My ferret keeps sneezing and panting. Could it be a hairball?

It sounds to me like Frankie may have a fur ball stuck in her throat or tummy. You can get a product called laxapet that helps to clear this. Alternatively it could be a dose of ferret flu so you may need to take her to the vet for an examination and to get treatment.

Thanks for reaching out about Ellie. An ingested foreign body, hairball or other, is common in young ferrets. A veterinarian should be seen if the coughing continues as these small animals have few reserves. Coughing could also be an indication of a respiratory problem. Remember ferrets can contract influenza. Good luck.

Without more of a history, it is difficult to determine if this is cause for concern. Monitor for lethargy, discharge from the eyes/nose/mouth, decreased appetite, fever, loose stool or weight loss. Since they are "new" to you, an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating ferrets would be recommended. At the very least, Wednesday will get a clean bill of health and you will get peace of mind.

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I would be very concerned as this can be a sign of gastric disease. Ferrets often get foreign objects stuck in their guts, and can try to vomit but nothing comes up. I would recommend getting Zelda to a vet right away and have some x-rays done, as Zelda might need surgery. Best of luck with Zelda!

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.

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.

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.