How can I tell if my gerbil is feeling sad, upset, or stressed?

Thanks for reaching out about Snickers. It sounds as if she is painful. A veterinary visit is recommended. Check for appetite, water consumption, urination and defecation. Offer water via a syringe of no urine or drinking detected. Good luck.

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.

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.

This could just be Biscit's personality or he could be not feeling well. If he is eating good and willing to play or move around some, then you may not be that concerned. If not or you aren't sure, I would have a vet take a look at him to see if there is anything else going on. Your vet should be able to get him started on the proper treatment plan to help him feel better if needed. I hope this helps!

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.

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.