Disseminated cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in a ferret

A 3-year-old male ferret was admitted with ulcerated nodules and fistulous draining tracts on the pads and digits of the right front and left hind feet. Proteus sp and Escherichia coli were isolated from the exudate. Histologic examinations revealed that all skin lesions were associated with an underlying squamous cell carcinoma. Surgical removal was attempted, followed by chemotherapy. Regression of remaining lesions was noted before discharge; however, the ferret died 5 days later and was not available for necropsy.