Ferrets

Table 11-1.

Antimicrobial and Antifungal Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Amikacin	8-16 mg/kg SC, IM, IV divided q8-24h53	Potentially ototoxic and nephrotoxic
	10-15 mg/kg SC, IM q12h52
Amoxicillin	20 mg/kg PO, SC q12h52
	30 mg/kg PO q8h × 21 days16	Helicobacter; can use with metronidazole and bismuth subsalicylate
Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Clavamox, Zoetis)	13-25 mg/kg PO q8-12h52
	18.75 mg per jill PO q12h15	For treatment of E. coli induced mastitis
Amphotericin B	0.15 mg/kg IV 3×/wk × 2-4 mon25	Treatment of cryptococcosis
	0.25-1 mg/kg IV q24h or q48h until total dose of 7-25 mg has been given25
	0.4-0.8 mg/kg IV q7d52	Blastomycosis; monitor for azotemia; total dose 7-25 mg
Ampicillin	5-30 mg/kg SC, IM, IV q8-12h51,52
Azithromycin	5 mg/kg PO q24h60
Cefadroxil	15-20 mg/kg PO q12h52
Cefovecin (Convenia, Zoetis)	8 mg/kg SC q2-3d49	Second generation parenteral cephalosporin; long-acting antibiotic
Cephalexin	15-30 mg/kg PO q8-12h53
Cephaloridine	10-25 mg/kg SC, IM q24h × 5-7 days53	Dermatitis
Chloramphenicol	25-50 mg/kg PO, SC, IM, IV q12h53	14-day minimum for proliferative bowel disease
	50 mg/kg SC, IM q12h15	For treatment of mastitis
Ciprofloxacin	10-30 mg/kg PO q24h53	Mix 500 mg tablet in 10 mL water (50 mg/mL); flavor for improved acceptance
Clarithromycin	12.5 mg/kg PO q8-12h × 14 days44	Helicobacter; use with ranitidine bismuth citrate
	50 mg/kg PO q24h or divided q12h × 14 days51	Helicobacter; use with omeprazole (or ranitidine) and metronidazole
Clindamycin	5.5-10 mg/kg PO q12h53	Anaerobic infections; bone and dental disease
	12.5 mg/kg PO q12h53	Toxoplasmosis
Cloxacillin	10 mg/kg PO, IM, IV q6h65
Doxycycline	10 mg/kg PO q12h37	May help with ferret systemic coronavirus infection
Enrofloxacin (Baytril, Bayer)	5 mg/kg PO, IM q12h15	For treatment of mastitis
	5-10 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q12h53	IM for short term (generally 1 injection); injectable form can be given PO in palatable liquid; liquid for PO can also be compounded
	10-20 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q12-24h52
Erythromycin	10 mg/kg PO q6h52
	220 g/ton feed53	Controlling Campylobacter diarrhea in large groups
Fluconazole	50 mg/kg PO q12h53
Gentamicin	2 mg/kg PO q12h × 10-14 days21	Parenteral form can be given PO; proliferative colitis that is nonresponsive to chloramphenicol12,21
	2-5 mg/kg SC, IM, IV q12-24h52	If given IV, dilute with saline and administer over 20 min
Griseofulvin	25 mg/kg PO q12-24h53	Refractory dermatomycosis; use with lime-sulfur dips q7d
Itraconazole	1.5 mg/kg PO q24h41	Invasive nasal cryptococcosis
	10 mg/kg PO q12h20	Histoplasmosis
	10-20 mg/kg PO q24h67	Cryptococcosis
	25-33 mg/kg PO q24h25,72
Ketoconazole	10-50 mg/kg PO q12-24h39
Lime sulfur	Dip q7d52	Dermatomycosis; see griseofulvin
Lincomycin	11 mg/kg PO q8h53
Metronidazole	15-20 mg/kg PO q12h52	Anaerobic infections; can use with amoxicillin and bismuth subsalicylate for Helicobacter
Neomycin	10-20 mg/kg PO q6h52	Potential nephrotoxicity and neuromuscular blockage
Netilmicin (Netromycin, Schering)	6-8 mg/kg SC, IM, IV q24h53	Severe staphylococcal infections
Nitazoxanide (Alinia, Romark Laboratories)	5 mg/kg PO q12h25	Treatment of cryptosporidiosis
Oxytetracycline	20 mg/kg PO q8h52
Penicillin G (sodium or potassium)	20,000 U/kg IM q12h39 40,000 U/kg SC, IM q24h52
Pentamidine isethionate	3-4 mg/kg SC q48h25	Pneumocystis pneumonia
Pyremethamine	0.5 mg/kg PO q12h25	Combine with trimethoprim sulfa (30 mg/kg PO q12h) and folic acid (3-5 mg/kg PO q24h) for treatment of toxoplasmosis
Sulfadimethoxine	25 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q24h53
	30-50 mg/kg PO q12-24h52
Sulfamethazine	1-5 mg/mL drinking water52
Sulfasoxazole	50 mg/kg PO q8h53
Sulfathalidine	Mix in food at dose of 1 g/day/kg body weight12	Opioid useful for management of Salmonella and to reduce shedding in colonies
Tetracycline	20-25 mg/kg PO q8-12h52
Trimethoprim/sulfa	5 mg/kg PO q24h15	Pyelonephritis
	15 mg/kg IV q12h8
	15-30 mg/kg PO, SC q12h52	Dosage amount of combined drugs
Tylosin (Tylan, Elanco)	5-10 mg/kg PO, SC, IM, IV q12h51,52

Table 11-2.

