Ferret Adrenal Disease Symptoms

Adrenal disease is one of the most common diseases among American pet ferrets. It is not known why domestic ferrets get adrenal gland disease, nor why it seems to be more prominent in American ferrets than European ferrets. Theories include genetics, exposure to UV light and side effects from being spayed or neutered at a young age. If left untreated, diseased adrenal glands can become cancerous and may even burst.

  1. Hair Loss

    • The most common early symptom of ferret adrenal disease is hair loss, especially on the tail. However, some ferrets may experience hair loss beginning at other areas of the body rather than the tail, including the bottom of the paws. Over time, hair loss spreads all over the body. This is not to be confused with a ferret’s usual molting at the beginning of spring, although any suspicious hair loss should be checked by a veterinarian, especially if the ferret is over 4 years old.

    Behavioral Changes

    • A ferret with adrenal disease will also change its temperament. Some become tired all the time. Others become more aggressive. Ferrets with their sexual organs intact often become hypersexual. However, even spayed and neutered ferrets will show sexual behaviors because the adrenal glands are pumping out high amounts of sex hormones. Male ferrets often hump other ferrets or inanimate objects, while the vulvas of females become swollen and may produce a discharge.

    Problems Urinating

    • Male ferrets with adrenal gland disease often develop an enlarged prostate. This will cause them to urinate more often, but in smaller quantities. The ferret may also appear uncomfortable or vocalize while staying in the urinating position, with little to no urine coming out. Female ferrets are far more prone to urinary tract infections when their vulvas are enlarged. They may dribble urine, cry out when urinating and urinate more frequently. Problems urinating may also lead to the ferret becoming more thirsty than usual.

    Coordination Problems

    • Although not as common as the previous three symptoms, another symptom of adrenal disease in ferrets is loss of muscle tone, especially in the hind legs. This leads to a staggering gait or severe problems walking. This is often a sign that the disease has progressed beyond the early stages. If a ferret has lost its appetite, this could worsen the loss of muscle tone.