Posted: October 1, 2009, 5 a.m. EDT
Q:
My son’s ferret ate some of a Styrofoam cup, and we are afraid of intestinal blockage. What are the signs of a problem? How do we know if the ferret is in trouble or not?
A:
When ferrets have a gastrointestinal blockage, they usually do not want to eat. They do not defecate. They are lethargic. They look like they have a stomachache. Ferrets with a blockage rarely vomit, as dogs and cats will do.
It is likely the Styrofoam will pass without any problem. But if you are concerned, a quick trip to the veterinarian will answer your question. Your veterinarian may palpate the abdomen and maybe even take radiographs that will give you an answer and, hopefully, peace of mind that everything is fine with your ferret.
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