Antiparasitic Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Amitraz (Mitaban, Upjohn)	0.0125% topical solution q7d × 3 treatments, then 0.0375% q7d × 3 treatments52	Demodecosis secondary to other illness
	0.03% topical solution to affected area q7d × 3-6 treatments53	Demodecosis; use full concentration
Amprolium	19 mg/kg PO q24h52	Coccidiosis
	100 mg/kg PO in food or water for 7 days25	Isospora
Carbaryl powder (5%)	Topical q7d × 3-6 treatments52	Ectoparasites
Decoquinate	0.5 mg/kg PO for at least 2 wk60	Coccidiosis; larger groups of ferrets
Fenbendazole	20 mg/kg PO q24h × 5 days52
	50 mg/kg PO q24h × 30 days52	Mesocestoides infection
Fipronil (Frontline, Merial)	1 pump of spray or ⅕-½ of cat pipette topical q60d52	Flea adulticide
	0.2-0.4 mL topically q30d52
Imidacloprid (Advantage, Bayer)	10 mg/kg topically36	Flea treatment; PD
	0.1-0.4 mL topically q30d39,52	Flea adulticide; use small cat/kitten vial
Imidacloprid/moxidectin (Advantage Multi, Bayer)	1.9-3.3 μg/kg topically q30d60	Heartworm prevention
Ivermectin	0.02 mg/kg PO, SC q30d69	Heartworm prevention
	0.05 mg/kg PO q30d until negative testing69	Recommended treatment for heartworms; give prednisolone (1 mg/kg/day) concurrently
	0.05-0.3 mg/kg PO q24h for 1 mo after negative skin scraping6	Demodecosis
	0.2-0.5 mg/kg SC q14d × 3 treatments52	Sarcoptic mange
	0.4 mg/kg PO, SC, repeat in 14-28 days52	Ear mites, ticks
	0.5-1 mg/kg in ears, repeat in 14 days52	Ear mites; half dose in each ear; treat cats and dogs in house concurrently
Lime sulfur	Dip 1:40 dilution q7d × 6 wk21	Demodectic mange
Lufenuron (Program, Novartis)	10 mg/kg SC25	Flea larvicide
	30 mg/kg PO in food25
	30-45 mg/kg PO q30d52
Mebendazole	50 mg/kg PO q12h × 2 days25	Nematodes
Melarsomine dihydrochloride (Immiticide, Merial)	2.5 mg/kg IM once, repeat in 30 days with 2 treatments 24 hr apart52	Heartworm adulticide; less commonly used; use prednisone (1 mg/kg q24h × 4 mo) following treatment
Metronidazole	15-20 mg/kg PO q12h × 14 days52	Gastrointestinal protozoa
Milbemycin oxime (Interceptor, Novartis)	1.15-2.33 mg/kg PO q30d52	Heartworm preventive
Moxidectin	0.17 mg SC once60	Heartworm adulticide
Paromomycin	165 mg/kg PO q12h × 5 days60	Cryptosporidiosis; possible treatment; use with caution, severe renal disease possible
Piperazine citrate	50-100 mg/kg PO q14d53	Intestinal nematodes
Praziquantel (Droncit, Bayer)	5-10 mg/kg PO, SC, repeat in 1053-14d52	Cestodes
	25 mg/kg PO × 3 days60	Trematodes
Pyrantel pamoate	4.4 mg/kg PO, repeat in 14 days52
Pyrethrins	Topical q7d prn52	Fleas; use products safe for puppies and kittens
Pyrimethamine	0.5 mg/kg PO q12h25	Toxoplasmosis; antiprotozoal
Selamectin (Revolution, Zoetis)	6-18 mg/kg topically51, 52, 53,60	Ectoparasites (fleas, lice, most mites except Demodex)
	15 mg topically q30d14	Ear mites, fleas; PD
	45 mg/ferret topically50	Ear mites; although this dose has been reported in a PD study, it appears that lower (safer?) doses (see previous) are also quite effective
Sulfadimethoxine	20-50 mg/kg PO q24h7	Coccidia
	50 mg/kg PO, then 25 mg/kg q24h × 9 days52
	0.5 mL/kg of a 12.5% solution mixed into drinking water56	For treatment of enteric coccidiosis in a large group of ferrets
Thiabendazole/dex-amethasone/neomycin (Tresaderm, Merial)	2 drops in each ear q24h × 7 days, off 7 days, on 7 days55	Ear mites

Table 11-3.

Chemical Restraint/Anesthetic Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Acepromazine	—	See ketamine for combination
	0.1-0.25 mg/kg SC, IM52	Preanesthetic; light sedation
	0.1-0.5 mg/kg SC, IM33	Rapid onset of sedation if given IM; doses above 0.2 mg/kg are associated with prolonged recovery times and hypothermia
	0.2-0.5 mg/kg SC, IM52	Tranquilization
Alfaxalone (Alfaxan, Jurox)	5 mg/kg IV18	Anesthetic induction; PD
	5-15 mg/kg IM28	Sedative
Atipamezole (Antisedan, Zoetis)	0.4 mg/kg IM53 1 mg/kg SC, IV, IP52	Dexmedetomidine and medetomidine reversal; give same volume SC, IV, IP as medetomidine or dexmedetomidine (5 × medetomidine or 10 × dexmedetomidine dose in mg)
Atropine	0.04-0.05 mg/kg SC, IM, IV52	Preanesthetic; bradycardia; hypersalivation
Bupivacaine	1 mg/kg epidurally52	Epidural anesthesia; analgesia
	1-1.5 mg/kg SC infiltrate27	Local anesthesia; lasts several hours
Butorphanol	Loading dose 0.05-0.2 mg/kg; maintenance 0.1-0.4 mg/kg/hr21	Constant-rate infusion (CRI) for perioperative analgesia; see ketamine, midazolam, and tiletamine/zolazepam for combinations
Dexmedetomidine (Dexdomitor, Zoetis)	0.04-0.1 mg/kg IM49	α2 agonist similar to medetomidine; not commonly used because of bradycardia and other side effects
Diazepam	—	See ketamine for combinations; drug is slowly and incompletely absorbed following IM administration
	0.5 mg/kg PO, IM, IV q6-8 h59	Smooth muscle relaxation in urethral obstruction cases
	0.5-1.5 mg/kg/h constant-rate infusion3	Seizure control
	1 mg/animal IV52	Seizure control; 1-2 boluses
	2 mg/kg SC, IM25	Tranquilization; seizure control
Enflurane	2% maintenance52	Anesthesia
Etomidate	1 mg/kg IV27	Induction and intubation of critically ill animal
Fentanyl citrate/fluanisone (Hypnorm, Janssen)	0.3 mg/kg IM52	Anesthesia; not available in the United States
Fentanyl/droperidol (Innovar-Vet, Schering Plough)	0.15 mL/kg IM52	Minor surgical procedures; deep sedation
Glycopyrrolate	0.01 mg/kg IM52	Preanesthetic; bradycardia; hypersalivation
Isoflurane	To effect32	Inhalant anesthesia
Ketamine	—	Ketamine combinations follow
	10-20 mg/kg IM52	Tranquilization; induction
	30-60 mg/kg IM52	Anesthesia; when used alone, high doses cause poor muscle relaxation, rough recoveries, and convulsions; not recommended as a sole agent
Ketamine (K)/acepromazine (A)	(K) 20-35 mg/kg + (A) 0.2-0.35 mg/kg SC, IM52	Anesthesia
Ketamine (K)/diazepam (D)	(K) 10-20 mg/kg + (D) 1-2 mg/kg IM52	Anesthesia; poor analgesia61
	0.1 mL/kg IV52	Induction; will allow intubation with premedication; use equal volumes of (K) at 100 mg/mL and (D) at 5 mg/mL
Ketamine (K)/dexmedetomidine (D)	(K) 5 mg/kg IM + (D) 0.03 mg/kg IM52	Medetomidine no longer commercially available; dexmedetomidine at half the dose of medetomidine may be effective
Ketamine (K)/medetomidine (M) or dexmedetomidine (D)/butorphanol (B)	(K) 5 mg/kg + (M) 0.08 mg/kg or (D) 0.04 mg/kg + (B) 0.2 mg/kg IM32	Medetomidine no longer commercially available; induction or total injectable anesthesia; allows for intubation; 60-80 min of surgical plane of anesthesia
Ketamine (K)/midazolam (M)	(K) 5-10 mg/kg + (M) 0.25-0.5 mg/kg IV51
	0.1 mL/kg IV52	Induction; use equal volumes of (K) at 100 mg/mL and (M) at 5 mg/mL
Ketamine (K)/xylazine (X)	(K) 10-25 mg/kg + (X) 1-2 mg/kg IM52	Anesthesia; avoid in sick animals;39 may result in cardiac arrhythmias61
Lidocaine	1-2 mg/kg total SC27	Local anesthesia; use 1%-2% solution; lasts 15-30 min
	0.5-1.0 mg/kg IV q12h52
Midazolam (Versed, Roche)	—	See ketamine for combination; can be reversed with flumazenil at same volume
	0.25-0.3 mg/kg SC, IM25	Mild sedation; premedication
	0.25-0.5 mg/kg SC, IM, IV53
Midazolam (M)/butorphanol (B)	(M) 0.2 mg/kg + (B) 0.2 mg/kg IM10,58	Good sedation; premedication for minor procedures (i.e., ultrasonography, endoscopy, etc.); if needed, can follow with gas anesthesia or IV propofol; can reverse midazolam with flumazenil
Naloxone (Narcan, Dupont)	0.01-0.03 mg/kg IM, IV52 0.04 mg/kg SC, IM, IV52	Reversal of opioids; up to 1 mg/kg may be used
Propofol	1-3 mg/kg IV32	Induction when premedicants are used; bradypnea or apnea and hypoxia common; intubation and oxygen insufflation is recommended
	2-10 mg/kg IV25	Induction
Sevoflurane	To effect51	Inhalant anesthesia
Tiletamine/zolazepam (Telazol, Fort Dodge)	—	Tiletamine/zolazepam combinations follow
	12-22 mg/kg IM52	Minor surgical procedures at 22 mg/kg; recovery may be prolonged at higher doses; poor muscle relaxation; rarely indicated
Tiletamine/zolazepam (T)/xylazine (X)	3 mg/kg (T) + 3 mg/kg (X) IM34	Small injection volume; rapid and smooth induction; allows for endotracheal intubation
Tiletamine/zolazepam (T)/xylazine (X)/butorphanol (B)	1.5 mg/kg (T) + 1.5 mg/kg (X) + 0.2 mg/kg (B)34	Small injection volume; rapid and smooth induction; allows for endotracheal intubation; analgesia; profound cardiorespiratory depression necessitates oxygen insufflation
Tiletamine/zolazepam (T)/dexmedetomidine (D)/butorphanol (B)	0.03 mL/kg IM of prepared solution (see comment)32	Telazol powder is reconstituted with 2.5 mL of dexmedetomidine and 2.5 mL of butorphanol (10 mg/mL) to form final volume of 5 mL
Xylazine	—	See ketamine and tiletamine/zolazepam for combinations
	0.1-0.5 mg/kg SC, IM53	Tranquilization; may cause hypotension, bradycardia, and arrhythmias; use with care in sick animals
	2 mg/kg IM33	Rapid immobilization within 3-5 minutes; associated with arrhythmias, hypotension, bradycardia
Yohimbine (Yobine, Lloyd)	0.2-0.5 mg/kg IV52	Xylazine reversal
	0.5-1 mg/kg IM52,53

