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Basic Approach to Veterinary Care of Ferrets. FERRETS, RABBITS, AND RODENTS 2020. [PMCID: PMC7258701 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-48435-0.00002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The approach to preventive medicine and basic veterinary care in ferrets is very similar to that used in dogs and cats. Special equipment needs are minimal, and pet ferrets can be easily incorporated into a general small animal practice. This chapter describes the unique aspects of handling, restraint, and clinical and treatment techniques used in ferrets.
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Abstract
Companion ferrets need to be vaccinated against 2 viral diseases that cause neurologic illness: canine distemper and rabies. Although not common in ferrets, both viruses are fatal in ferrets and rabies virus is also fatal in humans. In this article, we provide a basic review of the 2 diseases, highlighting key neurologic concerns. We also review and update current vaccine concerns from a practitioner's perspective, including available vaccines, vaccine schedule recommendations, vaccine reactions, and risk assessment. Last, we mention the ferret and its use in cutting-edge vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Wade
- Specialized Care for Avian & Exotic Pets, 10882 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031, USA.
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Morrisey JK, Johnston MS. Ferrets. EXOTIC ANIMAL FORMULARY 2018. [PMCID: PMC7152062 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-44450-7.00011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Garner MM, Ramsell K, Schoemaker NJ, Sidor IF, Nordhausen RW, Bolin S, Evermann JF, Kiupel M. Myofasciitis in the Domestic Ferret. Vet Pathol 2016; 44:25-38. [PMID: 17197621 DOI: 10.1354/vp.44-1-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Since late 2003, an inflammatory disease of muscle and fascia has been diagnosed in several ferrets at Northwest ZooPath, and this report describes the condition in 17 ferrets. It is a disease of young ferrets, characterized by rapid onset of clinical signs, high fever, neutrophilic leukocytosis, treatment failure, and death (or euthanasia). Gross lesions include atrophy of skeletal muscle; red and white mottling and dilatation of the esophagus; and splenomegaly. Histologically, moderate to severe suppurative to pyogranulomatous inflammation is in the skeletal muscle and the fascia at multiple sites, including esophagus, heart, limbs, body wall, head, and lumbar regions. Myeloid hyperplasia of spleen and/or bone marrow also is a prominent feature. Ultrastructural lesions include mitochondrial swelling, intracellular edema, disruption of myofibrils and Z bands. Bacterial and viral cultures, electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction were negative for a variety of infectious agents. The clinical presentation and distribution of lesions suggests that polymyositis in domestic ferrets is likely a distinct entity. The etiopathogenesis if this condition is not known.
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Comparison of antibody response to a non-adjuvanted, live canarypox-vectored recombinant rabies vaccine and a killed, adjuvanted rabies vaccine in Eld's deer (Rucervus eldi thamin). J Zoo Wildl Med 2014; 45:315-20. [PMID: 25000692 DOI: 10.1638/2013-0171r1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Captive Eld's deer (Rucervus eldi thamin) were evaluated for the presence of rabies virus-neutralizing antibodies using a rapid fluorescent focus inhibition after vaccination with either a live canarypox-vectored recombinant rabies vaccine or a killed monovalent rabies vaccine. Twelve deer were vaccinated with 1.0 ml of killed, adjuvanted, monovalent rabies vaccine at 5-33 mo of age then annually thereafter, and 14 deer were vaccinated with 1.0 ml nonadjuvanted, live canarypox-vectored rabies vaccine at 3-15 mo of age then annually thereafter. Banked serum was available or collected prospectively from deer at 6 mo and 1 yr after initial vaccination, then collected annually. Rabies virus-neutralizing antibodies considered adequate (>0.5 IU/ml) were present in 20/34 samples vaccinated with canarypox-vectored rabies vaccine and in 12/14 samples vaccinated with killed adjuvanted rabies vaccine. Poor seroconversion was noted in deer less than 6 mo of age vaccinated with the canarypox-vectored rabies vaccine.
