Why is my gerbil lazy, not moving, and sits still when I hold him?

If he will allow, check his teeth for overgrowth or misalignment. Also, look for obvious signs of infection or injury. This may include redness, swelling, bleeding, bruising or discharge. If you see anything suspicious, he will need to be seen by your veterinarian for confirmation and treatment. If his teeth are fine, clean his cage and sanitize bowls, water bottle, toys and hides. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. Maintain a stable temperature and keep him as stress free as possible. If his symptoms persist, a veterinary exam will be needed.

Thanks for reaching out. In general, if a gerbil is sick or upset, a behavioral changes is likely noted, such as decreased activity or appetite. If you observe some of these signs, it could mean she is ill. If you are concerned, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

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.

Poor Mekah! I am worried that she may have something neurological going on. Since it has been going on for 2 hours, I strongly recommend contacting your veterinarian for an exam, possible diagnostics (for example blood work and/or x-rays), and medication.

Thank you for your question, and I am sorry to hear about Gus Gus. I would ensure that the bedding is clean and dry, and that the temperatures in your house are not too cold. A general rule of thumb that I use is around 70-75F for mice. Please ensure there are no drafts as well. I would also recommend checking to make sure he is eating normally (this can be hard in mice as sometimes they will cache food in different areas) and producing urine and feces. If you have done all of these things and Gus Gus still isn't behaving normally, I would recommend that you have him evaluated by a veterinarian. There are a number of clinics in your area that have clinicians who are comfortable in seeing exotic companion animals, such as mice like Gus Gus. They will perform a thorough physical exam and will make recommendations based on their findings. I hope that gives you a place to start, and I hope Gus Gus feels better soon!

Thanks for reaching out about Nibbles. It would be a concern that the sugar in the grapes could cause an intestinal problem. If Nibbles is acting lethargic or painful, decreased appetite or sick in any other manner, he should be seem by a veterinarian. Antibiotics or other medications might be in order. Good luck.

Nightingale sounds very sick. My best advice is for you to get him to a vet for an exam as soon as possible. His symptoms are not specific for any one illness or disease process so there is not much I can tell you without examining him myself. Your vet will need to see him to get this figured out and to get him the proper treatment. Best wishes.