Vaccinations

Vaccination protects your ferret against distemper which is a very serious viral disease, which can be fatal.  This disease is quite common in dogs, especially those from pet shops. It is a highly contagious viral disease which is commonly seen in Hong Kong amongst unvaccinated dogs.  In ferrets the virus causes severe respiratory signs (such as sneezing, coughing, pneumonia) fever, skin problems and even death.

The vaccine is an important part of your ferret’s health care program, however there is a significant potential for reactions.  Most are not serious (discomfort at the site of injection, tiredness, reduced appetite) and usually go away without treatment.

However some can be life threatening, such as allergic reactions: bumpy itchy skin, vomiting/diarrhea and even death. We will advise that you wait at the clinic for 30 minutes after the vaccine to watch out for severe reactions.

Our veterinarian will discuss the pros and cons of vaccinating your ferret during a consultation in order for you to make an informed decision on whether you want to vaccinate or not.  If your ferret has had a previous reaction it is important that you tell the vet about this.

Other vaccines

• Rabies

  
  Rabies vaccines can be given to ferrets in Hong Kong, but this is not legally necessary (as it is in dogs for licensing). There is also the potential for significant vaccine reaction.
  As there is no rabies within Hong Kong and ferrets are kept as indoor pets here we do not recommend the vaccine (other than for export purposes)

• Influenza

  
  Ferrets are susceptible to the influenza virus, and can pick it up from infected humans. The symptoms will be similar, with nasal discharge, sneezing, fevers and feeling sick. If you have the flu please wear a mask at home and do not handle your ferret if possible.

There are no vaccines available for flu in ferrets.