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Illustrated Articles

Small Mammals + Diagnosis

  • The complete blood count (CBC) assesses different parameters of the cells in the blood including total number, appearance, size, and shape. Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets comprise the cellular component of the blood.

  • Lymphosarcoma ( also known as Lymphoma) is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for filtering debris from the death of cells adn bacteria, adn production of antibodies to help fight disease. Tumors that affect the lymphatic system can prevent normal function and can affect multiple organ systems. Lymphosarcoma is the mosst common hematopoietic cancer in the ferret and in other animal species as well.

  • Ferrets are naturally curious animals, and it is common for them to chew and swallow foreign material, which cdan cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset or obstruction. Typical swallowed objects include rubber bands, bits of rubber toy, foam, remote control buttons and other similar items. Hairballs are another potential cause of GI obstruction. Hairballs (trichobezoars) are compacted wads of fur, which may develop over time as a ferret grooms adn swallows fur. Unlike cats, ferrets seldom vomit up hairballs, adn the compacted fur may ause gastrointestinal (GI) upset or obstruction.

  • Hind limb weakness is a clinical sign, meaning that it is an indication of a problem, but not an actual disease entity itself. There can be varying degrees of weakness from a mild, transient unsteady gait, to complete loss of function of the hind limbs. I would like to approach this subject by going through some of the potential diseases and the types of weakness that result.

  • Having your pet properly prepared for a blood test helps to ensure that the results are as accurate and reliable as possible. Preparation for these two types of tests is slightly different. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions before your appointment. It is important that you follow these instructions exactly to ensure accurate test results.