Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most commonly reported heart disease in ferrets. It is characterized by the progressive loss of heart muscle contraction, resulting in a dilated or enlarged heart. With this type of disease, the walls of the heart become thin and weak and unable to efficiently pump blood out into the general circulation. Affected ferrets may show no symptoms at all or they may become weak and collapse. The cause of this condition in ferrets is unknown. This is a disease that usually occurs in older ferrets over 4 years of age. Both males and females are susceptible. The risk of developing heart disease increases with age.

For more information, please read Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Ferrets.