Table 11-4.

Analgesic Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)	0.5-22 mg/kg PO q8-24h52	Analgesia; antiinflammatory; antipyretic; cannot be compounded as molecule is unstable in aqueous solution
Amantadine	3-5 mg/kg PO49	May potentiate other analgesics via NMDA antagonist action
Bupivicaine	1-2 mg/kg SC32
Buprenorphine	12 μg/kg epidurally21	Epidural analgesia/anesthesia
	0.04 mg/kg IM q4-6h29	PK
	0.01-0.05 mg/kg oral transmucosal, SC, IM, IV q6-12h32,52	Analgesia
Butorphanol	—	See ketamine, midazolam, and tiletamine/zolazepam (see Table 11-3) for anesthetic combinations
	0.05-0.5 mg/kg SC, IM q8-12h32,52	Analgesia; lower end of dose may be too low for clinical effect; higher end of dose range may cause profound sedation
	0.3 mg/kg SC q2-4h29	PK
Carprofen (Rimadyl, Zoetis)	1-5 mg/kg PO q12-24h21,52	Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory; use caution in animals with gastritis or enteritis
	4 mg/kg SC32
Fentanyl citrate	1.25-5 μg/kg/h IV via constant-rate infusion21,49	Postoperative analgesia
	10-30 μg/kg/h IV via constant-rate infusion21,49	Perioperative analgesia; administer after loading dose of 5-10 μg/kg IV
Flunixin meglumine (Banamine, Schering)	0.3-2 mg/kg IV, PO, SC q12-24h52,53	Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory; use caution in animals with gastritis or enteritis; use caution in using drug more than 5 days continuously; mix injectable form with palatable syrup for PO
	2.5 mg IM q12h14
Gabapentin	3-5 mg/kg PO q8-24h52	Neurotropic pain; may cause sedation at higher doses
Hydromorphone	0.1 mg/kg SC q1-2h29	Opioid; PK
	0.1-0.2 mg/kg SC, IM, IV39
Ibuprofen	1 mg/kg PO q12-24h51	Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory
Ketamine	0.1-0.4 mg/kg/h IV via constant-rate infusion21	Postoperative analgesia
	0.3-1.2 mg/kg/h IV via constant-rate infusion21	Perioperative analgesia; administer after 2-5 mg/kg IV loading dose
Ketoprofen (Ketofen, Fort Dodge)	1-3 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q24h53	Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory; use caution with gastritis or enteritis or if using > 5 days
Meloxicam	0.1-0.3 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q24h24,25,27	Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory; monitor liver and kidney values
Meperidine (Demerol, Winthrop-Breon)	5-10 mg/kg SC, IM, IV q2-4h25	Analgesia
Morphine	0.1 mg/kg epidurally21	Analgesia
	0.2-5 mg/kg SC, IM q2-6h52	SC administration of 1 mg/kg associated with emesis, excitability, and ptyalism39
Nalbuphine (Nubain, Endo Labs)	0.5-1.5 mg/kg IM, IV q2-3h25	Analgesia
Oxymorphone	0.05-0.2 mg/kg SC, IM, IV q8-12 h27,52	Analgesia
Pentazocine (Talwin, Sanofi Winthrop)	5-10 mg/kg IM q4h52	Analgesia
Tramadol	5-10 mg/kg PO q12-2425	Analgesia; synergistic with NSAIDs

Table 11-5.

