Hypoglycemia is an abnormally low blood concentration of glucose, or sugar—basically, the opposite of diabetes. It’s caused by excess insulin or insulin-like factors (e.g., insulinoma or an overdose of insulin administered medically). Because glucose is a main energy of source in an animal's body, a low amount will result in a severe decrease in energy levels, possibly to the point of loss of consciousness.
Some ferrets appear normal aside from findings associated with the underlying disease, while most have episodic signs, including:
Endocrine
Hepatic Disease
Reduced Intake/Underproduction
If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms in your ferret, it is advisable to see a veterinarian immediately. If your ferret has already lost consciousness, or is visibly at the point of collapsing, you will need to call your veterinarian for instructions on immediate at-home treatment, followed by a visit with the doctor.
Even if you are able to treat your ferret at home during the episode of hypoglycemia, you will still need to see your veterinarian so that blood work can be done. Your veterinarian will need to do a complete blood profile, a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis. He or she may also recommend abdominal X-rays and an ultrasound, especially if he suspects cancer or other masses as the underlying cause.