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  • Flea infestation is a common problem in pet ferrets, especially in ferrets that go outdoors or live in a house with dogs, cats, or other animals who have fleas. Affected ferrets may or may not be itchy, depending on their sensitivity to flea bites. Signs and treatment of fleas are discussed.

  • Fleas are less common in hedgehogs than in cats or dogs, but a similar treatment protocol is required to control an infestation. This handout describes the clinical signs of fleas in hedgehogs and what to do if your hedgehog is affected.

  • Rabbits can become infested with fleas, especially if they go outside or live in a house with other pets that have fleas. Rabbits with fleas may show no signs or may bite, lick, or scratch themselves. Young rabbits with heavy infestations may become anemic. There are no rabbit-specific drugs for managing fleas. Certain topical anti-parasite medications appear to be safe but should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian familiar with rabbits.

  • Florfenicol + terbinafine + betamethasone otic (brand name Osurnia) is a long-acting, topical ear medication used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with certain bacterial and yeast ear infections in dogs. It should only be administered by a veterinary professional.

  • Florfenicol + terbinafine + mometasone otic (brand names: Claro, Simplera) is a topical ear medication used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with certain bacterial and yeast ear infections in dogs. This medication is usually given by veterinary personnel as a single dose.

  • Flow cytometry is a laboratory technique that can be used for counting, examining, and sorting cells. A sample is passed through a light source and as the cells move through the path of the light source, they scatter the light in different ways.

  • Flower essences are extracts from various types of flowers that are used to balance emotions. In animals, they are used to relieve emotional stress and anxiety. Flower essences are used in many different animals, including cats, dogs, horses, fish, birds, and other animals.

  • Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used off label in cats, dogs, and small mammals to treat fungal infections, especially those in the brain and spinal cord. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid suspension and is also available as an injection for hospital use. It should be used with caution in pets with liver or kidney disease, or pregnant or lactating pets.

  • Flucytosine is an antifungal drug used in combination with other drugs to treat serious fungal infections in pets. No veterinary products are available. Human products (Ancobon®) are used off label in dogs, cats and birds; caution is advised for use in dogs, as they may develop severe skin reactions.

  • Fludrocortisone acetate (brand names: Florinef®, Astonin®, Astonin H®, Florinefe®, Lonikan®) is used off-label to treat adrenal gland insufficiency or hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) in cats, dogs, and ferrets. It may also be used with other medications to treat hyperkalemia. Fludrocortisone acetate is given by mouth.