Cardiopulmonary Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Aminophylline	4-6.6 mg/kg PO, IM, IV q12h52	Bronchodilator
Amlodipine (Norvasc, Pfizer)	0.2-0.4 mg/kg PO q12h28	Vasodilator
Atenolol (Tenormin, ICI)	3.125-6.25 mg/kg PO q24h35,52 6.25 mg/animal PO q24h52	β-adrenergic blocker for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Atropine	0.02-0.04 mg/kg SC, IM52	Bradycardia
	0.1 mg/kg intratracheal52
Benazepril	0.25-0.5 mg/kg PO q24h35,68	Vasodilator; less nephrotoxic than enalapril
Captopril (Capoten, Squibb)	$⅛$ of 12.5 mg tablet/animal PO q48h52	Vasodilator; starting dose, gradually increase to q12-24h; can cause lethargy
Digoxin (Cardoxin, Evsco)	0.005-0.01 mg/kg PO q12-24h52	Positive inotrope for dilated cardiomyopathy; monitor serum levels
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Marion Merrill Dow)	1.5-7.5 mg/kg PO q12h35,52	Calcium channel blocker for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Dobutamine	0.01 mL/animal IV prn28	Hypotension
Doxapram	1-2 mg/kg IV52	Respiratory stimulant
	5-11 mg/kg IV52
Enalapril (Enacard, Merck)	0.25-0.5 mg/kg PO q24-48h35,52	Vasodilator for dilated cardiomyopathy; do not use with concurrent renal disease
Epinephrine	0.02 mg/kg SC, IM, IV, intratracheal43	Cardiac arrest; anaphylactic reactions (including vaccine reactions)
	0.2 mg/kg IV, intracardiac, IO25
	0.2-0.4 mg/kg diluted in 0.9% NaCl25 intratracheal	Administer during cardiopulmonary arrest
Furosemide	1-4 mg/kg PO, SC, IM, IV q8-12h52	Diuretic; use high dose in fulminant heart failure
	2-3 mg/kg IM, IV q8-12h followed by 1-2 mg/kg PO q12h for long-term management69	Emergency management of fulminant heart failure
Hyperimmune serum	1 mL/animal IV once57	Use serum from a healthy, appropriately vaccinated ferret for treatment of canine distemper virus infection
Isoproterenol	20-25 μg/animal SC, IM q4-6h69 40-50 μg/animal PO q4-6h69	Positive chronotrope to increase ventricular rate in third-degree AV block
Metaproterenol	0.25-1 mg/kg PO q12h69	Positive chronotrope to increase ventricular rate in third-degree AV block
Nitroglycerin (2%) ointment (Nitrol, Savage)	$\raisebox{1ex}{$1$}\!\left/ \!\raisebox{-1ex}{$16$}\right.$-$⅛$ inch/animal q12-24h52	Vasodilator for cardiomyopathy; apply to shaved inner thigh or pinna
Pimobendan	0.25-1.25 mg/kg PO q12h25 0.5 mg/kg PO q12h69 0.625-1.25 mg/kg q12h39	Phosphodiesterase inhibitor; increases cardiac contractility with dilated cardiomyopathy or mitral valve disease
Propranolol (Inderal, Wyeth-Ayerst)	0.2-1 mg/kg PO q8-12h52 2 mg/kg PO, SC q12h52	β-blocker for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; may cause lethargy, loss of appetite
Pseudophedrine	5 mg/kg PO q8h69	Positive chronotrope to increase ventricular rate in third-degree AV block
Terbutaline	2.5-5 mg/kg PO q12-24h27	Bronchodilator
Theophylline	4.25 mg/kg PO q8-12h12	Bronchodilator; use elixir

Table 11-6.

Adrenal Gland Disease Agents Used in Ferrets.

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Anastrazole (Arimidex, Astrazeneca Pharmaceuticals)	0.1 mg/kg PO q24h52	Estrogen inhibitor; precursor hormones blocked by inhibition of aromatase enzyme; use until signs resolve, then 7 days on, 7 days off, etc.; pregnant owners should avoid handling agent
Bicalutamide (Casodex, Astrazeneca Pharmaceuticals)	5 mg/kg PO q24h52	Testosterone inhibitor; competitively inhibits androgen by binding to receptors in target tissues; use until clinical signs resolve, then 7 days on, 7 days off, etc.; pregnant owners should avoid handling agent
Deoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP)	2 mg/kg IM q21d52	Treatment of adrenal insufficiency following bilateral adrenalectomy
Deslorelin (Suprelorin, Virbac Animal Health)	—	Long-acting GnRH analog that may suppress LH and FSH; used to control signs of adrenal disease; given as a subcutaneous implant approximately once yearly; now available in the United States
	2.7 mg implant SC38	Alternative to spay/neuter; the 2.7 mg implant is not available in the United States
	3 mg or 4.7 mg SC38,71	The 3 mg implant is not available in the United States
	4.7 mg implant SC25	Treatment of adrenal disease; lasts 10-18 months
	9.4 mg implant SC25	Treatment of adrenal disease; lasts 16-48 months; not available in the United States
Finasteride (Proscar, Merck)	5 mg/kg PO q24h52	Inhibits conversion of testosterone to active form of dihydrotestosterone; also used in treatment of prostatic enlargement
Flutamide (Eulexin, Schering)	5-10 mg/kg PO q12-24h11,52,63	Androgen inhibitor; reduces enlarged periurethral prostate tissue; lifetime treatment; associated with mammary tumors
Leuprolide acetate (Lupron, AbbVie)	—	Long-acting GnRH analog that may cause an initial stimulation, then suppression of LH and FSH; palliative treatment of adrenal disease (will not resolve tumor); administer q28d until clinical signs regress, then treatment interval can be up to 6-8 wk; lifetime treatment; higher dosage may shrink prostate within 12-48 hr which may improve urine flow in cases of urethral obstruction; must be prepared in aliquots and frozen (although the effects of freezing on drug efficacy are questionable) until used; very expensive
	1 mg IM q60-75d11 3 month depot	Adrenal disease
Lupron, Depot 30 day (TAP)	100-150 μg/kg IM q4-8wk1,70 250 μg/kg IM q4-8wk26
Lupron, Depot 4 month (TAP)	250 μg/kg IM59 2 mg/kg SC, IM q16wk52
Melatonin	0.5-1 mg/animal PO q24h61 prn	Symptomatic treatment of hyperadrenocorticism; may not affect tumor growth
	5.4 mg implant SC52	Should last 6-12 mo
Mitotane (o,p′-DDD) (Lysodren, Bristol-Myers)	—	Hyperadrenocorticism; variable results and not a reliable alternative to adrenalectomy or other drugs mentioned above; results have been largely unsatisfactory and, therefore, use is not recommended
Trilostane (Vetoryl, Dechra)	2 mg/kg PO q12h52	May be useful for treating pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism or adrenal dependent hyperadrenocorticism; reduces synthesis of adrenal androgens

Table 11-7.

