Hi there. I have a gerbil that seems sick. She is almost three years old but she isn't moving much. When she does move, she scoots instead of walking. Her eyes are closed and she is breathing rapidly. Any ideas what is going on?

d.j.

It is very difficult to diagnose medical problems over the net because your pet must have a hands on examination to give an accurate diagnosis. This is best done by a veterinarian. Rodents need immediate medical care, so it is important that you seek veterinary advice in the morning ASAP

If you recently started using cedar or pine for bedding, it is imperative that you remove the bedding because both of these woods contain natural oils that are toxic to small pets. Both of these are known to cause respiratory problems in rodents. Avoid using corn cob as well as it has the potential to produce mold when wet for long periods of time also causing respiratory problems. Many small pet web sites advise that you should use only aspen or carefresh for bedding and keep the bedding clean and dry.


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Thank you for your advice. I have been using the same brand of bedding since I've had my Gerbil. I have had her for close to three years now. She was fine last week, but not now. I figure it is probably ole age but thought I should ask someone who would know. Have you ever heard of someone taking a gerbil to vet and vet putting it to sleep if there is no hope for the pet? I know for cats and dogs this is done but have never heard it for a rodent. Thanks again.....d.j.

hamster and gerbil life spans are around 3 years, so it probably is old age and yes, the vet can put her to sleep for you, at least my vet would. i really hope she gets better, because i know it's hard to lose any pet.

Taking your gerbil to the vet would enable him/her to confirm whether the problem is old age - which, unfortunately, does sound likely - or a treatable illness. If the diagnosis is old age, putting your gerbil to sleep would be the kindest thing you could do for her. My vet would certainly do this. (I wouldn't be a customer of any vet who refused to end an animal's suffering.)

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I know for cats and dogs this is done but have never heard it for a rodent. Thanks again.....d.j.

In terms of this question, I, myself, have taken a pet rat (yes, a pet) to be euthanized at the vet. There was no problem in me having this done.