Zombie Ferret

Question
I was in Petco a little while ago, and saw the most adorable ferret, and I noticed something quite a bit different with him.  He wasn't terribly playful with everyone else, and when i picked him up  he slid through my hands like melted butter.  Now, i have previously owned ferrets (had one that lived for about 10 years) and i am fairly aware of their behavioral patterns. Up all night, trying to escape from their cages, playful, somewhat messy.  I saw this poor ferret in petco and couldn't trust him with anyone else, because to them he would probably just a troublesome pet.  I bought him against my family wishes, and have noticed he is not playful except for about 15 minutes during the day when i wake him up and try to make him play.  He sleeps throughout the night, and all day.  He had not even finished a small bowl of food since i bought him (which was actually on saturday) He doesn't drink too much, and he doesnt seem to go to the bathroom all too often either.  I am concerned about my beautiful kit, and I would like to know if I am over-mothering him or if this is a concern. I want him to be a healthy happy little tyke, and I am not willing to return him just so I can have a healthier ferret.  Help?

Answer
Dear Kathryn,

First of all, I am sorry that your little baby isn't feeling perky. My heart goes out to you and I will certainly pray that he gets on the mend ASAP.

Secondly, for you and for all other readers, NEVER purchase a "sickly-looking" animal, even if you think he may risk going home with less knowledgeable folks.  You are just asking for heartache and you will spend a lot of money.  

When you get a new pet, even if it comes will a clean bill of health, you should take it to your vet immediately - same day is ideal, but I like to wait a couple of days to assess behaviors.  Especially if the ferret is lethargic.  

I can not offer a solution to you except that you must take the animal to the vet.  He obviously isn't eating or drinking much and could be dangerously dehydrated.  Check for dehydration by pinching his scruff (the skin on the back of the neck): if it springs back he is hydrated, if it is slow to return you have the opposite.  If the pinch mark stays in place like play-doh, this ferret is close to death and needs immediate attention.

Please take the ferret to the vet.  Let me know how it goes!

Sincerely

Stephenie