QUESTION:
I have a 7 year old ferret who has been suffering from adrenal disease for well over a year now. I know from reading information from this site as well as others that he was going to lose his fur and become quite itchy. My question is. What can I put on him that would stop or help his skin from being so rough and itchy? He is miserable and It breaks my heart seeing him this way. I don't dare bathe him since that could only make him worse. Please, if you could tell me what or if there is anything we can do for him. The vets that have dealt with him for awhile now tell me to give him a 1/4 tsp children's benedryl. But I worry that that may make him sleep too deeply and not really help.

ANSWER:
Are the vets you are using 'ferret knowledgeable"? Benedryl will have no effect on an adrenal ferret, so I have no idea why they are telling you that! Have they discussed with you your options regarding treatment, you have several? Did you decide against surgery because of his age or other health problems? Your 2 other options are LUPRON shots either once a month, or every six months, with this your ferret will have a great chance of growing back his hair and he will definitely stop itching. It treats the symptoms of adrenal disease and sometimes effects a cure. Your other option, which is less costly is a MELATONIN IMPLANT, it is a four month depot but will normally last 6 months and will treat the symptoms, but so far I do not think it will cure the problem. Both of these options are being widely used nationwide so if your vets are not familiar with these treatments then it is time to find a vet that does, for the sake of your ferret. If you need help finding a vet please let me know.