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Why is my ferret collapsing, drooling, and shaking after litter use?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | 8 years and 1 month old | 1lb

My ferret went into cat litter tray to urinate, few moments later, heard a loud skreech, she fell flat to the ground, she has heavy sulliva, coming from her mouth, will I get her put down, she’s been pausing while walking for a few months now, shaking at times, took her to vet, he said may be arthritis, send me away , please help

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Bailey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 25th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Penny. She may have injured her back while climbing in/out of the litter box. Intervertebral disc disease is something that older ferrets can get. Sometimes, they can slip a disc in their spine and it can cause severe pain and discomfort. She may have slipped a disc when exiting the litter box. Ferrets can get arthritis in their spine as well. At her age, it is likely she does have some arthritis but because of the sudden onset of symptoms you described when she come out of the litter box, it makes me think she may have intervertebral disc disease. Anti-inflammatory medication can help keep her comfortable. You should talk to your vet for some or try going to see another veterinarian if your vet doesn't want to help Penny. Ferret's can also get adrenal disease that can cause a variety of symptoms. I will attach a link about adrenal disease in ferrets so that you can see if Penny has any of the symptoms. Hope this has helped. Thank you for using pet coach.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=1983

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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