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Pet Health Library

Ferrets + Medications & Supplements

  • NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedron) insulin is an injectable medication used in cats, dogs, birds, ferrets, and horses with diabetes mellitus. It is used to lower blood sugar levels and for long-term maintenance therapy of diabetes mellitus. Monitor closely for signs of low blood sugar (weakness, lack of energy, lethargy, stumbling or difficulty walking, behavior changes, muscle twitching, seizures, and/or unresponsiveness).

  • Itraconazole is given by mouth in the form of a capsule, tablet, or liquid to treat fungal infections in cats and for off-label treatment in dogs and small mammals. The most common side effects are anorexia, vomiting, liver toxicity, skin lesions, or limb and vessel swelling. It should not be used in pets with liver disease or low stomach acid production, and used with caution in pregnant, lactating, or pets with heart disease.

  • Ketoprofen is given by mouth in the form of a capsule or tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs and horses. It’s use in animals is off label. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Lufenuron is a medication that controls flea infestations in dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid to dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. It may also be given by injection to cats. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, tiredness, reddening of the skin, or itchiness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Meloxicam (brand names Metacam, Meloxidyl, Loxicom, OroCAM) is given by mouth in the form of a liquid, capsule, or tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs, cats, and other small mammals. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.

  • Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for its sedative, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxant properties. It is primarily used as a sedative before surgery and to stop seizures. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in animals. This medication is a controlled substance primarily given via injection by your veterinary team, though it may be prescribed to your pet for intranasal or intrarectal administration at home.

  • Mupirocin otic, also known as pseudomonic acid A, is an antibiotic used in the treatment of ear infections. It is used “off label” or “extra label” to treat ear infections in animals. Mupirocin comes in ointment or liquid drop suspension forms that may be specially compounded.

  • Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial urinary bladder infections. It is typically used as a second-line antibiotic, when broad-spectrum antibiotics have not cleared the infection. It is used “off label” or “extra label” in veterinary medicine. Nitrofurantoin comes in capsule or liquid forms given orally. Never use in food-producing animals or animals intended for food.

  • Olopatadine ophthalmic is an antihistamine medication used to treat pruritus (itchiness) of the eyes caused by allergies in animals. Olopatadine ophthalmic comes in liquid drop suspension form.

  • Penicillin G (brand names VetriPen G, PenOne Pro, others), is an antibiotic used to treat susceptible infections in cats, dogs, chickens, horses, livestock, ferrets, hedgehogs, rabbits, and other animals. It is used off label (extra label) in cats, dogs, and other companion animals. Penicillin G comes in injectable suspension form. Caution when using in rabbits and other animals sensitive to penicillin-like drugs.