However, gerbils only have a lifespan of approximately 3-5 years, depending on the species. . Strokes affect other animals in the same way that they affect us. Be sure to observe your gerbil each day and note the progression of any growth day-to-day. If your gerbil has stopped moving, and feels cold to the touch, youre understandably concerned about your pet's welfare. It can be stressful to think that your gerbil might be sick, but there are signs you can look for that will tell you whether its time to visit the vet. Other signs that something may be wrong include lethargy, weight loss, and changes in bathroom habits. Place the rejected gerbil in a separate enclosure. One of the most common causes of death in gerbils is pneumonia. gerbil definition: 1. a small animal, similar to a mouse with long back legs, that is often kept as a pet 2. a small. [Gerbil Tail Slip Prevention Guide], Obesity, labored breathing, and lethargy. All gerbils have long hind feet and fairly large ears and eyes, but there is variation among other characteristics. However, if their condition is too far gone, the vet will be able to help them cross over peacefully. It will also start to smell, drawing the attention of pests and tainting your home. They are visible to the naked eye, and can also be identified by their dark droppings. And depending on the conditions your gerbil lives in, RIs can appear suddenly. However, its not uncommon for one gerbil to grow bigger than the other. However, like other animals, they are vulnerable to sickness and mortality. According to Vet Record, the only way to resolve the issue is surgery. Begin by buying a new gerbilarium for your pets to live in. Drinking less frequently. Stress is commoner in younger gerbils. Others can only be fixed by a vet, like a tumor on your pets scent gland. Of the 21 moribund gerbils, 17 were females while the majority of the surviving individuals were male (14 out of 19), yet all the surviving gerbils with no symptoms, were female. Gerbils are especially susceptible because of the structure of their brains. Burying your gerbil in the backyard is the best way to show it respect and say your goodbyes. When a much-loved pet dies, its the worst feeling. If your gerbil has any of these symptoms, take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible. There are 14 species in the genus Meriones. Gerbils can be infected with several strains of Salmonella bacteria. The heart can be under strain long before this, though, which has slightly different symptoms to what we understand as a heart attack.. The only thing that can be done is treat the symptoms while you wait for them to go away on their own. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. This doesnt threaten your pets health. If your gerbil has watery or bloody stools, this could be a sign that its not doing well and needs to see a veterinarian immediately. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Know-if-a-Gerbil-Is-Ill-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Know-if-a-Gerbil-Is-Ill-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Know-if-a-Gerbil-Is-Ill-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid1247658-v4-728px-Know-if-a-Gerbil-Is-Ill-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
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