My ferret is peeing less after adrenal implant. Should I worry?

If pebbles truly does have adrenal disease their are two options. The first is surgical removal of the adrenal gland. This surgery is successful and can be done by a general practioner too. The second is an implant that is placed between the shoulder blades like a microchip. This implant can last for years and has very few side effects. Typically we do not run lots of testing for adrenal disease in ferrets we just diagnosis it off the clinical signs. It might be you need to find a new vet who is more comfortable with the treatment of adrenal disease in ferrets.

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.

Generally speaking, animals in the end stage of this disease process will eat and drink less and less. This will have a direct affect on their fecal and urinary output. I am not surprised to hear that Wally is having smaller bowel movements to which you are normally accustomed to seeing. As far as urine increase, often times insulinomas can result in a dehydrated state. Urine will often become dilute and the body will diurese fluid. This is the most likely reason for what you are seeing. I am sorry to hear about Wally's condition and wish you and him the best moving forward.

If this is the only sign your ferret is exhibiting this is probably normal, if your ferret also drinks a lot and urinates excessively i would recommend taking him to the vet in order to have a blood test to check him for kidney failure.

Hello, while I’m glad Kai has received the implant for his adrenal disease, I am very concerned by the other symptoms you describe. Ferrets are notorious for having multiple disease processes at one time, so it’s quite possible he has a primary neurologic disease or the adrenal tumor may have spread. I would recommend a thorough work up including blood work, X-rays, abdominal ultrasound to assess the adrenal glands, neurologic exam, etc. I’m worried about possible cancer or insulinoma as possible causes, though a problem within his brain or nervous system is also possible (less common). I hope Kai is able to get some help and feel better soon. His case sounds complex, so if you’d like to talk more, feel free to request a consult. Good luck!

Thanks for reaching out about Pepper and including photos. With the hair loss on the tail "rat tail", this is highly suspicious of an adrenal disease. A veterinary visit is recommended as soon as possible to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. These endocrine problems are very common in ferrets and only start as hair loss, but other internal changes are likely occurring. Treatments are possible. Good luck.

Firstly, you should prevent him from drinking or licking up any more urine. A small amount will likely not harm him, but larger amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and diarrhea). Keep a bowl or bottle of fresh, clean water available to him at all times. If he becomes lethargic, stops eating or begins to vomit or have diarrhea then he should be examined by your veterinarian.