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Seasonal Shedding
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To prepare for warm weather, ferrets begin shedding their thick winter coats in the early weeks of spring. This seasonal shedding is sometimes accompanied by weight loss. Although seasonal shedding tends to be a rather gradual process in most ferrets, some might have excessive hair loss in short periods of time. A fast process of shedding often results in a patchy appearance, with only the yellow undercoat covering the ferret's skin.
Hormonal Imbalances
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Change in hormone levels is known to cause hair loss in ferrets. Examples of conditions that can cause hormonal imbalance include the heat cycle and adrenal gland problems.
When hormones play a role in ferret hair loss, a very distinctive pattern is present. Hair begins to become thin at the base of the tail and the inside of the legs, with almost the entire body eventually affected. The tip of the tail and head are typically not affected.
Diet
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Improper diet can cause hair loss in ferrets. Feeding a pet foods that lack the necessary amount of fats and protein quickly creates a deficiency, which can result in sudden hair loss and other more serious symptoms and complications. Allergic reaction to foods is also likely to cause this symptom.
Tail Alopecia
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Tail alopecia, which causes a ferret's tail to appear similar to that of a rat, is not linked with any known cause. Symptoms associated with tail alopecia include hair loss on the tail, as well as the appearance of dry and scaly skin and blackheads.
Tail alopecia typically takes place during spring shedding. Although the hair will regrow with the full winter coat, it is likely that the cycle of tail hair loss in the spring will continue throughout the animal's life.
Additional Causes
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Ferrets can suffer hair loss associated with more serious conditions, including bacterial infections, immune system disorders and infestation of parasites such as fleas, ticks and mites. Allergic reactions caused by exposure to medications, grooming products such as shampoos, treats and even household cleaners might result in hair loss.
Considerations
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To receive a proper diagnosis and prevent possible complications caused by underlying conditions, it is necessary to seek veterinary help as soon as a ferret begins experiencing any amount of hair loss. Be sure to record all symptoms associated with the hair loss, and bring the list to the veterinarian's office.
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Why Do Ferrets Lose Hair?
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, in ferrets is a common issue that many owners of these pets face. Although this symptom is seen more often in spayed or neutered ferrets and those between age 3 and 7, ferrets of any age and condition can lose hair. This troublesome symptom is typically caused by one of a few underlying medical conditions.