My ferret has a swollen, bleeding cut on its ear. What should I do?

Hi there, It looks like Emily could either have an old injury that has become infected, or she may have an oil gland that has become infected. I would recommend having her checked by your vet, she may need a skin test and some antibiotics. In the meantime I'd recommend cleaning the area with a mild soap and rinsing it well to avoid leaving any residue, I hope that helps and thanks for using Pet Coach.

It sounds like the biggest concern is Binker's foot. A swollen infected foot can lead to a body wide infection, or sepsis. I would not wait on this, but would encourage you to have him seen by a veterinarian quickly. It is possible it is swollen from trauma rather than infection. Your veterinarian may want to perform some x-rays. Once a diagnosis has been established then they may consider using antibiotics and /or pain medication that is safe for ferrets. The spot on his back can be evaluated at the same time and determine if any treatment is needed for the skin. I hope Binker improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

I am worried that the area on Ralph could be an infection or even a tumor. I would highly encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian soon. They may recommend antibiotics, or possibly a biopsy. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Hi there! It's hard to tell from the picture but it does look like Loco might have a little scrape or scab on his chin. It may be due to irritation from his bath or trauma if he has been scratching at it. Keep a close eye on it - if it spreads or worsens, swells, seems painful, or begins oozing, take him back in to see your veterinarian. You can gently clean it with warm water and try to apply some Neo-Sporin but Loco may rub it off! Good luck and I hope Loco feels better soon!

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 Loki and including photos. Could be a spider bite or other injury? Concerned that the black area is dead (necrotic) tissue. A veterinary visit is recommended, even though does not seem painful. Some spider bites contain toxins that can spread. Histiocytomas are other common dermal lesions but are usually very pruritic. 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.