ferret breathing irregular

Question
I have two males fixed and descented, a sable and an albino both about 2 years old. The albino started breathing faster and harder then regular. I am worried could be heart condition or pneumonia. I use nonclumping freshstep litter and house is kept cool. They always have fresh water and never go outside. Is this an emergency or can I wait til morning to take him to a vet?

Answer
Breathing faster and harder is usually a sign of congestive heart failure.  It is serious if that is what it is and can not always be treated.  Pneumonia can cause that too and is treatable.  I'd keep a close eye on him and if he worsens take him to the emergency clinic, otherwise he should be ok until tomorrow.  It's sad, but albinos seem to have more problems then other ferrets.

Mary