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Why is my ferret suddenly peeing everywhere with swollen genitals?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Female | spayed | 4 years and 3 months old

Hello, my ferret stopped going in litter pot. She is ~3 years old and was trained to do so prior. Also noticed that her genitals are swollen. Also my another ferret died not that long time ago. Didn’t see genitals swollen before so I thought it’s depression. But she goes few times in litter pot and all another time in the wrong place and just randomly in one corner. What this might be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 22nd, 2018

Normally these are signs of going into heat, but since your ferret is spayed it is more likely that she has a problem with her adrenal glands. This could be an adrenal tumor that is causing the signs of estrus. You will need to take Lariska to a vet, preferably one that has experience with ferrets, for an exam. Because her body thinks it is in estrus, she is peeing and pooping everywhere to spread her scent for potential mates.
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