Miscellaneous Agents Used in Ferrets.^a

Agent	Dosage	Comments
Activated charcoal	1-3 g/kg PO52	Orally administered adsorbent for gastrointestinal tract toxins/drug overdoses
Amantadine (Symmetrel, Endo Labs)	6 mg/kg as aerosol q12h5,25,52	Influenza; experimental antiviral
Apomorphine	0.7 mg/kg SC52	Emetic
	5 mg/kg SC52	Emetic; may cause excitation
Atropine	5-10 mg/kg SC, IM52	Organophosphate toxicity
Azathioprine (Imuran, GlaxoSmithKline)	0.9 mg/kg PO q24-72h9	Immunosuppressive agent; may use in chronic hepatitis
Barium (30%)	8-13 mL/kg PO52	Gastrointestinal contrast study
Barium (60%)	17 mL/kg PO66	Followed 30 minutes later by 42 mL/kg of air for a double contrast gastrointestinal study
Bismuth subcitrate, colloidal	6 mg/kg PO q12h52	In combination with enrofloxacin at 4.25 mg/kg q12h for Helicobacter
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Procter & Gamble)	0.25-1 mL/kg PO q4-8h52	Gastrointestinal ulcers; may help prevent Helicobacter colonization
	17.5 mg/kg PO q8-12h52
Bleomycin (Blenoxane, BristolMyersSquibb)	10 U/m2 SC52	Treatment of squamous cell carcinoma
Budesonide (Entocort, Astrazenca)	Up to 1 mg/ferret PO q24h49	Novel steroid may have use as single agent treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
Cabergoline	5 μg/kg PO q24h × 5 days27	Pseudopregnancy
Calcium EDTA	20-30 mg/kg SC q12h62	Treatment of heavy metal toxicosis
Chitosan	0.5 mg/kg on food q12h49	Intestinal phosphorus and uremic toxin absorbent; cellulose-like biopolymer from exoskeletons of marine invertebrates
Chlorambucil (Leukeran, Glaxo)	1 mg/kg PO4 20 mg/m2 PO52	Antineoplastic; in chemotherapy protocols for lymphomaa
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton, Squibb)	1-2 mg/kg PO q8-12h52	Antihistamine; control sneezing and coughing when they interfere with eating or sleeping
Cimetidine (Tagamet, SmithKline)	5-10 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q8h52 10 mg/kg PO, IV q8h25	H2 blocker; inhibits acid secretion; gastrointestinal ulcers; unpalatable; give IV (slow)
Ciproheptadine (Periactin, Merck)	0.5 mg/kg PO q12h49	Appetite stimulation
Cisapride (Propulsid, Janssen)	0.5 mg/kg PO q8-12h52	Antiemetic; motility enhancer; not currently available in the United States; must be compounded
Cobalamin	25 μg/kg SC q7d × 6 wk, then q14d × 6 wk, then q30d24	Chronic diarrhea; with cobalamin malabsorption
Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO, SC52	Antineoplastic; use at higher dose for salvage treatment of lymphomaa
	200 mg/m2 PO, SC4
	250 mg/m2 PO q4-5wk47	Part of a noninvasive protocol for treatment of lymphomaa
Cyclosporine	4-6 mg/kg PO q12h42	Pure red cell aplasia
Cytarabine (Cytosar-U, Zoetis)	300 mg/m2 q8wk47	Part of a noninvasive protocol for treatment of lymphomaa
Dexamethasone	0.5 mg/kg SC, IM, IV52
	1 mg/kg IM52	Post-adrenalectomy; follow with prednisone
Dexamethasone sodium phosphate	1-2 mg/kg IV3	Cerebral edema therapy
	2 mg/kg IM, IV19	Anaphylactic reaction to vaccine
	4-8 mg/kg IM, IV52	Shock therapy
Dextrose 50%	0.25-2 mL IV40	Bolus for hypoglycemia; give to effect
	1.25%-5% IV40	Infusion for hypoglycemic or inappetant animal
Diazoxide (Proglycem, Medical Market Specialties)	5-30 mg/kg PO q12h45,52 10 mg/kg PO q24h or divided q8-12h52	Insulinoma; insulin-blocker; can cause hypertension, lethargy, depression, nausea
Diphenhydramine	0.5-2 mg/kg PO, IM, IV q8-12h43,52	Antihistamine; controls sneezing and coughing when they interfere with eating or sleeping; give at high dose IM prevaccination when previous reaction occurred or for treatment of vaccine reaction
Doxapram	1-2 mg/kg IV52	Respiratory stimulant
	2-5 mg/kg IV53
Doxorubicin	1 mg/kg IV q21d × 4 treatments4	Antineoplastic agent; lymphoma;a salvage treatment
Epinephrine	0.02 mg/kg SC, IM, IV, IT52	Severe vaccine reaction; cardiac arrest
Epoetin alfa (Epogen, Amgen)	50-150 U/kg PO, IM q48h52	Stimulates erythropoiesis; after desired PCV is reached, administer q7d for maintenance
Famotidine (Pepcid, Merck)	0.25-0.5 mg/kg PO, SC, IV q24h52	Inhibits acid secretion; gastrointestinal ulcers
	2.5 mg PO, SC, IV q24h25
Fludrocortisone (Florinef, SquibbMark)	0.05-0.1 mg/kg PO q24h or divided q12h52	Mineralocorticoid replacement after adrenal gland removal
Flunixin meglumine (Banamine, Schering)	1 mg/kg SC, IM52	Prevention of prostaglandin-mediated hypotension of endotoxemia
	2.5 mg/animal SC, IM q12h prn14	Reduce inflammation in mastitis
Flurbiprofen sodium	1-2 drops q12-24h25	Ophthalmic inflammation
Gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (GI-DPTA) (Omniscan, GE Healthcare)	0.2 mL/kg3	MRI contrast agent for neurological studies
Glucagon	15 ng/kg/min IV constant-rate infusion8	Emergency management of hypoglycemia secondary to insulinoma
Glutamine	__	Amino acid; L form available OTC as a nutritional supplement; improves immune system, digestive health, and enhances muscle production
	0.5 g/kg PO divided daily49	Enterocyte supplementation with starvation
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (Cystorelin, Sanofi)	20 μg/animal IM14	Termination of estrus after day 10 of estrus; repeat in 2 wk prn
Hairball laxative, feline	1-2 mL/animal PO q48h52	Trichobezoar prophylaxis
Heparin	100 U/animal (0.45-1.35 kg) SC q24h × 21 days35	May be used in some heartworm treatments
	200 U/kg SC, IM q12h × 5 days52	Decreases thromboembolism; start day prior to some heartworm adulticide treatments
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) (Pregnyl, Organon)	—	Use 10 or more days after onset of estrus to induce ovulation and prevent hyperestrogenemia; repeat in 1-2 wk prn
	50-100 U/animal IM14
	200-1000 U/animal IM52
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate	25-40 mg/kg IV52	Shock
Hydrogen peroxide (3%)	2.2 mL/kg PO52	Emetic
Hydroxyzine (Atarax, Roerig)	2 mg/kg PO q8h52	Antihistamine; pruritus; may cause drowsiness
Insulin, glargine	0.5 U SC q12h23
Insulin, NPH	0.1 U/animal SC q12h52
	0.5-1 U/kg (or to effect) SC49	Diabetes mellitus; diabetic ketoacidosis; monitor blood glucose
Insulin, ultralente	0.1 U/animal SC q24h52	Diabetes mellitus; monitor blood glucose
Interferon-α	107 units IV or intranasal q24h for several days31	Adjunctive therapy for influenza
Iohexol	0.25-0.5 mL injected epidurally at the L5-L6 intervertebral disc space/kg3	Myelography
	10 mL/kg PO52	Gastrointestinal contrast study; can dilute 1:1 with water
	2.3 mL/kg IV66	Excretory urography
Ipecac (7%)	2.2-6.6 mL/animal PO52	Emetic
Iron dextran	10 mg/animal IM once49	Iron deficiency anemia; hemorrhage
Isotretinoin	2 mg/kg PO q24h4	Cutaneous epitheliotropic lymphoma
