Ferret Eye Infection
Ferrets can suffer from a variety of eye conditions, diseases and ailments. The most common conditions include allergies, trauma, cataracts, glaucoma and retinal atrophy. While many of these conditions can lead to eventual blindness, ferrets rely on their sense of smell and ability to feel with whiskers and nose more than their sight. Most ferrets have few problems adapting to blindness.
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Allergies
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Allergies cause a ferret's eyes to water and tear. The most common cause of allergies is the litter box. Avoid using dusty litters or cedar or pine chips.
Trauma
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Because ferrets are small and like to explore they are prone to eye injuries, usually from being poked with a foreign object. Ferretproof your home and the ferret's cage by making sure there are no protruding wires, nails or other objects.
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Cataracts
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Cataracts are more common in older ferrets and most likely caused by aging. Juvenile cataracts are hereditary. Cataracts may be corrected by surgery but eventually lead to blindness.
Glaucoma
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Glaucoma is caused by changes in eye pressure, but it can be difficult to diagnose in ferrets. Usually not caught until later stages of disease.
Retinal Atrophy
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Retinal atrophy occurs when vision starts out normally and gradually fades over time. Eventually the pupil becomes fixed and no longer responds to light.
Treatment and Adaptation
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At the first sign of any eye condition, take your ferret to the veterinarian. Eye drops can help relieve pressure and may help correct minor eye conditions. Ferrets often adapt easily to blindness by exploring their worlds with their noses and whiskers. Keep items in the cage and the home the same to keep ferrets from getting confused.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sean McGrath
