Cystic Kidneys in Ferrets

Ferrets are usually aged between 2-3 years old when this condition is first diagnosed, however it can be found in kits soon after weaning which makes vets think it could be an inherited condition.

Cystic kidneys are caused when large bubbles of fluid form and kill off the kidney’s normal structure when they continue to enlarge.

If only one kidney is affected, then it can be removed and the ferret will be able to continue living normally.

However if both kidneys are affected, the ferret will die when there’s not enough of the normal tissue left to keep the kidneys functioning properly.

Congenital Problems & Genetic Defects by Judith A. Bell, DVM, PhD

DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this page is not meant to replace seeing a veterinarian if you think your ferret is ill. It’s only meant to supply general information on a particular illness which was obtained either from personal experience with my sick ferrets, or from books and/or the Internet.

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