Can you use Neosporin on ferrets?

Question

My ferret has a sore on his side that hasn't been going away. I was wondering if it's safe to use Neosporin?

Answer 1

That description usually (but not always) indicates a mast cell tumor though there are other skin tumors ferrets can get, one even more common.

Unlike mast cell tumors in other animals these are almost never serious in ferrets.  For ferrets the only known malignant mast cell tumors have been internal ones of the GI tract which almost never exist.

Still, they are uncomfortable because of the itching caused by the levels of histamine produced and some vets have wondered if those higher than normal histamine levels might increase the risk of allergic reactions to other things.

Mast cell tumors are usually easily removed if a vet is ferret knowledgeable and be sure to have pathology done in case there is a different cause.

Sukie (not a vet)

Recommended ferret health links:

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ferre...

http://ferrethealth.org/archive/

http://www.afip.org/ferrets/index.html

http://www.miamiferret.org/fhc/

http://www.ferretcongress.org/

http://www.trifl.org/index.shtml

http://homepage.mac.com/sukie/sukiesferr...

Answer 2

Has your ferret been to the vet?  What did your vet prescribe?  Creams and ointments can be dangerous when used on large wounds.  Says so right on the package.  Keep in mind your ferret will likely l**k off the ointment as well...safe?...I wouldn't trust that.  A vet will likely prescribe a wash that is safe to use every day in order to prevent infection.  A vet will also help you get to the bottom of why your ferret has this 'sore' to begin with.

Answer 3

i wouldnt it could harm your feret in so many ways it is not ment for animals see your vet to find a animal safe cream for your ferret