Ferret allergies

Question
  Ok well Im thinking its seasonal allergies since I dont use fabric softener at all, the litter I use is yesterdays news, and she
eats Innova evo ferret diet, though I did just switch to this food from the low grade marshalls (so I really hope its not due to
their new diet!)
  I dont use any harsh chemical cleaners only enviornment safe products. Other than the food change theres no other
underlying cause it seems. I wonder since they are free roaming in 2 large rooms of my house that maybe it could be due to
the carpet (I dont know the last time I had it cleaned) so maybe this could be a cause as well?
Im thinking its seasonal and not a cold since shes had this for a couple weeks now and shes as vibrant (eating and drinking
well) as ever plus my other one hasn't had any problems either. Since its been getting warmer here for spring I've started to
open windows to let in fresh air, so this is probably the cause.
  The only problem I have is giving her steroid injections (I dont believe in this, due to the long term effects and unknowns),
so if you know of anything "more safe" that may be able to alleviate her symptoms please let me know! Though I am going to
bring her to the vet for their opinion as well.
  One more question I had is, do ferrets need heartworm tests? I received a letter from my vet informing me shes in need of
one, but when I called they were unsure and said ferrets dont need them (though the exotic vet wasnt on call at this time).
They said to disregard it, but a few days ago I received another reminder for it. Im confused now, and I dont trust talking to
the receptionist there!
Sorry this is so long! I just want to make sure Im doing everything I can for my babies, and I want the best for them!
Thanks again!
Cristina

Answer
Hello again Christina!

It does sound like it might be seasonal allergies since most of the other possibilities have been eliminated.  You could bring her to the vet and run a blood test to determine exactly what is causing the allergy, assuming your vet does not find another reason.  Using the results, certain companies can create a serum for monthly injection.  This is a much better choice than steroids, although the test and serum are pricey!

Good question about heart worm!  No ferrets do not need heart worm tests.  The letter you got in the mail is for canines which should be tested regularly.  There are feline versions of the test, but it is extremely rare in cats and only can detect female worms!  An infected cat can only hold one heart worm, while canines can hold up to 20!  This means the test is correct 50% of the time in an afflicted small animal. Also, since heart worm is transmitted by mosquitoes, and ferrets are indoor pets, the possibility is almost nil. This does not mean it cannot happen, it just has a very low probability of occurring and a poor chance of detection.   

Thank you for being such a concerned mom!  I hope this information has proven useful.

-Cindy P.