Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Ferrets sneezing, green diarrhea: Can they catch my stomach bug?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

All 3 of my ferrelets have been sneezing every now and then ever since we got them.. but just yesterday, all of them has started to have watery green diarrhea and they have sneezed a bit more than usual. But they have seemed to be acting normal. Playing, eating and drinking. And I'm just now getting over the stomach bug, at least I'm hoping that's what it is. Could they have caught it? What can I give them? And I dont have the money for a vet right now.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2018

Ferrets cannot contract infectious diseases from people. So you not have to worry that you have passed anything on to them. However, they are susceptible to a number of their own infectious diseases and, depending on their vaccine status may be infected with distemper virus (https://www.petcoach.co/article/canine-distemper-in-ferrets-cause-prevention-and-vaccines/). This disease is almost always fatal in ferrets. If your ferrets are unvaccinated, it is very important that you take your ferrets to see the veterinarian. Unfortunately, there is nothing you will be able to do for them at home and they will certainly need veterinary medical care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Food & Nutrition

My ferret has diarrhea. Could his wet food be making him sick?

It can be the wet food but it could also be other things. It sounds as Fierros is suffering from a gastrointestinal condition, possibly an infection. it could also be due to ingestion of a foreign body material. i would recommend taking him to the vet the first chance you get, he will need to be checked first, if the vet thinks it's a simple gastrointestinal infection he will need an anti vomiting injection, antibiotics and a special food for a few days in order to get better.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My ferret has green diarrhea after new ferret. Is it ECE virus?

You are correct to assume the green slimy diarrhea is often associated with ECE (a coronavirus). This disease is usually self limiting but animal can suffer from dehydration, mal-nutrition and secondary bacterial infections. Monitor closely for clinical signs of slowing down. If so, it is highly recommended you see a veterinarian.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my ferret still sneezing and having odd poop after treatment?

If they are otherwise well, eating, palyful and not losing weight I would continue to monitor them closely. Ferrets are susceptible to a number of upper respiratory viruses just as we are and they tend to be self limiting, resolving over a couple of weeks (and do not cure with antibiotics). Be cautious about using any possible irritants such as air fresheners etc which may be aggravating the symptoms. If there condition worsens, they lose weight, appetite or energy then a recheck by a ferret familiar vet would be recommended.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My ferret has a fever. Did he catch my flu? How to protect others?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Ferrets are very susceptible to the flu, which they can get from humans and spread to each other. In some cases, infection can be life threatening. I recommend separating Cheech from his companion immediately and having him seen by a vet. You should wear a disposable mask and gloves when handling your ferrets until you recover. Your vet can stabilize him if necessary, and prescribe the appropriate medication to keep him comfortable. I hope all is well!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My ferret is lethargic, not eating, and has green stool. Is he sick?

Poor Badger! His intestinal issues can be caused by viral or bacterial infections or intestinal parasites. While certain viral infections run their course, I recommend having him seen by a vet because you describe him as having lower energy levels and appetite. Badger may need some supportive care to help stabilize him. To speed up the diagnostic process, I recommend bringing a stool sample from Badger in a disposable container so your vet can check for intestinal parasites. I hope this helps and that Badger feels better soon!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My ferrets are sneezing and less active. Do they have a cold?

Ferrets do get upper respiratory infections or colds just like us. Usually they get better with rest and no treatment is necessary. If the eyes or nose get green or yellow discharge or they stop eating they may have a secondary bacterial infection and would need an exam to confirm the diagnosis and antibiotics. Please do not give human medication. Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My ferret has diarrhea but is eating and acting normal. What's wrong?

Thanks for reaching out and including a photo. This appears to be a common clinical sign of a viral diarrhea common viral enteritis (ECE). It is often complicated with secondary bacterial infections. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Antibiotics and fluids (if dehydrated) are the minimum, but if severe might necessitate hospitalization with an IV catheter. This is contagious to other ferrets. Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share