Ferrets remain popular pets in the United States. Although much of the historical literature suggests that these animals are long-lived (10-15 years), the average lifespan appears to be much shorter (5-9 years). One of the reasons for the shorter longevity of captive U.S. ferrets appears to be associated with the high incidence of endocrine diseases reported in these animals. Endocrine diseases in ferrets have been attributed to genetics, early-age neutering, diet, and photoperiod. The majority of the ferrets entering the U.S. pet trade are supplied by large breeding facilities. The fact that many of these animals share a common lineage, and that many of the endocrine diseases reported in captive ferrets are reported in these "farmed" ferrets, suggests that genetics may play a role in the epidemiology of endocrine disease. Ferrets produced in commercial breeding operations are neutered at an early age (<6 weeks) to reduce unwanted musk odors and concerns about estrogen induced anemia in jills. Early age neutering has been associated with the development of adrenal gland disease in other species, and may also be responsible for the disease in ferrets. The normal photoperiod for ferrets should follow a standard 12 hour cycle. Unfortunately, many captive ferrets are exposed to extended periods (>12-14 hours) of light. Extended light can lead to alterations in baseline hormone levels, resulting in endocrine disturbances. Ferrets are carnivores. Unfortunately, the diets offered to captive ferrets are comprised of a large proportion of plant materials (e.g., corn). Providing a less than optimal diet may contribute to the development of certain endocrine disease in ferrets. From these comments it is possible that there may be a number of factors that contribute to the epidemiology of endocrine diseases in ferret, and further work is required to characterize these risk factors.

Adrenal gland disease is a common presentation in geriatric (> 4 years of age) ferrets. Ferrets presenting with adrenal gland disease frequently have alopecia. The alopecia may be focal or generalized. Where there is hair loss, the skin may appear thin and smooth. Pruritis is reported in approximately 50% of cases. Muscle atrophy is frequently reported in ferrets and is generally observed over the spine and pelvis. Female ferrets presented with adrenal gland disease commonly have an enlarged vulva. In some of these cases, there may be a thick purulent vaginal discharge (vaginitis). Male ferrets with adrenal gland disease frequently have a return to aggressive behavior. Stranguria may also occur in male ferrets as a result of secondary prostatomegaly. Some of the ferrets presenting with adrenal gland disease are depressed or lethargic; however, the majority of the ferrets presented are bright, alert and responsive.

To confirm the presence of adrenal gland disease, a thorough diagnostic work-up should be performed, including a complete blood count, plasma chemistry analysis, hormone panel, urinalysis, radiographs, and ultrasound. Anemia or leukopenia may occur in cases with elevated circulating levels of estrogen. In general, the leukocyte count is within normal limits. Ferrets with concurrent insulinoma may be hypoglycemic (<80 mg/dl). The AST and CK may be elevated as a sequella to muscle necrosis. The ALT may be elevated in cases that involve the liver (e.g., metastasis). An androgen blood panel can be performed to evaluate different hormone levels. The androgens are generally elevated in ferrets with adrenal hyperplasia or neoplasia. Radiographs are often unremarkable, although it is important to perform them to rule-out other disease processes. Ultrasound is an important diagnostic that can be used to characterize the size of the adrenal glands, confirming an adrenomegaly, and assess their general location in association with the vena cavae.