Gastrointestinal Obstruction in Ferrets

When allowed to free roam outside its cage the naturally curious ferret may swallow small objects that attract its attention. These objects have the potential to become stuck in the stomach or small intestines, creating an obstruction. Vigilant “ferret proofing” of the home is a must, being especially careful to remove all rubber and foam items that ferrets are particularly fond of. Some of the reported objects swallowed include rubber bands, pieces of doorstops, rubber furniture protectors, erasers, pieces of rubber ball, and foam from pillows, sneaker insoles or rubber sandals.

Hairballs are another potential cause of gastrointestinal obstruction. Hairballs are compacted wads of the ferret’s fur, which may develop over time as a ferret grooms itself. Unlike cats, most ferrets will not vomit up hairballs, and these felts of compacted fur will eventually cause gastrointestinal upset.

Clinical signs of gastrointestinal obstruction vary with where the blockage occurs, either within the stomach or the intestines. Foreign bodies in the stomach may just sit within the stomach, causing irritation, or may completely obstruct outflow to the small intestine. Due to the narrow diameter of the small intestine, many foreign bodies in this location cause a complete obstruction.

When a complete obstruction occurs, the ferret will become acutely ill. Severe listlessness, lack of appetite, vomiting, absence of stools or dark, tarry stools may all be seen. The ferret may have abdominal pain and nausea demonstrated by increased salivation, grinding of the teeth, pawing at the mouth, or remaining in a hunched position. With a partial obstruction the clinical signs may be more subtle and prolonged. The ferret with a partial obstruction may show any of the clinical signs described above, or may demonstrate only intermittent teeth grinding, dark, tarry stools, and a decreased appetite and level of activity. Obvious weight loss and dehydration may occur within several days to a week.

Any ferret with signs of gastrointestinal distress should see us immediately. We will start with a thorough history and physical examination. Hairballs and foreign bodies may or may not be palpable (felt) upon abdominal exam. X-rays may or may not show a foreign body depending on its size and physical makeup (rubber unfortunately does not show up). A Barium series may be recommended to outline the intestinal tract and aid in identification of a blockage or foreign body. If a gastrointestinal foreign body with suspected obstruction is diagnosed, surgical removal is advised. Once the foreign body or hairball has become lodged and causes illness, few ferrets are able to pass the object on their own. Delaying treatment in the hopes that the ferret will pass the obstruction can increase the risk of death.

For hairball prevention, feline hairball remedy is recommended, given two to three times weekly. Brush the fur coat regularly and change bedding frequently to decrease the amount of loose hair. To prevent accidental foreign body ingestion: monitor playtime and offer only “ferret safe” toys. Ferret proof the house by keeping soft rubber household items out of the naturally curious ferret’s reach.