Heartworm Disease (Dirofilariasis) in Ferrets

Just one heartworm could kill a ferret, as their hearts are so small. Heartworm can be treated but the disease is very serious and the treatment is risky and expensive.

Some of the symptoms are:

Coughing

Lethargy

Shortness of breath

Gums which look pale and grayish

Rapid pulse

Fluid build up in the stomach

Prevention is much better than a cure so if you know you are in an area where heartworm is prevalent, speak to your vet about the best medication to keep your ferret safe.

Before starting on any heartworm prevention medication, your vet will probably want to do a blood test on your ferret to make sure it’s not already infected.

I was told to use 10 drops of the large dog tube of Revolution for each ferret by my vet. However I have also been told that the 5-15lb size cat tube of Revolution should be used per ferret for maximum protection against heartworm. Be aware that Revolution doesn’t kill heartworms, it is only a prevention.

Speak to your vet and be guided by their advice.

Heartworm Disease In Ferrets by R S Hines, DVM PhD

Heartworm Disease by Dr Deborah Kemmerer Cottrell

Do I need to worry about heartworms? Ferret FAQ

Diagnosing Heartworm Disease In Ferrets. How veterinarians diagnose heartworm disease in ferrets by Sandra Mitchell, DVM, DABVP

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