Distemper

• This disease is caused by the same virus that causes distemper in dogs, canine distemper virus (CDV).  Infection results from direct or indirect exposure to an infected dog or ferret.  This disease is 100% fatal in ferrets.   
• Clinical signs may include: fever, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, depression, poor appetite, rash on chin/lips/belly, hardening of footpads and nose, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, incoordination, paralysis, and death.   
• Vaccination schedule  
• Ferrets < 14 weeks: begin vaccinating at 6-8 weeks of age and repeat every 3 weeks until 14 weeks of age.  Booster every year.  
• Ferrets ≥ 14 weeks: give 2 doses 3 weeks apart.  Booster every year.

Rabies

• This virus is shed in the saliva of wild and domestic mammals and is often transmitted through a bite wound from an infected animal.   
• Clinical signs may include: changes in behavior, anxiety, depression, seizures, incoordination, paralysis, and death.   
• This virus is a human health hazard.  
• Vaccination schedule 
• Receive first vaccination at 12 weeks of age.  Booster every year.

Vaccine facts:

• Distemper and Rabies vaccinations are recommended for all ferrets regardless of lifestyle as both diseases are 100% fatal.       
• There may be a slight swelling at the injection site(s) and tenderness for a few days following vaccination.  If swelling progresses, is warm to the touch, and painful this may be an indication of a vaccine-induced infection (rare).  Please call us at the number above if this occurs.      
• Occasionally a hypersensitivity reaction to a vaccine may occur resulting in any number of the following: drooling, redness of the skin, “hives” (numerous raised bumps on the skin), vomiting, and diarrhea.  Hypersensitivity reactions will typically occur shortly following vaccination so it is recommended that you observe your ferret for a few hours following vaccination.  Please call us at the number above if this occurs and be prepared to bring the ferret in for a recheck and treatment.