pocket pets/exotics

Question 1

A ferret comes in with bilateral symmetrical alopecia, swollen vulva, and excessive mounting, and posterior weakness, what do you tell the owner?

Answer 1

Your ferret has hyperadrenocorticism which is common and treatable in ferrets. The clinical signs are a result of hyperestrogenism as a result of an adrenal tumor. The most effective treatment is an adrenelectomy or alternatively lupron

Question 2

a 5 year old ferret presents with hypoglycemia and neurologic signs, how do you dx and treat?

Answer 2

I suspect an insulinoma and need to confirm whipples triad: low fasting glucose level, relief of symptoms with feeding and neuro signs of hypoglycemia. Treatment includes removing the pancreas but recurrence is high