Ferret possible blockage

Question
My son adopted a 5 month old ferret 2 weeks ago.  The first week he pooped a lot and they seemed normal size, but this past week he doesn't seem to be pooping as much and it is smaller.  I started him on the laxative 3 days ago for hairballs (can't remember the name) but it hasn't changed other than being a little runnier.  He coughs occasionally but not often. Should I be concerned?  What else should I be doing?  What should I watch out for?

Answer
Hello Kim,

I have a few questions that might make the situation a bit clearer.  How is he acting?  Is he eating and drinking normally?  Is there any vomiting?  Does his abdomen seem to feel painful?  

The fact that he is having small stool is very concerning, and it is imperative your ferret is seen TODAY.  A partial intestinal blockage is an emergency situation that needs to be seen by your vet ASAP.  He needs x-rays either confirm our rule out a GI blockage, and surgery immediately if it is determined as the cause.  A blockage is a life threatening situation, which is why it needs an evaluation ASAP.  Even if an obstruction is ruled out, small stools can be a sign of some other underlying cause.  

Watch out for any vomiting, diarrhea, a decrease or lack of appetite and a painful abdomen.  If he stops eating, the situation has become more serious since ferrets have a high metabolism and need to eat every 4-6 hours.     

-Cindy P.