Ferret Allergies

Ferrets, or polecats, are popular pets with very specific health needs. Ferret owners need to be aware of what substances ferrets are allergic to.

Bedding

Ferrets should never be housed on cedar or pine wood shavings because they are allergic to the wood's oils. This can cause breathing problems, according to Triangle Ferret Lovers.

Painkillers

Ferrets are highly allergic to acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) and naxoproxen (Aleve) according to Dr. Jill A Richardson, DVM of the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. These common medications can easily kill ferrets.

Detergents

Some ferrets may become allergic to the detergent used to clean clothes, blankets or any fabric that the ferret comes into contact with, according to "Ferrets for Dummies." The ferret will scratch until it is bald.

Food

Individual ferrets can be allergic to certain foods, including vegetables, fruits, raisins, egg whites and canned tuna. Ferrets with food allergies vomit and have loose stools, according to Ferret Aid Society.

Significance

Veterinarians may not know about what ferrets are allergic to if they do not regularly have ferrets as patients.

References

• Traingle Ferret Lovers: Cedar/Pine Toxicity
• Texas Ferret: Tips for a Poison Safe Household"; Dr. Jill A Richardson, DVM
• "Ferrets for Dummies"; Kim Schilling and Suasan Brown; 2007

Resources

• Ferret Universe: Ferret (Mustela Furo)
• Ferrets Magazine Online: Ferret News
• National Ferret Rescue: The "Spooktacular 80" Rescue in Michigan