My ferret has ear buildup and scabs. What home care can I provide?

Many ferrets are prone to copious amounts of ear wax. If left untreated it can lead to an ear infection. It is best to do regular ear cleaning at home. I suggest once a week. You can use this ear cleaner or one like it. Please don't use oil or peroxide or vinegar or any of the other weird things people report they use in the ears. Use an actual ear cleaner. ( https://www.ferret.com/item/marshall-ferret-ear-cleaner/650704/ ) Here is a link to an article about how to clean the ears: ( https://www.petfinder.com/pet-care/small-and-furry-care/tips-cleaning-ferret-ears/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Thanks for reaching out about Naila and including a photo. The exudate from the ear is indicative of possible ear mites, infection or other problems. You are correct in that you need to see a veterinarian. You should indicate you are worried and if they can not help you, seek another veterinarian. Don't think this can wait until next week. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Roo and including photos. Did the veterinarian take an ear swab and look under the microscope for a diagnosis? All ferrets (and cats) need to be treated. If does take some time for animals to respond to the medications, as the Revolution only kills juveniles and adults, not eggs. So need to wait for eggs to hatch, to stop mite cycle. Good luck.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely due to an ear infection. How often you use these depends on which of the tabs you are referring to. I would check the product instructions and follow that. I recommend that you have Oreo evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Your veterinarian would be able to check what type of infection is present and treat accordingly. Usually this resolves with topical therapy. Good luck and have a good day!

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Hamtaro's ear- from the pictures you sent, it looks very red and inflamed. Ear mites may be a cause as well as fungal infections. A veterinarian can rule out ear mites with an ear cytology sample (basically a swab or sample of material from the ear) and a fungal culture of the hair near or around the ear. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. I would try and keep the area clean for now. Mild cleansing cloth or 3% hydrogen peroxide to the affected area may help until a diagnosis can be made with your veterinarian. I hope this helps and best of luck to you!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If he truly has mites, they are not going to completely go away with the peroxide so if the ears get dirty again as before, I recommend you have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. If properly diagnosed, ear mites can be easily treated. Best of luck!

Thanks for reaching out about Santiago and including a photo. Dermal infections or a histiocytoma are common dermal conditions in ferrets. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Monitor for self trauma and scratching, as if opens up, more likely to become infected. Good luck.