by Cindy Abbate

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: March 06, 2009

As your furry friend ages it's likely you'll encounter one or more of the problems advancing years bring with them. You can counteract some of these by giving him a special natural diet (referred to as duck soup) to supplement his kibble. They can be found on the internet or in the book "Ferrets for Dummies" by Kim Schilling. Always clear your choice with your vet before engaging.

One of the problems you'll hear a lot about is hind-end weakness. This is really a catch all phrase since the condition isn't a disease within itself but a symptom of an underlying cause. It could range from spinal problems to heart issues to AD (an auto-immune type disease more common in older ferrets). Hind-end weakness is associated with many issues probably because of the animal's general shape. It's long body places the back legs farthest from the vital organs which work first to keep the essential parts of the body operating. You'll need to go to your vet for diagnosis and hopefully a treatment program.

In the meantime make things easier on your ferret. If he's having considerable difficulty in his two story cage consider a one story with gently sloping rams.. If he has ferret friends try to find one big enough for the lot of them. Moving will be stressful enough for him on its own and you don't want to add to it by separating him from his companions.

Ferrets, like humans, can suffer from hearing and sight loss. However most animals tolerate these well. Just try not to move things around in the rooms your pet is allowed to explore. If you have a secluded area rub herbs on the corners of furniture to help your ferret "see" with his nose.

Other things you can do for your pet is examine his teeth more frequently. He may need a softer diet due to his chompers wearing down. However this will lead to increased tarter build up and eventually gum disease. If has an accumulation of the hard greenish-brown stuff take him to the vet for a cleaning. You can help prevent this by brushing his teeth about twice a week.

Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner so as not to dry out his skin and hair.

In general your pet needs you now more than ever to look after him and give him attention. Ferrets rarely live past eight years so signs of aging may present themselves as early as four years. It's always wise to keep an eye on these critters as they have a seemingly unfair list of ailments associated with them. But as they age it necessary to go the extra mile and watch their intake of food, if they're having a problem eliminating and anything else that may strike you as out of the ordinary. While a yearly vet visit is advisable for your ferret regardless of age you might want to go a bit deeper (blood screens, etc..) to probe for any lurking problems.

Enjoy your animal for as long as he's able to enjoy his life. Then let him go. It's never easy but when it's time accepting the inevitable is the last gift you can give your friend.

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