Is my ferret hurt? It looks like he has a dent in his fur but not his back.?

Question

My stupid brother didnt secure the cage that was on top of my three droor dresser and i think he jumped out. It looks like he has a dent in his fur, almost on his shoulder. But it just looks like his fur is dented. Its almost on his shoulder. I havent even had him for a week and this happens. He's a 3 month old kit. Please help me. This is an emergency.

Answer 1

If Its Very Bad From You're Point Of View, Take It To The Vet.

Answer 2

check his body 4 lumps, if there are he has cancer.

Answer 3

All ferrets will take a fall at some point as they have really bad depth perception and kits don't look before they leap, even adult ferrets tend to leap first look later.

If a ferret takes a big fall first thing you want to do is assess whether or not the ferret is conscious moving them as little as possible to ensure that you do not cause any further injury. If they are awake and moving you can do a very gentle exam of them, use caution to avoid further injury or being bitten as the ferret may be scared and in shock. I usually offer the ferret a little bit of ferretone and allow them to stand on their own to l**k it up. If they can stand, are not limping and seem generally alert I will gently pick them up and very, very gently examine them. I look at each toe, have them press gently on my hand with their foot (if they wince or pull back I know there is an injury) and look over the head and body for bleeding, swelling or any other signs of trauma.

If I do not find any signs of trauma I will keep an eye on the ferret for a couple hours to see if there is any change in behaviour. If during my home examination of the ferret I see any sign of injury we are immediately off to the vet. If it is a severe injury I may have to bandage the ferret first or find a special carry box where they cannot move around much.

Of course if you see any sign of injury call the vet and see how soon you can bring your ferret in.

Since the ferret is only 3mos. old I'm going to assume that the ferret is due for it's 12 week distemper shot. If you don't see any sign of trauma it might be a good idea to call the vet and tell them you have a new ferret and would like an exam. Explain to them the ferret took a fall from a dresser and that you don't see any sign of injury but are still worried as he's just young and you are new to this. Most vet clinics will do their best to fit in appointments for concerned owners and if they cannot fit you in today or tomorrow then ask them if they have suggestions of symptoms you should watch for until the ferret can get an exam.

If all is okay you will have had a wellness check on your ferret and the vet will give your ferret his 12 week vaccine, if the ferret is injured then you can rest assured that you got them the help they needed.

Oh and when you see the vet ask them what they are doing while they examine your ferret, it's a great way to learn about ferret health and you will feel a little more comfortable examining your own ferret over the years if your vet teaches you as you go.

Good luck I hope he's okay!

Answer 4

Try lightly touching the dent.  If it hurts him like he makes a noise or flinches then take him to the vet.