Introduction

• Cause: ambient temperature 21°C/69.8°F or higher, particularly above 30°C/86°F
• Signs: prostration, excess salivation, shallow rapid respiration, death.
• Diagnosis: elevated body temperature, history.
• Treatment: controlled cooling of body temperature, fluids (subcutaneous, intravenous, intraperitoneal).
• Prognosis: poor.

Pathogenesis

Etiology

• Elevated or prolonged ambient temperatures; usually, above 30°C/86°F, but effects may be seen as low as 21°C/69.8°F in ferrets if humidity is elevated particularly in ill, obese, stressed or pregnant ferrets.
• Ferrets have a thick coat and do not have well developed sweat glands, which makes them susceptible to heat stress and heat stroke.

Predisposing factors

General

• Pre-existing cardiovascular or respiratory disease.
• Obesity.
• Stress.
• Pregnant.

Specific

• A stressed ferret may be one with poor husbandry, nutrition or any concurrent illness or injury.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Outcomes