Ferrets may suffer gastritis and gastric ulcers (stomach ulcers) due to an infection by the bacteria Helicobacter mustelae. This bacteria is closely related to the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers in people.  Ferrets typically have poor appetites with this condition and may grind their teeth in pain.  Some ferrets dehydrate quickly as they are reluctant to drink.  Ferrets may vomit due to gastritis but this is not a consistent sign.  If a ferret vomits blood, that is a very serious sign and emergency care is needed.  Once an ulcer has formed in the stomach, the blood from this ulcer is digested in the intestine and is passed from the body as a very black and pastey to watery stool known as "melena".  This is also sometimes referred to as tar or tarry diarrhea.  If you notice this sort of stool, you need to get your ferret to us or another vet as quickly as possible.

Helicobacter infections can be treated by specific antibiotics.  Ulcers need stomach protectants until they are healed.  Supportive care such as oral Pedialyte (en electrolyte solution found in the Baby Care aisle of grocery stores and drug stores) or intravenous or subcutaneous fluids may be needed.  Many ferrets end up hospitalized for several days.  In some instances ferrets die despite treatment due to severe internal bleeding when a gastric ulcer ruptures.

Copyright 2008
Kevin Wright and Jay Johnson
Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital, LLC
744 N Center Street
Mesa, AZ 85203
info@azeah.com