Best option for ferret probiotic?

Question

I want to get my ferrets a good probiotic, though I can't find an actual ferret specific brand at any local pet stores. If need be I will order some online, but I would like to know if there are any comparable types of probiotics that I could use instead? I'm planning on taking a trip to a vitamin store sometime this weekend to check out melatonin for the upcoming fall and would appreciate any tips or hints on the probiotics...thanks!

Answer 1

I wondered the same thing as Me Mosa - why do you think your ferret needs a probiotic? Does his/her p**p look seedy? That's usually a sign that a ferret does need a probiotic, but as long as the p**p looks good, then you really don't *need* a probiotic. As mentioned above though, it shouldn't hurt to give it, but I think it's best saved for stressful situations and when you think your ferret is truly in need of it. Anyway, my vet recently recommended using Bene-Bac for my ferrets (their p**p was looking seedy from an antibiotic they were recently on). You can get it from either of these sites: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/pr... or http://www.jbpet.com/Bene-Bac-Gel,649.ht... It's not a ferret specific product, but is safe for them to use. I'm also not sure if it can be found in pet shops or not. My vet told me to only do one half click, which would equal 1/2 gram. If your ferret likes ferretvite, nutri-cal, or something similar, then he/she will also like the Bene-Bac (mine love it and would gulp down the whole tube if I let them!).

As for melatonin, one way to help your ferret naturally produce more melatonin is to provide them with more darkness. Here's a site with a little more info on that (scroll down to the bottom, titled "PREVENTING ADRENAL DISEASE"): http://www.ferretfacts.com/ferret-adrena... If you're interested, here's a short article I found about melatonin and prevention of adrenal gland disease in ferrets:

http://weah4.tripod.com/id63.html

Answer 2

Why does your ferret need a probiotic?  Is he sick or on antibiotics?  I don't think it would hurt your ferret but it is likely not necessary if your ferret is not sick or on meds.

As far as melatonin goes, are you using it as a 'prevenatative'?  There really is no medical evidence that backs melatonin as an effective preventive measure against adrenal disease but it wouldn't harm your ferret either.  If it makes you feel better to use it, go for it...peace of mind is priceless.  Just know that you could be wasting your money AND melatonin is not a magic pill.  You will still have to look out for signs and symptoms of adrenal disease.

Keep in mind your veterinarian is your best asset!  Make an apointment and bring up your concerns.  If you have a good 'ferret vet', he/she can give you better advice then anyone on here can.

Answer 3

prozyme

for cats and dogs but will work on ferrets as well

you can get a free sample just pay 6.99 shipping and the sample is full size, regular price is like 30 bux

http://www.smartcart.com/prozyme/cgi/dis...