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Wagner RA, Bhardwaj N. Serum-Neutralizing Antibody Responses to Canine Distemper Virus Vaccines in Domestic Ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). J Exot Pet Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2012.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Barron HW, Rosenthal KL. Respiratory Diseases. FERRETS, RABBITS, AND RODENTS 2012. [PMCID: PMC7152247 DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-6621-7.00006-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Zehnder AM, Hawkins MG, Koski MA, Luff JA, Benak J, Lowenstine LJ, White SD. An unusual presentation of canine distemper virus infection in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo). Vet Dermatol 2009; 19:232-8. [PMID: 18547381 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3164.2008.00677.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A 4.5-year-old, male castrated ferret was examined with a 27-day history of severe pruritus, generalized erythema and scaling. Skin scrapings and a trichogram were negative for mites and dermatophyte organisms. A fungal culture of hair samples was negative. The ferret was treated presumptively for scabies and secondary bacterial and yeast infection with selamectin, enrofloxacin, fluconazole, diphenhydramine and a miconazole-chlorhexidine shampoo. The ferret showed mild improvement in clinical signs over the subsequent 3 weeks, but was inappetent and required supportive feeding and subcutaneous fluids by the owner. The ferret was then examined on an emergency basis at the end of 3 weeks (53 days following initial signs of illness) for severe blood loss from a haematoma over the interscapular region, hypotension and shock. The owners elected euthanasia due to a poor prognosis and deteriorating condition. On post-mortem examination intraepithelial canine distemper viral inclusions were identified systemically, and abundant canine distemper virus antigen was identified with immunohistochemical staining. It is important to note the prolonged course of disease along with the absence of respiratory and neurological signs because this differs from the classic presentation of canine distemper virus infection in ferrets. Canine distemper virus should remain a clinical suspicion for ferrets with skin lesions that do not respond to appropriate therapy, even in animals that were previously vaccinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Zehnder
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95614, USA
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Griffin DE, Oldstone MBA, von Messling V. Ferrets as a model for morbillivirus pathogenesis, complications, and vaccines. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2009; 330:73-87. [PMID: 19203105 PMCID: PMC7121116 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-70617-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The ferret is a standard laboratory animal that can be accommodated in most animal facilities. While not susceptible to measles, ferrets are a natural host of canine distemper virus (CDV), the closely related carnivore morbillivirus. CDV infection in ferrets reproduces all clinical signs associated with measles in humans, including the typical rash, fever, general immunosuppression, gastrointestinal and respiratory involvement, and neurological complications. Due to this similarity, experimental CDV infection of ferrets is frequently used to assess the efficacy of novel vaccines, and to characterize pathogenesis mechanisms. In addition, direct intracranial inoculation of measles isolates from subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) patients results in an SSPE-like disease in animals that survive the acute phase. Since the advent of reverse genetics systems that allow the targeted manipulation of viral genomes, the model has been used to evaluate the contribution of the accessory proteins C and V, and signalling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM)-binding to immunosuppression and overall pathogenesis. Similarly produced green fluorescent protein-expressing derivatives that maintain parental virulence have been instrumental in the direct visualization of systemic dissemination and neuroinvasion. As more immunological tools become available for this model, its contribution to our understanding of morbillivirus-host interactions is expected to increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane E. Griffin
- grid.21107.350000000121719311Department of Molecular Microbiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Michael B. A. Oldstone
- grid.214007.00000000122199231Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 N. Torrey Pines, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
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Abstract
This chapter familiarizes veterinarians with basic knowledge of ferret biology, medicine, surgery, and care. Ferrets have a long, slender body with short muscular legs, a long thin tail, small eyes, and short ears. The life span of the ferret is 5 to 8 years. Ferrets may be housed singly or in groups, inside or outside of a house. When kept outdoors, however, they must be protected from extreme weather. Ferrets have difficulty tolerating temperatures above 90°F or below 20°F, and appropriate precautions must be taken to prevent their exposure to these extremes. Ferrets are carnivorous and require a suitable diet. A diet that is high in good-quality animal protein and fat and low in complex carbohydrates and fiber is recommended. Ferrets are routinely immunized against canine distemper virus (CDV) and rabies virus. Ferrets are quite susceptible to CDV, and there is a 100% mortality rate in unvaccinated ferrets infected with CDV. When a new ferret is brought into the household, a quarantine period is recommended before introducing it to other animals, particularly other ferrets. The purpose of the quarantine period is to identify and prevent transmission of infectious disease potentially carried by the new ferret. The duration of this period allows for the development of any clinical signs in a seemingly healthy ferret following entrance into the new household.
