A Nemec1, M Zadravec2, J Račnik2. 1. Dentistry and Oral Surgery Department, Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. ana.nemec@vf.uni-lj.si. 2. Department for Birds, Small Mammals and Reptiles, Institute for Poultry Health, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Domestic ferrets have been used for many purposes, but recently their popularity as companion animals has increased greatly. However, data on their oral and dental diseases are rare. The objective of this study was therefore to describe oral and dental diseases in a population of client-owned domestic ferrets. METHODS: In this cross-sectional clinical study, detailed oral and dental examination and full-mouth dental radiographs were performed in 57 client-owned ferrets. RESULTS: Variations in occlusion and number of roots per tooth were noted in comparison with previously published literature on ferrets. Periodontal disease, attrition/abrasion and dental fractures, especially of the canine teeth, were commonly observed. Periapical disease associated with dental fractures, malocclusion, tooth resorption and neoplasia was uncommon. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study indicates that thorough oral and dental examination supported by dental radiography under general anaesthesia should be performed in domestic ferrets as a part of regular veterinary care.
OBJECTIVE:Domestic ferrets have been used for many purposes, but recently their popularity as companion animals has increased greatly. However, data on their oral and dental diseases are rare. The objective of this study was therefore to describe oral and dental diseases in a population of client-owned domestic ferrets. METHODS: In this cross-sectional clinical study, detailed oral and dental examination and full-mouth dental radiographs were performed in 57 client-owned ferrets. RESULTS: Variations in occlusion and number of roots per tooth were noted in comparison with previously published literature on ferrets. Periodontal disease, attrition/abrasion and dental fractures, especially of the canine teeth, were commonly observed. Periapical disease associated with dental fractures, malocclusion, tooth resorption and neoplasia was uncommon. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study indicates that thorough oral and dental examination supported by dental radiography under general anaesthesia should be performed in domestic ferrets as a part of regular veterinary care.