Most people are familiar with the threat of heartworm in domestic dogs. In fact, most veterinarians begin canine companions on heartworm preventative medication as young puppies. However what many people do not realize is that ferrets are also at risk for contracting and developing heartworms. Because of the ferret’s size, heartworms are more difficult to remove from a ferret’s body so it is essential that ferret owners understand their pet’s potential for getting this detrimental parasite.

The heartworm is a parasite that is typically transferred by mosquitoes. Even though many domestic ferrets spend their time indoors, they should still be protected against heartworms. After all, doors and windows open within a home, and bugs like mosquitoes have a knack for finding their way indoors. If a mosquito is carrying the heartworm larvae, he will leave it in the ferret’s blood with a single bite. Additionally, if a ferret, dog, or other animal is carrying the heartworm parasite, the mosquito will pick up some of the larvae from the animal and transport it to another creature.

Once in the ferret’s blood, the parasite travels through the blood to the ferret’s heart. The heartworm matures into a spaghetti-like worm. The worm grows in length, and also begins to reproduce, leaving more larvae in the ferret. As the worm grows, it begins to wrap around the heart and circulatory system like a piece of string. As it becomes entwined in the heartworm, the heart begins to work harder. This extra work puts excessive pressure on the lungs, and bodily tissues become seriously damaged. Additionally, your ferret is at severe risk for heart failure.

It is important to have your veterinarian check for heartworm at exams. Symptoms are often subtle until the parasite becomes very serious. Signs include general unease or distress, weakness, lethargy, and respiratory complications. Call your veterinarian at the first sign of any of these symptoms for an examination.