As a ferret owner if you are wondering can ferrets carry rabies? Then you have landed at the right place.
Yes, your pet ferret can indeed carry rabies. Whether you are a new or an old ferret owner you must be aware of rabies in ferrets.
It could even be dangerous until life-threatening to your pet so you can’t ignore it.
As it is said ‘precaution is better than cure’ and the same goes with rabies in ferrets. In this article I will explain, the signs of rabies in ferrets, the causes of rabies in ferrets, can ferret rabies transfer to humans, and more.
I will explain everything based on personal experience, knowledge, and veterinarian suggestions. So, make sure to read till the end.
Content List
Does my ferret need a rabies shot?
Yes, your ferret needs a rabies shot which can be done through vaccination.
Ferret vaccination will develop a disease-free and even happier and stronger bond between you two.
If you have already grown a pet then take him/her for vaccination on an annual basis. On the other hand, if you have micro ferret then vaccinate after 12 weeks of the birth.
What is ferret rabies?
Rabies is a fatal viral disease transmitted from the bite of a rabid animal or via mucous membranes and the same applies to ferrets as well.
Most rabies deaths in people around the world are indeed caused by dog bites. But, even ferret rabies isn’t less dangerous. It may cause life-threatening so you can’t take it lightly.
Can ferrets carry rabies?
Can Ferrets Carry Rabies? Yes, your ferret may indeed get rabies-infected, and knowing it is essential for the treatment of your ferret.
I had personal experience dealing with rabies in ferrets. Last winter, my two-year-old furry ferret got bitten by a street dog during a morning walk.
I contacted a ferret veterinarian for treatment but the rabies infection was already spreading in the ferret’s body.
Thankfully, with the right care, treatment, and veterinarian consultation my pet was cured. So, after this challenging ferret rabies time, I learned and grew a lot as a ferret owner.
Signs of rabies in ferrets?
Being a ferret owner you would never want that tour ferret got suffer from rabies, but in the worst unfortunate case if your pet got rabies. The first step is to identify it in your pet.
To identify rabies you need to know all possible symptoms your furry friend will exhibit after rabies.
When a ferret gets rabies you will notice a sudden and clear change in behavior that leads to complete paralysis. Even a bit of delay causes life-threatening to ferrets.
Symptoms of rabies in ferrets
The following are some common symptoms your ferret will exhibit while carrying rabies:
- Change in attitude- apprehension, nervousness, irritability
- Unusual erratic behavior such as biting or snapping, biting at the cage, wandering and roaming
- Exhibiting disorientation and seizures
In many cases, the ferret dies after a few days of rabies symptoms.
What causes rabies in ferrets?
Primarily rabies spreads in ferrets through contact with saliva or brain/nervous system tissue from an infected animal. The contact mainly happens via bites or scratches.
The bites and scratches are responsible because they took place via unvaccinated animals like dogs, cats, and other wild animals.
Rarely, a ferret also gets rabies infected by breathing in the escaping gases from the decomposing animal carcasses.
Can ferrets carry rabies to humans?
A ferret bite does not carry rabies to humans until in one case when ferrets already suffering from rabies. So, it’s a two-step thing when ferrets carry rabies to the human body.
Generally, in humans, the symptoms of rabies start showing in a few days to months after the bite. Once the symptoms start showing almost it becomes too late for the treatment.
That is why it’s been said that ‘precaution is better than cure’ so in this case as soon as you are bitten by a ferret, you should wash the wound immediately and consult a doctor right away.
For the best surety and security of your ferrets and yourself, you should vaccinate your pet ferret against rabies at 12 weeks of age and then annually.
What diseases can ferrets carry?
A ferret is a curious, playful, and socially active animal, but like any other animal, they also carry diseases which is harmful to you.
Ferrets carry various kinds of bacteria and parasites like Campylobacter, Salmonella, Giardia, and Cryptosporidia in their intestinal tract. Ferrets also carry ringworm fungus, fleas, and scabies mites that can infect you during food serving and cage cleaning.
So you need to be well aware while caring for and playing with your pet ferret, also make sure to vaccinate your pet.
FAQs
Can you get diseases from ferret bites?
Yes, you will get disease from ferret bites.
Do ferrets attack humans?
Yes, an aggressive personality ferret-type ferret attacks humans.
What is the main cause of death of ferrets?
Intestinal Obstructions are the major cause of death of ferrets.
Conclusion
I believe your question- can ferrets carry rabies? is answered.
A ferret carries rabies and as a ferret owner, you can easily infected from it as well. Giving rabies shots or injections and regular checkups are the ways to be rabies-free from your pet.
In case if you still have any questions related to ferrets carrying rabies, then feel free to comment.
I will help you out.