Practical venipuncture techniques for the ferret

Abstract

As the number of ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) used in research and kept as pets continues to rise, so does the need for simple, humane research and diagnostic techniques. We have developed venipuncture methods for the ferret utilizing the jugular and cephalic veins. Using these methods it is possible to repeatedly sample moderate volumes of blood and to perform intravenous injections in both conscious and sedated ferrets.