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Treatment

It is important to first treat any heart abnormalities and reduce any fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest. The fluid buildup is reduced by using diuretics – a drug which elevates the rate of urine – and reducing the salt in the ferret's diet.

Along with medications to strengthen the heart, the veterinarian may recommend supplemental oxygen and bronchodilators -- a substance which dilates the bronchi and bronchioles -- to ferrets that are having difficulty breathing.

Ferret must also have a stress-free living, given plenty of rest, a proper diet, and a steady room temperature to cope with dilated cardiomyopathy. If the ferret is not over-weight, then restricting activity is recommended to prevent any excessive stress on the weakened heart.