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My ferret has hyperammonemia. Should I give antibiotics?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi. Have you seen ferrets with hyperammonemia and if so, can or have they been treated with antibiotics?

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2017

No. Unfortunately, hyperammonemia in ferrets is often due to a dietary issue or some other underlying problem with the liver. Antibiotics are used only to treat or prevent a bacterial infection, which in this case is not the issue at hand. I would look carefully at your ferret's diet and make sure he is receiving all of his appropriate amino acids, as Arginine deficiency can be the cause of this kind of process. If there is a primary liver condition, further diagnostic work up by a veterinarian will be required. Hope this helps!

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