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My 3-year-old ferret is losing weight and fur. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Ferret | Female | 3 years old | 2 lbs

Why is my ferret loosing so much weight? She is 3 years old and noticed her gradual weight and very significant fur loss about a month ago. She still eats and drinks normally as far as I’m aware and is still her energetic self. I have not noticed any change in behavior.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on January 21st, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Pepper and including photos. With the hair loss on the tail "rat tail", this is highly suspicious of an adrenal disease. A veterinary visit is recommended as soon as possible to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. These endocrine problems are very common in ferrets and only start as hair loss, but other internal changes are likely occurring. Treatments are possible. Good luck.

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