Hyperoestrogenism - Ferret

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