Hello Dr. Williams:

I am sorry to barge in like this, but I read on the Ferret Central site that you do help with the diagnostic of sick ferrets.

This is my ferret, Princess. She was adopted when she was 1 year old (I was told), and I estimate that she is 6 or 7 years old now. She is never in contact with other animals, and neither is anyone here in our home. She was never vaccinated against rabies or distemper (we never saw any need since she is always away from other pets and people that have pets).

Recently (about 3 weeks ago) her left eye appeared swollen and sort of looking "bigger". The lachrymal gland/canal is also puffy and reddish, and when she wakes up, it’s watery.

It does not appear to be painful to her, but that’s hard to tell. She’s a spoiled girl, and she complains when things don’t go her way, especially if we hold her when she doesn’t want to be held. J

I have been using the Fresh Eyes eye wash, and it appeared to be helping. On the past 2 or 3 days, this "cloud" appeared on her left eye. It seens to be on the surface, not like a cataract. I also noted that about 2 weeks, her tail hair looks very thin. She was never one to have a very furry tail, but this is to bare for her. I also noticed that her fur is dull, although she is not sheding it around.

Also for the past week she has been tired. She usually wakes up and comes to the kitchen door (she is never caged) when she hears the car. She just stays in her bed and we have to wake her up. She eats and drinks as always, and her feces and urine are normal. She eats Yams regular cat food, and we put a few drops of Ferretone on her water.

There aren’t – as far as we can tell – any vets here in the area (Long Island, NY) that knows ferrets well. Many years ago my first ferret need care for cancer and he was misdiagnosed – the treatment actually made him get much sicker. I would appreciate if you have any reference of a knowledgeable one.

Thank you so much for your time. I appreciate immensely your assistance.