Surgery for Cracker Jack

Cracker Jack had his surgery this morning.  I dropped him off at the vets at 7 am.   Dr. Garman called me at around 10:30 to say that he was resting post surgery.  It was then that I found out there was bi-lateral involvement, both of his adrenal glands were enlarged.  Sigh....

The left gland was removed completely and part of the right was removed as well.  We plan on putting him on lupron to help with the situation.

I brought him home this evening.  He has a recovery pen set up in our living room so he can rest peacefully away from the others.  This also limits his mobility, while he heals.

I offered him food, and he willingly ate his soupie!  We continue to offer supportive care and making sure he has soupie and water every two hours.

Tonight I will be sleeping in the living room on the couch next to Cracker Jack.   At first my Husband didn't like this idea, until I asked him if he really wanted to hear an alarm go off every two hours.   I will need an alarm to make sure I wake up and check on Cracker Jack regularly.

Cracker Jack - My Buddy

Cracker Jack has long been called my Buddy Boo, he is such a happy little ferret and joy to have in the family.   Cracker Jack joined the family in 2006, and he is just about 3.5 years old.  He loves to dance and cuddle in his Mom's arms.

For a few months now I have suspected Cracker Jack of being adrenal.  For those who may not have a lot of ferret knowledge this means I suspect he has  Adrenal Gland Disease.    He has started to show a few of the clinical signs, the most obvious being some patterned hairloss, inlcuding his tail, tummy, chest and shoulder blades.

We have consulted our vet, and even waited awhile just to make sure we weren't dealing with a seasonal shed.  My buddy's hair just isn't growing back.   His tail is practically bald these days.

March 2009

May 2009

Additionally he is showing some uncharacteristic agressive behavior with the others.   After additional discussion with his veterinarian we have decided to move forward with an adrenalectomy (surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland).  

Cracker Jack is scheduled for his surgery May 22, 2009.  We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and wish for an uneventful surgery along with a speedy recovery.  

Photo's from the ferret room!

A few recent photos of the family for your enjoyment...

Ozzy celebrating his 3rd birthday playing in the tubes!

Mojo, checking out the world upside down..thinkin' he's pretty darn cute!

Cracker Jack posing handsome for the camera!

Moki demonstrating how to REALLY relax!

Ben Ben "Tastes Like Chicken Poofer" sneaking up on someone....

Bobo, playing with her new favorite toy she got for Easter.

Luna says "This is the face you get when you take pictures of my while I'm sleeping"

No wonder they never have any toys to play with...who put them all under the cage?

Happy First Birthday Cracker Jack

Our loveable Cracker Jack has turned one! We celebrated with Duck Soup, lots of hugs and playtime in the ferret room tonight.

Without further ado, lets introduce the birthday boy, guest of honor!

Is this toy for me?

Yeah, Mom I'll come out for a new toy!


Cracker Jack and Ozzy taking advantage of the fact the other party guests hadn't found the soup tray yet. DIG IN BROTHER!!


Clean up crew, after most of the party guests have moved on the play games.
Featuring Bobo, notice the feet on the plate and Moki.




Of course what is a ferret birthday party without a game of steal the toy and hide it?

Ozzy stealing Cracker Jacks new toy. They toy was then carefully tucked under the cage for safe keeping.

Cracker Jack

Meet Cracker Jack, another lovey dovey boy. He celebrates his birthday on January 15th and is currently 11 months old.

Sometimes called Cracker for short, one of the rowdies in the house. He loves to bounce around and leap at Mommy's legs to get her to play. Even with all of his energy he does occasionally slow down for some lovin'. He likes to be "baby dolled" or craddled in his Mommy's arms after a good exhausting round of play.