Kaolin/pectin	1-2 mL/kg PO q2-6h prn52	Gastrointestinal protectant
Lactulose syrup (Cephulac, Merrill Dow)	0.15-0.75 mL/kg PO q12h52 150-175 mg/kg PO q8-12h25	Absorption of blood ammonia in hepatic disease; may cause soft stools at higher dose
L-asparaginase	400 U/kg SC, IM4	Antineoplastic
	10,000 U/m2 SC q7d × 3 treatments47	Part of a noninvasive chemotherapy protocol
Levothyroxine	50-100 μg/animal q12h72	Hypothyroidism
Loperamide	0.2 mg/kg PO q12h52	Antidiarrheal
Mannitol	0.5-1 g/kg IV3	Give over 20 min
Methotrexate	0.5 mg/kg IV4	Antineoplastic
	0.8 mg/kg IM47	Part of noninvasive protocol for treatment of lymphomaa
Metoclopramide	0.2-1 mg/kg PO, SC, IM q6-8h53	Antiemetic; motility enhancer
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum)	4-15 mg/kg PO q8-12h25	Hepatoprotective
Misoprostol (Cytotech, Searle)	1-5 μg/kg PO q8h52	Gastric ulcers
Nandrolone decanoate	1-5 mg/kg IM q7d52	Anabolic steroid
Nutri-Cal (EVSCO)	1-3 mL/animal PO q6-8h52	Nutritional supplement
Octreotide (Sandostatin, Novartis)	1-2 μg/kg SC q8-12h49	Somatostatin analogue; potential treatment for insulinomas
Omeprazole (Prilosec, Astra Merck)	0.7 mg/kg PO q24h17	Proton-pump inhibitor; decreases gastric secretion of HCl
	4 mg/kg PO q24h25	Helicobacter; use with clarithromycin and metronidazole
Ondansetron	1 mg/kg PO q12-24h49	Antiemetic
Oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu, Genentech)	5-10 mg/kg PO q12h × 10 days31	Antiviral for influenza treatment
Oxytocin	0.2-3 U/kg SC, IM52	Expels retained fetuses; stimulates lactation
Penicillamine	10 mg/kg PO q24h25	Copper toxicity
Pentoxifylline (Pentoxil, Upsher-Smith)	20 mg/kg PO q12h37	Improves perfusion to hypoperfused tissue by increasing deformability of erythrocytes; supportive treatment for ferret systemic coronavirus
Pet-Tinic (SmithKline)	0.2 mL/kg PO q24h52	Nutritional/iron supplement for anemia
Phenobarbital	1-2 mg/kg PO q8-12h39,52	Seizure control
	2-10 mg/kg/h IV constant-rate infusion3	Seizure control if diazepam is not effective
Phenoxybenzamine (Dibenzyline, SmithKline Beecham)	3.75-7.5 mg/animal PO q24-72h59	α-Adrenergic antagonist; smooth muscle relaxation for urethral obstruction; potential gastrointestinal or cardiovascular side effects
Polyprenol (Vetimmune, Sass & Sass)	3 mg/kg PO 3 ×/wk37	Antioxidant and immunostimulant; supportive treatment for ferret systemic coronavirus
Potassium bromide	—	Seizure control
	22-30 mg/kg q24h PO3	Dose if used with phenobarbitol
	70-80 mg/kg q24h PO3	Dose if used alone
Prazosin (Minipress, Zoetis)	0.05-0.1 mg/kg PO q8h59	α-Adrenergic antagonist; smooth muscle relaxation for urethral obstruction; potential for gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects
Prednisone	0.25 mg/kg PO q12h × 5 days, then 0.1 mg/kg q12h × 10 days52	Postoperative adrenalectomy; after initial dose of dexamethasone
	0.25-1 mg/kg PO divided q12h52	Insulinoma; gradually increase to 4 mg/kg/day prn; up to 2 mg/kg/day when given with diazoxide
	0.5 mg/kg PO q12h × 7-10 days, then q24h × 7-10 days, then q48h × 7-10 days52	Postoperative adrenalectomy
	1 mg/kg PO q24h × 7-14 days52	Use following heartworm adulticide treatment; thromboembolism
	1.25-2.5 mg/kg PO q24h52	Eosinophilic gastroenteritis; treat until clinical signs abate; gradually decrease to q48h
	1.5 mg/kg PO q24h × 7 days, then taper to 0.8 mg/kg PO q24h46	Management of eosinophilic gastroenteritis
	2 mg/kg PO q24h52	Palliative therapy for lymphosarcomaa or chronic inflammatory bowel disease; taper dose as able
Procarbazine	50 mg/m2 PO q24h × 14 days4	Part of a noninvasive protocol for treatment of lymphomaa
Proligestone	50 mg SC59	Induce ovulation when jill has been in estrus for 10 days; not available in the United States
Prostaglandin F2-α (Lutalyse, Upjohn)	0.1-0.5 mg/animal IM prn7	Metritis; expels necrotic debris
	0.5 mg/animal IM7	Can induce delivery on day 41 if only one kit; follow with 6 U oxytocin 1-4 hr later
Pyridostigmine (Mestinon, Valeant)	1 mg/kg PO q8h13	Oral cholinesterase inhibitor for potential treatment of myasthenia gravis
	1 mg/kg PO q8-12h2	Myasthenia gravis; overdose possible with long-term use
Ranitidine bismuth citrate (Pylorid, Glaxo Wellcome)	24 mg/kg PO q8h44	Helicobacter; use in combination with clarithromycin; not available in the United States
Ranitidine HCl (Zantac, Glaxo Wellcome)	3.5 mg/kg PO q12h25,66	Inhibits acid secretion; gastrointestinal ulcers
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) (Vetri-SAMe, Vetriscience Labs)	20-100 mg/kg PO q24h49	Adjunctive treatment for liver disease; hepatoprotectant; improves synthesis of glutathione and other compounds important for liver function
Saw palmetto	0.15 mL/animal PO q12h52	Homeopathic remedy used for dysuria associated with prostatic enlargement
Stanozolol (Winstrol, Upjohn)	0.5 mg/kg PO, SC q12h52	Anemia; anabolic steroid; use with caution in hepatic disease
Sucralfate (Carafate, Hoechst Marion Roussel)	25-125 mg/kg PO q8-12h52	Gastrointestinal ulcers; give before meals; requires acidic pH
Sulfasalazine	62.5-125 mg PO q8-24h49	Management of colitis
Theophylline elixir	4.25 mg/kg PO q8-12h52	Bronchodilator
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)	1 U IV30	Blood for T4 measurement taken 120 min later
Thyroxine	0.2-0.4 mg/kg q12h52	Hypothyroidism; adjust and taper as needed
Trientine (Syprine, Valeant)	10 mg/kg PO q12h25	Chelating agent used for copper toxicosis
Ursodiol (Actigall, Ciba)	15 mg/kg PO q12h9	Treatment of chronic hepatopathies
Vincristine	0.12-0.2 mg/kg IV4
	0.75 mg/m2 IV4	Minimal myelosuppression
Vitamin A (retinol palmitate)	50,000 U IM q24h × 2 treatments62	Reduced mortality secondary to canine distemper virus infection
Vitamin B complex	1-2 mg/kg IM prn52	Dose based on thiamine content
Vitamin C	50-100 mg/kg PO q12h25	Adjunct therapy for lymphoma
Vitamin K	2.5 mg/kg SC, then 1-2.5 mg/kg PO divided q8-12h × 5-7 days49	First generation rodenticide toxicity (e.g., warfarin class)
	5 mg/kg SC, then 2.5 mg/kg PO divided q8-12h × 3 wk49	Second generation rodenticide toxicity (e.g., brodifacoum class)
	2.5-5 mg/kg SC, then 2.5 mg/kg PO divided q8-12h × 3-4 wk49	Inandione or unknown anticoagulant toxicity
Yeast, brewer’s	$⅛$-$\raisebox{1ex}{$1$}\!\left/ \!\raisebox{-1ex}{$4$}\right.$ tsp PO q12h52	Source of chromium to stabilize glucose and insulin for animals with insulinomas
Zanamivir (Relenza, GlaxoSmithKline)	12.5 mg/kg intranasal only5	Antiviral for influenza treatment; greater effect if used with amantadine
	0.3-1 mg/kg via inhalation q12h31

