Posted: January 1, 2011, 5 a.m. EST
Some general signs of pain and distress in ferrets follow. The list includes many sublte changes in behavior that might indicate a problem. Always consult a ferret-knowledgeable veterinarian if you suspect your ferret is in pain or distress.
Back: arched, stiff, unbending
Bedding area: abnormal locations, open, uncovered
Breathing: panting, shallow, sighing
Conduct: aggressive, biting, hiding
Consciousness: comatose, inattentive, unresponsive
Ears: drooped, laid-back, wiggling
Eating: anorexic, hand-fed, refusing
Environmental interest: non-existent, poor, subdued
Eyes: closed, half-open, squinty
Gait: forced, stiff, stumbling
Grooming: extreme, none, slight
Head: elevated, extended, immobile
Jaws: chewing, clamping, snapping
Movement: hesitant, immobile, slow
Oral: drooling, salivating, slobbering
Posture: awkward, bushy-tailed, collapsed
Slumber: guarded, non-curled, tense
Teeth: clicking, grating, grinding
Temperature: cold, cool, hot
Toilet habits: incontinent, indiscriminate, retained
Touch: avoiding, recoiling, withdrawing
Vocalization: hissing, silence, quiet whimpering
Weakness: feebleness, paralysis, shakiness
For further information about ferret pain and distress, click here>>