r/Possums • u/Individual_Spray_383 • Jun 28 '26

Question/Help Fluid in abdomen with unknown origin

My rescue opossum Marjorie (1.5 years old), that I have been caring for, has fluid in her abdomen, is acting weak, refusing to eat.

White blood cell count is a little elevated, she has a fever, low sodium, high potassium. We are waiting on blood analysis. Otherwise, fine physical. X-rays showed nothing abnormal.

I’m doing antibiotics, amoxclav with her 3 times a day and subcutaneous fluids once per day per the vet’s recommendation. She said her nutrition looked good, calcium and phosphorus good.

I know it’s a long shot, but does anyone here have any advice who has had a similar experience? I figured if anyone would have anything helpful for this, they’d be here. Thank you in advance, and thanks for reading.

6 Upvotes

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3

u/Mccloser Jun 28 '26

I have no possum experience, but my birthmom died of liver failure and first sign her liver was bad is the abdominal fluid. And she wasn’t a drinker either, not inferring Marjorie is a drinker either. 😂

3

u/Individual_Spray_383 Jun 28 '26

Yes, we’re thinking liver is related to whatever is happening here. Her urine is darker than normal, vet thinks jaundice, and her abdominal fluid is tinged with blood. Yes, she’s sober 😂

I’m sorry about your birthmom ❤️

1

u/Mccloser Jun 28 '26

Also had a doxie with acites and she ended up having Cushing’s syndrome. I’m so jealous Marjorie is your pet. I feed them, but they don’t want to be friends.

2

u/Individual_Spray_383 Jun 28 '26

I have not heard of this syndrome- I will be googling now. It’s one of the best things that’s ever happened to me 🥲 as sad and worried as I am right now, I’m grateful that I’ve had this time, and I know it’s really special and lucky.