Name
Diagnosis and Management of Gallbladder Disease in Three Ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)
Date & Time
Monday, August 26, 2024, 3:40 PM - 4:05 PM
Description

Gallbladder disease is infrequently reported in ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) but can lead to severe or life threatening illness if not treated appropriately. This case series documents the management of a spectrum of gallbladder disease in three ferrets. All three ferrets presented with nonspecific gastrointestinal signs including severe lethargy, anorexia, and/or vomiting for 2-3 days prior to presentation. Additionally, all ferrets had a leukocytosis characterized by moderate to severe neutrophilia, and elevated hepatobiliary enzyme activity including ALT, ALP, GGT, and/or hyperbilirubinemia. All patients had abdominal ultrasound or computed tomography to aid in the diagnosis of hepatobiliary disease. The first ferret had cervical lymphadenopathy and lethargy noted on physical examination. Imaging revealed cholelithiasis with bile duct obstruction. Cholecystectomy was performed and the patient was hospitalized for 2 days prior to discharge, and all clinical signs and blood work abnormalities resolved approximately 6 weeks later. Ultrasonography of the second ferret showed debris in the gallbladder and bile duct dilation without evidence of mechanical obstruction, consistent with cholecystitis. The patient was conservatively managed at home on antibiotics and liver support medications. Clinical signs and bloodwork abnormalities resolved in 8 weeks. The third ferret was presented for icterus and anorexia. Ultrasonography showed diffusely dilated biliary and intrahepatic tracts prompting cholecystocentesis, which cultured heavy growth of Escherichia coli sensitive to fluoroquinolones. Blood work and imaging are essential in the diagnosis and management of cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. Further research is indicated to explore risk factors and best management strategies for ferrets with gallbladder disease.

Location Name
Studio 9 & 10
Full Address
New Orleans Marriott
555 Canal St
New Orleans, LA 70130
United States
Session Type
Lecture (25 Min)