Vaccination of Ferrets for Rabies and Distemper

Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2018 Jan;21(1):105-114. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2017.08.004.

Abstract

Companion ferrets need to be vaccinated against 2 viral diseases that cause neurologic illness: canine distemper and rabies. Although not common in ferrets, both viruses are fatal in ferrets and rabies virus is also fatal in humans. In this article, we provide a basic review of the 2 diseases, highlighting key neurologic concerns. We also review and update current vaccine concerns from a practitioner's perspective, including available vaccines, vaccine schedule recommendations, vaccine reactions, and risk assessment. Last, we mention the ferret and its use in cutting-edge vaccine development.

Keywords: Distemper; Ferret; Rabies; Vaccine; Virus.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Distemper / prevention & control*
  • Ferrets*
  • Rabies / prevention & control
  • Rabies / veterinary*
  • Rabies Vaccines / therapeutic use*
  • Vaccination / veterinary
  • Viral Vaccines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Rabies Vaccines
  • Viral Vaccines