Posted: May 30, 2008, 7 p.m. EDT
Successful mite infestation prevention depends on observation, isolation and treatment
- Every ferret should have a veterinary health check immediately upon arrival in its new home.
- Owners should examine their ferrets closely every day for signs of problems.
- Every ferret should have a veterinary examination at least once every six months.
- The health exam should include an ear swab to check for ear mites (Otodectes cynotis).
- If skin mites are suspected, a skin scraping should be done to check for skin mites (Sarcoptes scabiei).
- Have a veterinarian check all new animals in the house (ferrets, dogs, cats) for ear mites and skin mites immediately upon arrival.
- Keep ferrets’ environment and cages clean and disinfected.
- Use only fresh bedding and discard contaminated bedding.
- Isolate all infested animals. Keep them away from healthy animals until a veterinarian has determined that treatment was successful and that they are no longer infested with mites.
- If any animal in the house is diagnosed with mites, all animals in the house must be treated (ferrets, dogs and cats). Consult a veterinarian immediately.
Sharon Vanderlip, DVM, has provided veterinary care to exotic and domestic animals for 29 years. She has authored numerous scientific articles and 18 books on pet care and she has received awards for her writing and dedication to animal health. Dr. Vanderlip may be contacted for seminars, consultations and speaking engagements at her website. Click here>>