^aSee Table 11-13 for chemotherapy protocols for lymphoma.

Table 11-8.

Hematologic and Biochemical Values of Ferrets.^22,43,52

Measurements	Female	Male
Hematologya
PCV (%)	34.6-55	33.6-61
RBC (106/μL)	6.77-9.76	7.1-13.2
Hgb (g/dL)	11.9-17.4	12-18.5
MCV (fL)	44.4-53.7	42.6-52.5
MCH (pg)	16.4-19.4	13.7-19.7
MCHC (g/dL)	33.2-42.2	30.3-34.9
WBC (103/μL)	2.5-18.2	4.4-19.1
Neutrophils (%)	12-84	11-82
Band cells (%)	0-4.2	0-2.2
Lymphocytes (%)	12-95	12-73
Monocytes (%)	1-8	0-9
Eosinophils (%)	0-9	0-8.5
Basophils (%)	0-2.9	0-2.7
Platelets (103/μL)	264-910	297-730
Reticulocytes (%)	2-14	1-12
Biochemistries
ALP (U/L)	3-62	11-120
ALT (U/L)	54-280	54-289
AST (U/L)	40-120	28-248
Bilirubin, total (mg/dL)	0-1	0-0.1
Bile acids (μmol/L)	0.0-28.9	0.0-28.9
BUN (mg/dL)	10-45	11-42
Calcium (mg/dL)	8-10.2	8.3-11.8
Carbon dioxide (mEq/L)	16.5-27.8	12.2-28
Chloride (mEq/L)	112-124	102-126
Cholesterol (mg/dL)	122-296	64-221
Creatinine (mg/dL)	0.2-1	0.2-1
GGT (U/L)	0-5	0-5
Glucose (mg/dL)	85-207	62.5-198
LDH (U/L)	—	241-752
Lipase (U/L)	—	0-200
Phosphorus (mg/dL)	4.2-10.1	4-8.7
Potassium (mEq/L)	4.2-7.7	4.1-7.3
Protein, total (g/dL)	5.1-7.2	5.3-7.4
Albumin (g/dL)	3.2-4.1	2.8-4.2
Globulin (g/dL)	2.2-3.2	2-4
Albumin:globulin	1-1.6	0.8-2.1
Sodium (mEq/L)	142-156	137-162
Triglycerides (mg/dL)	—	10-32

^aSeveral of these hematology values were obtained from ferrets under isoflurane anesthesia. This can artificially lower red cell indices and may be responsible for the wide ranges in some values.

Table 11-9.

Protein Electrophoresis Values for Ferrets.⁴⁸

Parameter	Normal Values
Total protein (g/dL)	5.6-7.2
Albumin (g/dL)	3.3-4.1
Alpha1 globulins (g/dL)	0.33-0.56
Alpha2 globulins (g/dL)	0.36-0.60
Beta globulins (g/dL)	0.83-1.2
Gamma globulins (g/dL)	0.3-0.8
A/G	1.3-2.1

Table 11-10.

Biologic and Physiologic Data of Ferrets.^43,52,64

Parameter	Normal Values
Adult body weight, male	1-2 kg
Adult body weight, female	0.65-0.95 kg
Birth weight	6-12 g
Weight at 7 days	30 g average
Weight at 14 days	60-70 g
Sexual maturity	6-12 mo (usually 1st spring after birth)
Reproductive cycle	Induced ovulator
Gestation period	42 ± 2 days
Litter size	1-18 (average 8, primiparous jill 10)
Weaning age	6-8 wk
Eyes open	34 days
Hearing	32 days
Life span	5-9 yr (average in United States)
Food consumption	43 g/kg/day
Water consumption	75-100 mL/day
Gastrointestinal transit time	3-4 hr
Enteral feeding requirements	2000-3000 kcal/kg/day
Dental formula	2(I 3/3 C 1/1 P 3/3 M 1/2) = 34
Deciduous teeth erupt	20-28 days
Permanent teeth erupt	50-74 days
Canines erupt	50 days
Molars erupt (first to fourth)	53-74 days
Heart rate	200-400 beats/min
Mean systolic blood pressure	133-161 mmHg
Respiratory rate	33-36 breaths/min
Rectal temperature	37.8-40°C (100-104°F)
Blood volume	60-80 mL (5%-7% body weight)
Intraocular pressure	22.8 ± 5.5 mmHg
Endotracheal tube size	2-4 mm ID
Prothrombin time (PT)	8-16.5 sec
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)	16-25 sec

Table 11-11.

