DISEASES OF FERRETS. 201 



refuse its food; dullness comes over it and the 

 eyes may become swollen, lids stuck together 

 with a peculiar sort of matter ; nose swollen and 

 inflamed; it may sweat and shiver at the same 

 time. If removed from the nest it will probably 

 bow its back and stagger when it tries to walk, 

 often falling over in the; attempt. You will also 

 notice a heav}^ dullness of eyes, which become 

 swollen. As the disease advances, the head is 

 apt to swell and an offensive running discharge 

 issues from eyes and nostrils. This discharge is 

 sticky, closing the eyes. They must receive at- 

 tention or death is sure to follow and that soon. 

 In the earlier stages the treatment is first to 

 wash the animal in lukewarm water and soap. 

 Rub until thoroughly dry with a flannel cloth, 

 then place in a warm, dry nest with plenty of 

 bedding. Look at it occasionally or if it is cold 

 or chilling, cover or wrap in warm flannels. 

 After being washed give 10 or 12 drops of whis- 

 key in warm, sweet milk. Ferrets not severely 

 attacked will show improvement within twenty- 

 four hours. If no better at the end of that time, 

 repeat both the washing and dose of whiskey. 

 The eyes and nostrils should receive attention 

 first, by bathing in water slightly warm, until 

 cleaned of the sticky matter. After the animal 

 is thoroughly dry, apply vaseline to the nostrils 



