FERRET-need advice ASAP

[dovelady4]

My ferret seems to be constipated as I haven't seem him eat in a few days and he hasn't had any good bowel movements lately. He's been urinating and drinking normally. I was told to give him some vasoline to help any blockage move south, good or bad? Anyone know about mineral oil?

Also, I know ferrets are prone to weak hips, especially older ones like Duke, but I'm watching him crawl around on my bed and he is not using his hind legs whatsoever, merely dragging them behind him. He was able to use them a week ago, and he's been quickly declining since.

His eyes are bright and he seems fairly active out of te cage, but in the cage he literally looks...well...dead. He lies on his side on the floor, not even on his pillow. I don't know what to do as I can't get him to a vet anytime soon! Please help!:very_sad:

[Janie]

Grace, my advice would be to find a ferret forum (assuming there is one) and asking there. Maybe someone here has a ferret (?) but other than recommending an exotic vet specialist, I wouldn't have a clue what to tell you.

I hope all goes well. :)

[beckyg]

I don't know about ferrets but when my toy poodle was constipated the vet told me to give him some mineral oil. It did the trick.

[Eliza]

If he hasn't had any bowel movements recently (you know how those little slinkies can be poop machines), he could be constipated or have an obstruction. I'm worried about the lack of appetite and weakness in his hindquarteres.

I would avoid home remedies like Vaseline (which I wouldn't give any animal to begin with; Petromalt or un-petroleum jelly from a health food store is safer) or mineral oil and take him to a ferret-savvy vet ASAP -- is there a family member or friend who can help you? At the very least, call your vet to see what s/he can recommend over the phone.

Best of luck,

-e-

[Hannah'sMom]

I would also call the vet. If he's urinating okay and drinking, then it really sounds to me like an obstruction of some sort. I sure hope he gets better soon! Keep us updated!