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Treatment

In cases of severe weakness or paralysis, inpatient treatment (in a hospital) is necessary. The ferret’s activity should be restricted until spinal trauma and disk herniation have been ruled out as causes. Moreover, immobile ferrets should be moved away from soiled bedding and turned from side to side four to eight times per day. If your ferret should have a tumor, however, it may require more intensive treatment, such as surgery.

Living and Management

Before leaving the hospital, the ferret should have neurologic examinations on a daily basis. In cases of paralysis and paresis, it may be necessary to evacuate the patient’s bladder (manually or with a catheter) three to four times a day in order to keep this function regular. Once bladder function has returned, the ferret may return home, where you will monitor its symptoms.

Prevention

As there are a wide range of causes that may lead to paresis or paralysis, there is no possible way to recommend an all-encompassing prevention method. It is wise to avoid dangerous situations where traumatic incidents that can damage the central nervous system may occur.