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Treatment

Most cases of diabetes can be managed without complications, but for some ferrets the situation may be more challenging. Your veterinarian will make an individual treatment and management plan for your ferret based on the ferret's current disease status. He or she will also brief you on what to look for in case of either hypoglycemia (low levels of glucose) or hyperglycemia (high level of glucose), both of which can be seen in diabetic ferrets.

Lowering insulin demands and balancing your ferret's food and liquid cravings to healthy levels is another priority, as obesity is one of the major risk factors for diabetes. Keeping a daily and weekly chart of your ferret's diet, glucose test results, daily insulin dose, and weekly body weight is highly recommended for following patterns and recognizing when your ferret deviates from it's regular pattern. There are various types of insulin available and a selection of the type that is appropriate to your ferret will made by your veterinarian.

Living and Management

Ferrets with spontaneous resolution (or the complete resolution of their symptoms without care) are most likely to have the best possible odds of a recovery. However, long-term follow-up care is often warranted, especially in ferrets with severe cases of diabetes mellitus. To ensure proper recovery, follow your veterinarian's dietary regimen. Ferrets that receive insulin therapy because of high blood sugar levels due to recent pancreatic surgery are typically on it only for a temporary basis.