Ferrets commonly come down with sneezing and coughing due to a variety of viral diseases such as influenza (also known as "the flu"). Flu viruses can be passed from ferrets to people and people to ferrets so it is important to practice good hygiene when working around a sick ferret (or around a sick human). Although most ferret upper respiratory infections are viral they may be very serious on their own.  Some viral infections may progressing to a bacterial infection and even pneumonia.  If your ferret is sneezing, coughing, has a runny or congested nose, has red or swollen eyes, loses its appetite, or becomes very sleepy and quiet, veterinary care is needed.

In fall of 2009 the H1N1 virus has been the subject of public health concerns.  As of November 2009, H1N1 virus has been confirmed in two ferrets, one in Oregon and one in Nebraska. The Oregon ferret recovered while the Nebraska ferret died.  As of Nov 4, 2009, there is no evidence that the ferrets passed the virus to people.

The American Veterinary Medical Association reminds pet owners that many viruses can pass between people and animals, so this was not an altogether unexpected event. Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital advised exotic pet owners to pay close attention to their pets, no matter what type of animal, and visit a veterinarian if there are any signs of illness.

For more information, view the AVMA’s H1N1 resources Web page http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus/

copyright 2009
Kevin Wright DVM
Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital
744 N Center Street
Mesa, AZ 85201
(480) 275 7017
info@azeah.com