Why is my gerbil clicking, sleeping more, and breathing heavily?

Hello, and thank you for your question. It sounds like Bueller may have an upper respiratory tract infection, which is very common in rats. I would recommend taking him to the vet within the next 24 hours, especially since he is so lethargic. They can prescribe appropriate antibiotic medication, and offer other supportive medications if necessary. In the meantime, you can try using a humidifier to help ease his congestion. I would also ensure you are not using pine or cedar based bedding as the fumes from this type of bedding can worsen respiratory issues. Carefresh is a reliable alternative. I hope this helps, and that Bueller is feeling better soon.

Hello, Many animals can be seen visibly "dreaming", or moving in their sleep. If the episodes are associated with uncontrolled urination or defecation, confusion or change in behavior, then I would be concerned about possible seizure activity and recommend a vet check. If you don't notice any of those things paired with the episodes, and Urie is otherwise bright, playful, eating well, and not showing any changes in respiration, I would be more inclined to call it normal sleep activity. Upper respiratory disease is very common in mice, so you are not wrong to be concerned. If Urie begins to sneeze, wheeze, experience nasal discharge, lethargy, or unwillingness to eat, then I would recommend a vet check for him. Many mice carry the bacteria for upper respiratory infections naturally and it can flare up when the immune system is compromised by other disease or stress. These secondary bacterial infection "flare ups" require a course of antibiotics for treatment. I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thanks for reaching out about Gerat. The most likely cause is mycoplasma, which is a bacteria problem. Antibiotics can often improve clinical signs, but often is not curable, so this could be an on-again/off-again problem. A veterinary visit is required to prescribe to appropriate antibiotics. The website for the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV.org) might help you find a vet. Stress is often associated so review diet and husbandry and correct problems. Good luck.

Hi, sorry to hear about your mouse. It is possible he has a respiratory illness that is common in rats. This needs to be treated with an antibiotic. i recommend taking him to an exotic vet or a vet than can provide such a small dose of antibiotics. You can make sure he is warm because something they get cold and try o keep his nasal passages open. Good luck, I hope this helps!

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or eventually to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Thanks for reaching out about Rita. A common respiratory disease in rats is mycoplasmosis, a bacteria-like organism that causes chronic upper and lower respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, sneezing and congestion. Antibiotics can improve condition but might not cure. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Hello. Poor Oreo sounds as if she has a pretty severe respiratory infection, very common in young rats. I would suggest having your veterinarian examine her & start an appropriate antibiotic. Waiting could result in permanent lung damage. I hope she is feeling better soon. Take care.