Aleutian Disease in Ferrets

Aleutian disease in ferrets, or ADV as it's also known as, is a parvovirus that was first discovered in mink, and has now affected ferrets in the US. There is no known cure or vaccine for the virus, which causes problems with the immune system.

The transmission of aleutian disease in ferrets is through bodily excretions and fluids and, worrying for breeders, it can also be transmitted through the jill’s placenta to her kits. Transmission is possible via the air and even through contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can also survive for a long period in the environment.

It is common for ferrets to carry this virus without showing symptoms, and for them to transmit it to other ferrets.

Some of the symptoms include

Dark, tarry stools (due to the presence of blood)

Anemia

Anorexia

Enlargement of the liver or spleen

Lethargy

Tremors

Weakness of the hindquarters, traveling from the back to the front

American ferrets can get the ADV Antibody ELISA test which is available from Avecon Diagnostics. It is especially recommended to check ferrets which are being considered as breeding stock or if moving ferrets from one house to another, so that there is no danger of spreading the disease.

Ferret ADV

Aleutian Disease Virus (ADV) in the Ferret (AFA)

Aleutian Disease in Ferrets by Dr Adrian Deeney (NFWS)

Aleutian Disease Virus by Bruce Williams, DVM (Miami Ferret)

Aleutian Disease In Ferrets by Richard R. Nye DVM & Susan A. Brown, DVM

Aleutian Disease in Ferrets: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention (PetEducation)

Misconceptions about ADV (Aleutian Disease Virus) in Ferrets

Aleutian Mink Disease - A Hidden Danger to your Ferret (AFA)

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