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Ferrets (Laboratory) - Pathology (view source)
Revision as of 16:34, 17 February 2011
, 16:34, 17 February 2011→Introduction
Ferrets (''Mustela putorius furo'') are thought to have been dometicated for over 2000 years and are descended from the wild European Polecat. Ferrets are often utilised in a laboratory setting as they are known to share many anatomical, metabolic and physiological features with humans. Therefore ferrets are often utilised in studies covering a broad subject matter including cardio-pulmonary, neurological and gastrointestinal research areas. Ferrets have been used as a model for studies into ischemia and ion exchange in the heart, influenza, neurological injury and gastric infections.
Ferrets (''Mustela putorius furo'') are thought to have been dometicated for over 2000 years and are descended from the wild European Polecat. Ferrets are often utilised in a laboratory setting as they are known to share many anatomical, metabolic and physiological features with humans. Therefore ferrets are often utilised in studies covering a broad subject matter including cardio-pulmonary, neurological and gastrointestinal research areas. Ferrets have been used as a model for studies into ischemia and ion exchange in the heart, influenza, neurological injury and gastric infections.
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As ferrets are a social, curious and intelligent species, they often require a higher level of husbandry than other species such as hamsters or mice. Laboratory ferrets will require a complex and stimulating environment with enrichments that include tubes and boxes that are able to simulate a burrow. Ferrets have a strong drive to explore and therefore they will investigate all aspects of their enclosure. Enclosures therefore need to be well designed and strong as ferrets will exploit any opportunity to escape.
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