Tapeworms

Question
What is the treatment and dosage for tapeworms in ferrets?

Answer
Hello Suzanne,

Tapeworms are often given to ferrets through fleas.  This can be dangerous due to the combination of external and parasites, and the small body size of the ferret.  Since they have a higher body temperature than cats and dogs, they are the preferred food source.  As far as how your little guys got the buggies, humans act as a wonderful method of transportation.  It is likely one of you unknowingly brought them inside, and your ferrets looked tasty!  You do want to seek treatment ASAP because ferrets are small can can become easily anemic from the loss of blood.  It is best to get this remedied ASAP, especially since your ferrets can become anemic quickly.    

The only way to diagnose a tapeworm infection is by fecal analysis.  Bring a sample of the feces to the veterinarian and have it looked at under a microscope.  Unfortunately if your ferret has one type of parasite, it may have more than one.  Tapeworms, giardia and coccidia (etc, etc) are all treated in different ways, and one medication does not necessarily treat ALL parasites.  This is why it is important to get a full fecal analysis to make sure there are not other types of organisms living alongside the tapeworms. Also, these organisms are transmittable to other ferrets and pets, so have ALL of your pets dewormed at the same time!

The best way to manage a tapeworm infection is to treat the fleas and the tapeworms separately.  The topical Feline Revolution (1/2 tube of the <5 lb) is a safe and easy way to control fleas, ear mites, etc.  This WILL NOT take care of the tapeworms, but will control and kill the fleas for a month before it needs another application.  Since it controls the flea population, you are also managing for the reinfection of tapeworms since that is how most pets get them in the first place!

NEVER use ANY flea treatment formulated for Cats or Dogs unless directed by your vet!!  Also, Never EVER use flea collars, dips, sprays or powders!  These can be VERY dangerous or life threatening.  Be aware that topical (drop-form) long lasting medications cannot be washed off, and if your ferret has a reaction it can be SERIOUS (the only one I recammend is feline revolution for LESS than 5 lbs).  I do not recammend any over the counter topical flea medication without consulting your veterinarian FIRST.    

Remember that flea treatment is just as important in the environment as on the pet!  Make sure to wash all bedding in hot water and vacuum SEVERAL TIMES to remove any remaining eggs or fleas. Flea bombs are another choice, but make sure you remove your ferrets from the premises for at least 24 hrs afterwards.

One important thing to remember is to ONLY buy products such as Revolution from your vet, NOT online or a pet store! Some of these products are counterfeit, and you cannot be positive that the flea medication you are giving is the right dose/chemicals with over the counter medication.  Especially with flea control, IT IS A POISON.  You have to be VERY careful what you put on your pets!!!   

The usual treatment for most parasites in ferrets is ivermectin.  You will need to ask your veterinarian for the appropriate dose, and only he or she can prescribe it as an injection or orally.  You may have to administer it several times and recheck the fecal every few weeks until the parasite eggs are no longer seen. Do not give ANY feline or canine dewormers to your ferret without consulting your vet.  Like flea medication, this is POISON and needs to be given carefully and only by prescription.          

I hope this helps and your home is soon bug-free!  If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to ask.  If you have any specific questions regarding certain flea treatments, it is ALWAYS the best idea to contact your veterinarian.  

-Cindy P.