Is Aleutian disease virus in ferrets contagious to others and will they eventually die?

Aleutian disease virus (ADV) is a contagious disease that affects ferrets. It is caused by a parvovirus that attacks the immune system. The virus is spread through contact with infected ferrets or their bodily fluids. Ferrets of all ages can be infected with ADV, but kits (young ferrets) are most susceptible.

Symptoms of ADV can include:

* Lethargy

* Weight loss

* Diarrhea

* Vomiting

* Skin lesions

* Anemia

* Immunodeficiency

ADV is often fatal in ferrets, and there is no specific treatment for the disease. Supportive care can help to improve the ferret's quality of life and survival time, but the prognosis is generally poor.

To prevent ADV, it is important to keep ferrets away from infected animals and to practice good hygiene when handling ferrets. Ferrets should be vaccinated against ADV, and any new ferrets should be quarantined for at least 30 days before being introduced to other ferrets.