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Created page with " Hyperoestrogenism also occurs in the female ferret if an entire jill remains unbred for an extended period of time. ===Jills=== Bilaterally symmetrical alopecia around the ven..."
Hyperoestrogenism also occurs in the female ferret if an entire jill remains unbred for an extended period of time.
===Jills===
Bilaterally symmetrical alopecia around the ventrum and tail, weight loss, pale mucous membranes, enlarged vulva and a serous or mucopurulent vaginal discharge.
===Jills===
History and clinical signs along with a PCV of less than 20% and depression of all blood lines is highly suggestive.
===Jills===
'''Ovariohysterectomy''' is the fastest way to remove the source of oestrogens, although intitial treatment is dictated by the PCV. A blood transfusion might have to be performed first.
In milder cases, '''hormone treatments''' such as proligestone can be used to induce ovulation. Signs of oestrus will abate within 10-11 days but it might take up to 4 months for the anaemia to resolve.
The '''prognosis''' depends on the length of time the jill has been in oestrus and the PCV on presentation. If it is above 25% the prognosis is good. If it is below 15% the outlook is poor and intensive treatment along with multiple blood transfusions will be necessary for several months.
Female ferrets should not remain in heat longer than a month and ovulation should be induced by mating or hormone therapy before this. Ovariohysterectomy at 6-8 months of age is recommended for jills that are not to be bred.
==References==
Hubrecht, R. (2010) '''The UFAW Handbook on the Care and Management of Laboratory and other Research Animals''', ''John Wiley and Sons''
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