Ferret, not usual self !

Question
QUESTION: Hi Cynthia,my ferret  stopped playing, and eating meat a week ago..
A desexed female,i dont know how old, but i have had her for 5yrs..
She sleeping a lot more, and still eating dry food..
But not the raw meat she used to enjoy..
No more playtime !
I love her dearly, thinking it is just old age creeping up ? Have been putting off taking to vet, subcionciously too scared, i think ! But want her to get better..
Any advice, would be very much appreciated, Thankyou,
Bron...

ANSWER: Hello Bron!  A ferret that is at least 5 years old (or possibly more) is considered to be a senior or geriatric ferret. 5 years of age could still be considered more of an "older adult",  but regardless she is indeed getting up in years!  Most veterinary clinics consider ferrets geriatric at 3 years of age, if you can imagine that!  

It is true that age does begin to creep up on them as they get older, similar to people.  While every ferret ages differently, it might be wise to take her to the vet for a checkup.  Increased amounts of sleeping and perhaps not as much interest in treats are not necessarily indicative of a health problem (especially in older pets who sleep more anyway), but there could always be an underlying reason that may need medical attention.  In a worst case scenario and a condition is found, it is certainly better to be aware of it sooner than later.  This way, it can be addressed and promptly treated with the possibility of a better prognosis.  

Even with a 5  year old girl, you may as well have several healthy years left.  Although she will begin to wind down more and more as she ages, there is certainly the possibility that she will remain perfectly healthy for along time.  I remember my first ferret, Jahbu, lived to be 9  and never had one health problem besides a chipped canine tooth!  Of course, each ferret is different.  Some live 2 years, some 7, and I have heard of those that live into their early teens!  Much is dependent on diet, genetics and annual veterinary exams.

In my opinion, you should not hesitate to make an appointment with your veterinarian.  If you are concerned, some simple blood work can be run to show how the internal organs are functioning.  X-rays are also a great diagnostic tool that your veterinarian might opt to use.  Two good things will come from a visit from the vet.  First of all, it will help calm your own worry.  Secondly, if a problem is found, it can be addressed sooner and have a greater probability of a successful treatment.

Please let me know how this works out for you!  I will be wondering how she is doing.

-Cindy P.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Cynthia for your help !
I have taken Beez to the vet, although he didnt know a great deal about ferrets...Gave antibiotics ( For Cats) in a paste, syringe..
I have tried so many foods to entice her!
She is liking, Whiskas Lactose Free Milk !
Still eating dry food ( Cat Bickies ).
Scouting around for another vet, who knows about ferrets...
Thankyou so much for your concern and advice !  
I will keep you informed, if you wish..
Regards, Bron..

Answer
Thank you so much for keeping me posted!  My apologies in the delayed reply.  I get many new questions a day, so some of my follow ups get neglected.  

I'm so glad she is doing well!  Indeed, please keep me posted to her progress.  

If you would like, I would be more than happy to try to locate a reputable ferret friendly vet in your area.  All I would need is your zip code.  

Again, Thank you for the kind words!

-Cindy P.