Hypothermia in Ferrets

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Hypothermia means your ferret rapidly loses body temperature due to the extreme cold and goes to shock, while frostbite happens when a localized damage is done to the skin by extreme cold.
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We don’t have snow in my part of the world so I often enjoy to see ferrets frolicking in snow on YouTube!

It looks like they’re having the time of their lives and and I love seeing them snorkling in the snow ?

HOWEVER … please understand that overexposure to severe cold could cause your ferret to get hypothermia or frostbite, despite your ferret’s lush and thick fur coat so please, please, please DO NOT leave your ferret out in the snow for long!

You don’t need to take your ferret out for a walk when it’s cold and if you take it out to play in the snow piles, please bring it in after a few minutes so that your ferret doesn’t end up with either of these two conditions ?

If you’re worried about the condition of your ferret after it’s been out in the snow (see symptoms below), gently massage its body and extremities. If you have a heating pad, set it on low and put your ferret on it, then check it frequently to make sure it’s okay.

Some of the symptoms include:

Weakness

Shivering

Muscle Stiffness

Fixed and dilated pupils

Low heart and respiratory rates

If you notice any discoloration of your ferret’s skin or limbs, get it to the vet IMMEDIATELY.

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There aren’t many articles about Frostbite or Hypothermia in Ferrets but you can read the ones I’ve found here …

Hypothermia in Small Mammals (PetPlace)

Outdoor Dangers by Mary van Dahm (WeaselWords) (scroll down to Hypothermia)

(Last updated November 2019)

DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this page is not meant to replace seeing a veterinarian if you think your ferret is ill. It’s only meant to supply general information on a particular illness which was obtained either from personal experience with my sick ferrets, or from books and/or the Internet.