Cataracts & Blindness in Ferrets

Just about all of our older ferrets developed cataracts after the age of 7. Our first male, Chucky, was virtually blind because of his cataracts but it didn't hinder him getting around the house in any way. And he still managed to chase the cats if they got in his way! :-)

Cataracts are very obvious in dark-eyed ferrets, as they develop a greyish-blue, milky film across their pupils. With albinos, the red becomes almost pink but it’s not quite as noticeable.

Some older ferrets can suffer from retinal atrophy, a condition caused when the sensitive lining at the back of the eye dies off over time.

Blind ferrets are perfectly able to get around the house – just make sure you don’t move your furniture around to confuse your little friend! They can also get frightened if you startle them, so if you know you have a blind ferret in the family, be very gentle in your movements when you play with him or her.

More about eye problems in ferrets can be found in these articles ...

Trauma and Disease Threaten Ferret Eyes and Lives by Rebecca Sweat (Veterinary Practice News)

Living With A Blind Ferret by L. Vanessa Gruden (FACT)

Return from Cataracts & Blindness in Ferrets to All About Ferrets