Anatomy and Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System of the Ferret and Selected Exotic Carnivores

The anatomy and physiology of the ferret is different than cats or dogs. Gastrointestinal disease has is usually manifested by diarrhea, weight loss, and anorexia. The role of Helicobacter mustelae has been studied as a model for gastrointestinal disease in other species. The hedgehog and sugar glider are essentially insectivore/omnivores but have the simple stomach and intestinal tract more similar to those of carnivores. The Virginia opossum’s gastrointestinal tract has served as a model for omnivorous marsupials. Gastrointestinal disease in the insectivore/omnivores is one of the most common reasons for presentation in the exotic pet practice of these species.