Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I want to get a ferret, but Ive heard that half of them (or so) end up with AD. Is there a cure to it? Can it be prevented? Do bloodlines matter?
Any information would be greatly appreciated.

There are some conflicting opinions about bloodlines and AD, also about light patterns and AD as it can affect melatonin production and meltonin seems to alleviate some of the AD symptoms. If AD is caught quickly and the cancer is not too aggressive, it can be cured with surgery, but sometimes depending on whether it is the right or left adrenal it cannot be completely removed. I have had 4 ferrets, all have been marshalls farms ferrets, one died of aggressive AD, one died of insulinoma but had one AD gland removed during his life, a third die of cancer unrelated to AD, and the last is still living at age 4 with no health issues so far. There's a good chance you will have to deal with either AD or insulinoma if you own ferrets, so if you decide to get one, be prepared and make sure you have a good vet. That is more important than bloodline if you ask me. Good Luck!

My guy had AD and he exhibited few of the textbook signs. He had fur loss on his belly first and then eventually all over EXCEPT for his tail and he showed no signs of fatigue or loss of quality of life other than what seemed to be normal aging.

You've probably read the theories about AD being caused by day/night rhythms being off. What worked for me was putting him in a room with no sunlight with a lamp using a flourescent bulb (the kind that screw into regular lightbulb sockets) on a timer with about 2 hours of light at about dawn and dusk. All of his fur grew back and he kept it 6 months until he passed away.

I have owned several ferrets thru the years and found diet is everything. I now only feed Innova Evo Ferret.
I have a rescue that was in rough shape, hair very yellow and very skinny with no muscle. The vet said her blood work was good and found no other problems except the low weight and poor muscle.
She has been on the Evo for three weeks now and has lost the yellow color to her hair. She is getting lots of free time and is gaining weight and play times are getting longer.
Although I don't know for sure I believe a high protein(50%), low carb and forget the treats ( treats are for Humans to make them feel good not the ferret.)
Love, lots of clean fresh water and a high quality food makes the difference.
Interaction and play time is crucial like any other being on this planet.
I handle my ferrets daily, always checking ears, teeth and feeling their entire body from top to bottom. They love the special attention and line up and complain loudly if their turn takes to long...lol