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Viral, bacterial and mycotic diseases. FERRET HUSBANDRY, MEDICINE AND SURGERY 2007. [PMCID: PMC7155614 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-2827-4.50014-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
The domestic or European ferret (Mustela putorius furo) has been domesticated for thousands of years. Ferrets have been used for hunting and fur production, as pets, and as models in biomedical research. Despite the relatively small numbers used in the laboratory, ferrets have some unique applications including study of human influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-associated corona virus. They have served as models for peptic ulcer disease, carotenoid metabolism, cystic fibrosis, and drug emesis screening, among others. Most research ferrets are males, due to estrus-related health problems in females. They may be housed conventionally and are easy to care for when their biology and behavior are understood. Due to the small number of ferret suppliers, animals are often shipped long distances, requiring air transport and intermediate handlers. It is important to minimize shipment stress, especially with weanling and pregnant animals. Additional expertise is required for success with pregnant and whelping ferrets and for rearing of neonates. The animals have specific dietary requirements, and proper nutrition is key. Successful housing requires knowledge of ferret behaviors including social behavior, eating habits, a general inquisitive nature, and a species-typical need to burrow and hide. Regular handling is necessary to maintain well-being. A ferret health care program consists of physical examination, immunization, clinical pathology, and a working knowledge of common ferret diseases. Various research methodologies have been described, from basic procedures such as blood collection to major invasive survival surgery. Ferrets have a distinct niche in biomedical research and are hardy animals that thrive well in the laboratory.
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Frana TS, Elsken LA, Karli SA. Summary of adverse event reports for veterinary biologic products received by the USDA from 1999 through 2005. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2006; 229:1100-2. [PMID: 17014356 DOI: 10.2460/javma.229.7.1100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S Frana
- Center for Veterinary Biologics, USDA-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service-Veterinary Services, Ames, IA 50010, USA
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Woodward KN. Veterinary pharmacovigilance. Part 2. Veterinary pharmacovigilance in practice -- the operation of a spontaneous reporting scheme in a European Union country -- the UK, and schemes in other countries. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2005; 28:149-70. [PMID: 15842305 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.2005.00646.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Veterinary pharmacovigilance, as it operates in the European Union (EU), covers a very broad remit, including adverse effects in treated animals, exposed humans and the environment, and in addition, it extends to cover the violation of maximum residue limits. The mainstay of veterinary pharmacovigilance is the spontaneous reporting scheme working along side other systems such as those reporting on residues surveillance. One of the most well established schemes in the EU is that operating in the UK and this paper examines the evolution of that scheme and some of its findings, data from other countries, and information available from the literature. It also tentatively examines the ways that pharmacovigilance can be used for regulatory purposes, and the contribution from pharmacoepidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Woodward
- Schering-Plough Animal Health, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UK.
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Abstract
Distemper and rabies vaccination are highly recommended because of the almost invariable fatal outcome of these conditions. Vaccination should constitute an important part of a ferret's preventative medicine program. With the current and anticipated development and licensing of new vaccines, practitioners are invited to gain awareness of the latest vaccine information. Establishment of a practice vaccination protocol with regards to the site of administration of rabies and distemper vaccines is paramount to document any future abnormal tissue reactions. Influenza is the most common zoonotic disease that is seen in ferrets. Although it generally is benign in most ferrets, veterinarians must take this condition seriously. The characteristic continuous antigenic variation of this virus may lead to more virulent strains; the recent emergence of avian influenza virus outbreaks; and the increased susceptibility of elderly, young, and immunosuppressed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Langlois
- Médecine Zoologique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vétérinaire, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, C.P. 5000, St-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 7C6, Canada.
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Moore GE, Glickman NW, Ward MP, Engler KS, Lewis HB, Glickman LT. Incidence of and risk factors for adverse events associated with distemper and rabies vaccine administration in ferrets. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005; 226:909-12. [PMID: 15786992 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2005.226.909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine incidence of and risk factors for adverse events associated with distemper and rabies vaccine administration in ferrets. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. ANIMALS 3,587 ferrets that received a rabies or distemper vaccine between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2003. PROCEDURES Electronic medical records were searched for possible vaccine-associated adverse events. Adverse events were classified by attending veterinarians as nonspecific vaccine reactions, allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis. Patient information that was collected included age, weight, sex, cumulative number of distemper and rabies vaccinations received, clinical signs, and treatment. The association between potential risk factors and occurrence of an adverse event was estimated with logistic regression. RESULTS 30 adverse events were recorded. The adverse event incidence rates for administration of rabies vaccine alone, distemper vaccine alone, and rabies and distemper vaccines together were 0.51%, 1.00%, and 0.85%, respectively. These rates were not significantly different. All adverse events occurred immediately following vaccine administration and most commonly consisted of vomiting and diarrhea (52%) or vomiting alone (31%). Age, sex, and body weight were not significantly associated with occurrence of adverse events, but adverse event incidence rate increased as the cumulative number of distemper or rabies vaccinations received increased. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, only the cumulative number of distemper vaccinations received was significantly associated with the occurrence of an adverse event. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggest that in ferrets, the risk of vaccine-associated adverse events was primarily associated with an increase in the number of distemper vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- George E Moore
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2027, USA
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