My gerbil is hurt, not moving, and breathing fast. What should I do?

I'm sorry that this is happening. It is recommended that you take her to a vet. If they find that they cannot help her at least they can put her to sleep so she doesn't suffer. But if they can help her, then they can dispense some treatment.

It sounds like Kiwi is very sick, and I think she needs to see a vet now. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

Hello, Many small rodents already naturally carry the bacteria that causes upper respiratory infections, but the bacteria can overgrow when they have another illness that is suppressing their immune system, are under some stress (such as a move), or in unclean conditions with poor diet. It sounds like in your case, it's more likely to be one of the first two reasons. You can read a little more about it here: https://www.petcoach.co/article/mycoplasma-infections-in-mice-and-rats/ I would recommend having Ophelia seen by a vet to start some antibiotics. We generally use a combination of two antibiotics to tackle this difficult bug- most commonly, a combination of enrofloxacin and doxycycline. These can be compounded into a flavored liquid for easier medicating. I hope this helps! Thanks for using PetCoach!

Morty sounds really bad, and leaving him like this would be cruel. Dying is not a pain free process. He has to see a vet now, even if it's just to put him to sleep. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Your gerbil may be quite sick or possibly injured. Without an exam, it is difficult to determine what the underlying cause may be. If he will allow, gently open his mouth and check his teeth for overgrowth or misalignment. This could affect his appetite which, in turn, could lead to the other symptoms. If his teeth are too long, your veterinarian can trim them. If they appear normal, there may be something else causing his symptoms. Ideally, Zach should be physically examined by your veterinarian to diagnose and treat any infection or injury.

I am sorry to hear that. If you feel that your gerbil is extremely ill, you should seek veterinary attention, either to try and make it well again or to help end its suffering. I of course understand this is never an easy decision but sometimes it is the kindest thing we can offer. If you would like to post a more detailed question regarding your gerbil, myself or someone else would be happy to try and help. Hope this makes sense.

Hi there! The symptoms that Nova is exhibiting are very concerning, especially the hypothermia. Rodents are very susceptible to a decrease in body temperature, and this could be life-threatening for her. The circling could be caused by multiple issues, including an ear infection, vestibular disease (a condition that affects an animal's balance), or a brain tumor. It sounds like she needs to get to the vet as soon as possible to determine the cause of her symptoms, and if they are treatable. Depending on the cause, Nova could be in pain, so she should be seen ASAP. In the meantime, I suggest keeping Nova warm and separating her from any other gerbils you have to minimize stress. Good luck, and I hope Nova recovers!