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Treatment

Treatment typically involves inpatient care and isolation to prevent the infection from spreading to other ferrets and dogs. Some medications that are generally prescribed by a veterinarian include antiviral agents and antibiotics. Supportive care may help prolong the ferret's life, and intravenous fluids helps replace valuable electrolytes the animal has lost because of its loss of appetite or diarrhea.

Any medications that work to further suppress the immune system are not recommended because the ferret’s immune system is already compromised due to the long-term effects of canine distemper virus. To preclude the animal from pain or future complications, the veterinarian will usually suggest you euthanize the ferret.

Prevention

Yearly vaccination appointments for the ferret is its best defense against this deadly viral infection.