Rabies

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Ferrets are assumed to be highly susceptible to rabies and

capable of transmitting the virus.  Vaccination trials using

standard rabies vaccines have never been carried out to determine

the protective value of such vaccines.  Consequently, it is not

known if the vaccines currently being given are protective, and

if so, for how long.  In spite of these facts, a killed rabies

vaccine should be given annually, starting at 3 months of age.

Of course, there is a danger that such a vaccine may produce a

false sense of security.  Nevertheless, it is unlikely that an

average domestic ferret, living in an urban household, will

come into contact with rabies virus by way of a bite or contact

with the saliva of a rabid animal.