Urinalysis Values of Ferrets.⁵²

Parameter	Male	Female
Volume (mL/24 hr)	26 (8-48)	28 (8-140)
Sodium (mmol/24 hr)	1.9 (0.4-6.7)	1.5 (0.2-5.6)
Potassium (mmol/24 hr)	2.9 (1-9.6)	2.1 (0.9-5.4)
Chloride (mmol/24 hr)	2.4 (0.7-8.5)	1.9 (0.3-7.8)
pH	6.5-7.5a	6.5-7.5a
Protein (mg/dL)	7-33	0-32
Exogenous creatinine clearance (mL/min/kg)b	—	3.32 ± 2.16
Insulin clearance (mL/min/kg)	—	3.02 ± 1.78
Specific gravity	1.040-1.052	__

^aUrine pH can vary according to diet; normal urine pH in ferrets on a high-quality, meat-based diet is approximately 6.

^bEndogenous creatinine clearance (mL/min/kg) = 2.5 ± 0.93.

Table 11-12.

Proposed Schedule of Vaccinations and Routine Prophylactic Care for Ferrets.^43,52

Age	Recommendation
4-6 wk	CDVa vaccination if dam is unvaccinated
6-8 wk	CDVa,b vaccination if dam was vaccinated; physical examination; fecal examination
10-11 wk	CDVa, b, c vaccination; physical examination; fecal examination
12-14 wk	CDVa, b, c vaccination; rabies vaccination;d physical examination; fecal examination (optional)
4-8 mo	Spay/castrate; fecal examination; remove musk glands (optional); start heartworm and flea prevention (endemic areas)
1 yr	CDVa,e booster; rabies booster;d physical examination; dental prophylaxis and fecal examination if indicated; CBC; heartworm and flea prevention
2 yr	CDVa,e,f booster; rabies booster;d physical examination; dental prophylaxis and fecal examination if indicated; CBC; heartworm and flea prevention
3 yr and older (every 6 mo)	CDVa,e,f booster (annual); rabies boosterd (annual); physical examination; dental prophylaxis and fecal examination if indicated; CBC; serum chemistries, including fasting blood glucose; heartworm and flea prevention

^aCDV, canine distemper vaccine; Purevax (Merial) is the only CDV approved for use in ferrets; if Purevax is unavailable, other vaccines which have been used include Novibac DPv (Merck) and Recombitek (Merial).

^bPurevax is recommended to be administered at 8 wk, then every 3 wk for 3 doses.

^cVaccinations are generally administered at 2-3 wk intervals until the ferret is 12-14 wk of age.

^dOnly a killed virus vaccine (Imrab 3, Rhône Merieux) should be used. Vaccines should be separated by several days to reduce vaccine reactions.

^eIn previously unvaccinated adults, an initial series of two vaccinations given 14-28 days apart should be given.

^fRabies and distemper titers are under evaluation and may alter the revaccination schedule of older animals.

Table 11-13.

Chemotherapy Protocols for Lymphoma in Ferrets.^a

Protocol I47,52
Week	Day	Agent	Dosage
1	1	Prednisone	1-2 mg/kg PO q12h and continued throughout therapy
	1	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
	3	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO, SC
2	8	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
3	15	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
4	22	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
	24	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO, SC
7	46	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO, SC
9	63	Prednisone	Gradually decrease dose to 0 over the next 4 wk

Protocol IIb,52
Week	Agent	Dosage
1	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
	L-asparaginase	400 U/kg IP
	Prednisone	1 mg/kg PO q24h and continued throughout therapy
2	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg SC
3	Doxorubicin	1 mg/kg IV
4-6	As weeks 1-3 above, but discontinue L-asparaginase	—
8	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
10	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg SC
12	Vincristine	0.025 mg/kg IV
14	Methotrexate	0.5 mg/kg IV

Protocol III47
Week	Agent	Dosage
1	L-asparaginase	10,000 U/m2 SC
	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
	Prednisone	2 mg/kg PO daily for 7 days, then q48h throughout therapy
2	L-asparaginase	10,000 U/m2 SC
	Perform CBCc
3	L-asparaginase	10,000 U/m2 SC
	Cytosar	300 mg/m2 SC × 2 days (dilute 100 mg with 1 mL H20)
4	Perform CBCc
5	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
7	Methotrexate Perform CBCc	0.8 mg/kg IM
8	Perform CBCc
9	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
11	Cytosar	300 mg/m2 SC × 2 days (dilute 100 mg with 1 mL H2O)
	Leukeran	1 tablet/animal PO or ½ tablet/animal PO × 2 days
12	Perform CBCc
13	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
15	Procarbazine	50 mg/m2 PO q24h × 14 days
16	Perform CBCc
17	Perform CBCc
18	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
20	Cytosar	300 mg/m2 SC × 2 days (dilute 100 mg with 1 mL H2O)
	Leukeran	1 tablet/animal PO or ½ tablet/animal PO × 2 days
23	Cytoxin	250 mg/m2 PO, SC (in 50 mL/kg of NaCl SC)
26	Procarbazine	50 mg/m2 PO q24h × 14 days
27	Perform CBCc and chemistry panel	If not in remission, continue weeks 20-26 for 3 cycles

Protocol IV4
Week	Agent	Dosage
3 days	L-asparaginase	400 U/kg SC (premedicate with diphenhydramine)
1	Vincristine	0.12 mg/kg IV
	Prednisone	1 mg/kg PO q24h continue throughout therapy
	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO
2	Vincristine	0.12 mg/kg IV
3	Vincristine	0.12 mg/kg IV
4	Vincristine	0.12 mg/kg IV
	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO
7, 10, 13, etc.	Vincristine	0.12 mg/kg IV
	Cyclophosphamide	10 mg/kg PO
		Continue therapy every 3 wk for 1 yr, then decrease to every 4-6 wk
Rescue treatment	Doxorubicin	1-2 mg/kg IV (over 20 min)

^aCBC should be checked weekly during therapy; after therapy is discontinued, continue to monitor CBC and do physical examination at 3-mo intervals.

^bProtocol is continued in sequence biweekly after week 14, making the therapy protocol less intensive.

^cIf CBC shows severe myelosuppression, reduce dosage by 25% for all subsequent treatments of the previously used myelosuppressive drug.

Table 11-14.

Conversion of Body Weight (kg) to Body Surface Area (m²).⁴⁷

Body Weight (kg)	Body Surface Area (m2)
0.5	0.063
0.6	0.071
0.7	0.079
0.8	0.086
0.9	0.093
1.0	0.100
1.1	0.107
1.2	0.113
1.3	0.119
1.4	0.125
1.5	0.131
1.6	0.137
1.7	0.142
1.8	0.148
1.9	0.153
2.0	0.159
2.1	0.164
2.2	0.169
2.3	0.174
2.4	0.179
2.5	0.184