Is my gerbil in pain? She squeaks when touched and won't hide.

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Peanut Butter. Sometimes vocalizing while handled is a sign of discomfort. So is being secretive. A veterinary visit is recommended as soon as possible. Try to offer water and food via syringe until the visit. An emergency visit over the weekend might be a good idea. Good luck.

I would be concerned about then possibility of an abdominal tumor or fluid accumulation in the abdomen. However, fluid accumulation does not have a good prognosis either. I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. If there is a large tumor they may be able to feel it and help guide you with quality of life decisions. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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 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.

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.

Ideally, you should have her physically examined by your veterinarian. An exam and may diagnostics, such as a fine needle aspirate, may determine what the mass is and if it is dangerous. For now, keep the cage clean, dry and warm and keep Mitzi as stress free as possible.