can i get my ferret sick?

Question
can my ferrets get my colds or flu, and how would I know?

Answer
Yes, ferrets can get certain human viruses and colds.  Some of the symptoms include coughing, sneezing, lethargy, decreased appetite and fever.  Any one ferret may have only one of these symptoms or several.  Luckily, ferrets cannot pass the cold back to you.    

If you see your ferret exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is wise to bring him or her to a veterinarian.  Although colds generally clear up in a week or so, some of them need antibiotics if the symptoms are particularly bad.  Some colds can be life threatening while others are very mild.       

If you have any specific questions regarding colds, please do not hesitate to ask.