https://www.chewy.com/education/small-pet/ferret/canine-distemper-in-ferrets
*Ferrets are fun, curious, and full of energy. In the Ferret Education Hub, you’ll find expert tips on their dietary needs, litter training, enrichment, and health essentials. Whether you're new to ferrets or an experienced ferret parent, this is the place to start.
Canine distemper is a serious, often fatal viral infection affecting dogs, ferrets, and other members of the weasel family, as well as raccoons and kinkajous.
In ferrets, symptoms begin with fever, loss of appetite, eye irritation, and nasal discharge, followed by a rash that spreads from the chin to the nose, eyelids, and groin. As the disease progresses, ferrets develop crusted eye and nose discharge, thickened footpads, coughing, pneumonia, and eventually neurological symptoms like seizures, which are usually fatal.
Fortunately, the USDA approved Purevax ferret distemper vaccine provides safe and effective protection. Vaccination schedules vary by age, but generally include initial doses followed by yearly boosters.
While treatment options exist, including vitamin A and immune support, the prognosis remains poor, making prevention through vaccination essential.
Chewy editorial team is here to guide and support you in keeping your ferret safe, healthy, and thriving by helping you recognize the symptoms of canine distemper and understand the available treatment options.
