Ferrets And Fleas

Question
I have never had any other animals in my apartment other than my 3 ferrets and they have never been outside... is it possible for them to still get fleas? I have found little black bugs but my boyfriend said he found some on him too but i know fleas dont attach to humans... so i'm not sure what to do! I have never had a flea problem before and i dont know what to do... should i bathe them all just in case?

Answer
Hello Nikki, thank you for asking!

Ferrets can certainly get fleas, and 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.  They can also contract nasty little parasites from fleas, such as tapeworms.  

As far as what you can do about the fleas, there are several options.  Marshall farms has a product called Ferret Flea and Tick Shampoo that works well.  It is safe to use, nontoxic and formulated specifically for ferrets.  There is a spray form, but I do not recammend it.  Sprays will not be as effective and you risk getting it in their eyes.  Make sure to bathe all of your ferrets at the same time.  

As far as what else you can use, certain kitten flea shampoos are ok. The most important thing to remember is that Pyrethrin should be the ONLY active ingredient.  DO NOT use any product that contains organophosphates, carbamates or petroleum distillates.  These can be VERY harmful to your ferret or fatal!

Remember, NEVER use ANY flea treatment formulated for Cats or Dogs!!  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.  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.

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.