Ferret with sudden head tilt and circling from inner ear infection

Abstract

Abstract Vestibular signs are rarely reported in ferrets. This report documents the successful diagnosis and management of an otitis interna without otitis media in a ferret. A 4-year-old deslorelin-implanted female ferret presented with an acute-onset, 2-day history of circling and falling to the right, and a diminished appetite. Neurologic examination revealed a right-sided head tilt associated with bilateral horizontal nystagmus, which had a fast phase to the left. These findings strongly suggested a right-sided vestibular syndrome. A complete blood cell count, serum biochemistry panel, and CT scan were unremarkable. A 1.5T contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scan of the brain showed a hypointense T2 signal abnormality of the right inner ear, without the involvement of the middle ear. The lesion showed contrast enhancement after contrast media administration in T1 sequence. The final diagnosis was otitis interna. The ferret was hospitalized and received intravenous fluids, oral enrofloxacin, and prednisolone. Clinical signs rapidly improved with treatment and the ferret was discharged after 5 days in the hospital. Treatment was continued for a further 15 days. Six months later, the ferret was healthy and not displaying any neurologic signs. Otitis interna should be included in the differential diagnosis for peripheral vestibular syndrome in ferrets. This case report highlights the importance of advanced imaging techniques to reach a definitive diagnosis.