Why is my black ferret's head fur changing to metallic gray?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry that Levi is not feeling well! These symptoms are commonly caused by hormonal imbalances in ferrets, which can be caused by small tumors which are usually benign. I recommend having Levi seen by a vet who can perform bloodwork and x-rays to determine what the underlying cause is. I hope this helps!

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.

Hello, thank you for using PetCoach. I would be a bit worried about this. Hair loss in ferrets can be a sign of many different ailments but the most common is adrenal disease. The one with the rat tail may be seasonal hair loss but I cannot be 100% sure of that just by looking at a photo. In females, hair loss can be hormone related if not spayed. I suggest a vet visit so you can get some answers. If you don't already have a vet you use be sure to use one that is used to treating ferrets. I would suggest this one that I found in your area: ( http://www.islandexoticvet.com/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Gus sounds very handsome! I think this is probably normal. Coat changes happen frequently in many different types of animals. Sometimes it is seasonal, sometimes it is a normal from ageing. As long as the skin and hair looks healthy I would not be worried. Personally, I think it is likely age related. Hope this helps. Best wishes!

I am sorry Alice is not feeling well. With her being an older ferret I would recommend taking her to a vet for some basic blood work and an exam. Older ferrets can get adrenal disease which can cause hair loss but typically they gain weight. However, infection, virus, cancers, kidney disease and even gastric upset can cause weight loss and abnormal behavior. I really think she needs some testing and good exam to help point you in the right direction. I hope she feels better soon

Hi and thank you for your question! Sometimes dog hair can change in color and texture when they age just like human hair can. I wouldn't worry too much about the hair change unless it appears like he is loosing fur, the skin around the fur is red, inflamed, scabbing, or infected-you will want to see your veterinarian if that is the case.

Thanks for reaching out about Willy and including a photo. Age is middle age and not considered old. Just because he did not respond to Karo syrup does not mean he doesn't have an insulinoma. But other conditions possible. A veterinary visit is recommended, but probably sooner than late next week. Monitor appetite and body score if you can. Good luck.