Parasitic Diseases

Ferret Dermatology

“…1,11,13 Flea-bite hypersensitivity has been reported in ferrets. 14 The diagnosis is based on history and clinical signs. In case no fleas or flea excrements are found on dermatologic examination, the diagnosis is usually made based on response to treatment.…”

“…1B,C). 10,14,21 Animals are mostly asymptomatic, 21,22 but may show head shaking, pruritus, self-induced alopecia, periaural crusting, excoriations, and aural hematomas as a result of scratching. 23,24 With heavy infestations, secondary bacterial or yeast infections may occur, and neurological deficits can develop in sequela to otitis media or interna.…”

“…25,26 Rarely, mites are found in alternative locations, for example, the perineum, in which case the diagnosis is made by microscopic examination via a skin scrape. 14 Treatment comprises flushing and cleaning of the ear canal followed by topical treatment using selamectin (15-45 mg/ferret every 28 days) or imidacloprid 10%/moxidectin 1.0% 2 to 3 times every 14 days. 21,24,27,28 Subcutaneous ivermectin (0.4 mg/kg every 14 days) can also be used, but it is less effective than intraauricular ivermectin (0.4 mg/kg, diluted 1:10 in propylene glycol every 14 days), which can be used provided that the tympanic membrane is intact.…”

“…Treatment of in-contact ferrets, dogs, and cats, and the environment, is important to avoid reinfection. 14,23…”

“…26,31 Multiple superficial skin scrapes are indicated to increase the chance of detecting the mites, larvae, ova, and nymphs, although mites will occasionally be found upon examination of scabs that are broken into smaller pieces and treated with 10% potassium hydroxide. 14,33 Ivermectin (0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg subcutaneously every 7 to 14 days) use combined with treatment of in-contact animals, and environmental cleaning every 3 to 4 days, until eradication of the mites, is recommended. 14,26,31 Ferrets with the pedal form may benefit from warm-water soaks and trimming of affected claws, alongside treatment of secondary bacterial infections.…”