DISEASES OF FERRETS. 205 



other stock. The disease is really one of the 

 worst ferret maladies, for even when cured, after 

 effects or marks are left. The most prolific cause 

 is putting ferrets away with dirty feet after 

 being worked on rabbits, rats, other pests or 

 game. Wet weather or working where ground is 

 wet or damp are especially hard on ferrets. Just 

 as soon as through using they should receive at- 

 tention. Pens, boxes, hutches, or whatever fer- 

 rets are in, must be kept dry and clean, as damp- 

 ness and filth will bring on this disease. Some 

 claim that putting wire netting or perforated 

 zinc in bottom of hutches is another cause. 



Toes and claws of ferrets may become clogged 

 with fine grass and dirt, which if not removed, 

 will cause the feet to become sore, scabs form, 

 the claws, or toe nails become dry and long, feet 

 may swell to more than double the natural size. 

 In time the tails become afflicted in much the 

 same manner as the feet. 



Symptoms of foot rot are easily discovered. 

 The toes around the claws are sore and soon be- 

 come feverish. The divisions, or joints, above 

 the toes also become afflicted and proud flesh 

 forms, feet swelling. The tail also becomes af- 

 fected showing much the same symptoms as the 

 feet. 



