Enlarged Spleen

Question
Okay, my ferret, Latte Expresso has an enlarged spleen. I am from a very poor family and I myself don't have steady work. I'll be leaving for college soon and I don't know what I can do for her right now. The vet wants to do ultrasounds and x-rays, but not blood work. I have the money for blood work, but not the other stuff. What do you think I should do? I don't think that she's in pain and she's still eating and drinking, but she's very lethargic. She really just likes to lay flat on her stomach on the bed most of the time, though she will play a little bit and perks up for treats. I just want her to have a good quality of life and I'm not sure how much of that she has by just laying around all the time and she's only 3 years old. I love my little fuzzy and so do her companions, Mocha Java (7) and Creamer (3). Is there anything I can do for her at home to help? Or is there something that the vets can do that I could afford. Thank you for you time and help!

Sincerely,

Krissy Fishel

Answer
Hello Krissy,

An enlarged spleen would need a full workup.  Your veterinarian may be worried that there are tumors on the spleen that can only be detected by x-rays and ultrasounds.  I do realize this is expensive =(  Blood-work is a good idea. I'm not sure why your vet is hesitant to run it.  It could tell us a bit more about what is going on.  At the very least, try to have both blood-work (CBC/GHP/Lytes) and x-rays (chest/abdomen) done.  This will not give you the definitive diagnosis that an ultrasound will in detecting tumors, but it will help.  Also, it would be cheaper.  Ultrasounds can be very pricey! The BEST possible thing is to do all three, but if you are tight with money, do what you can.  Also, do not hesitate to shop around for cheaper prices!  Some clinics charge more, while another down the road can be less expensive.  This is especially true for surgeries, which I have seen as much as a $600 difference!  

I wish I could be of more help, but this is a situation that needs further diagnostics.  An enlarged spleen can be caused by many things, and same with lethargy.  Your veterinarian needs to run more tests to find out what is wrong with your little Latte.

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do at home but try to keep her comfortable and happy.  I understand what you mean about quality of life.  It's a good sign that she is eating and drinking, although the lethargy concerns me.  Try to keep an eye on her for any changes.

-Cindy P.