Disorders and Diseases of Gerbils

Gerbils have few spontaneous illnesses. A proper and consistent diet, clean cage and bedding, and appropriate housing all contribute to maintaining good health.   Digestive Disorders Most digestive disorders in gerbils are caused by infectious agents such as bacteria or internal parasites. Diarrhea is a common sign of many gastrointestinal diseases. Malnutrition may also occur if gerbil

Identifying the sex of gerbils older than 7 weeks is relatively simple. Adult male gerbils have prominent testicles that can be seen under their tails. It is more difficult to determine the sex of gerbils that are less than 7 weeks old. Lifting the tail of a young gerbil reveals a small patch with no fur; this patch is farther away from the tail on males than on females. The easiest way to sex a gerbil under 7 weeks old is to compare it with another young gerbil whos

Early Warning Signs of Illness in Your Gerbil Inactivity Hunched posture Loss of appetite or weight Dehydration Changes in color, consistency, odor, or amount of urine and feces

Gerbils are active and enjoy climbing and burrowing. Appropriate housing for these animals provides opportunities for both. Maintaining a clean environment and providing a high-quality commercial diet formulated for gerbils help ensure that your pet remains healthy.   Housing Gerbils must be kept in a cage with a solid (non-mesh) bottom because they often stand up on their hind legs. An ordinar

Gerbils are available at many pet stores, or they can often be obtained from a local breeder. When selecting a pet gerbil, you should look for one that has smooth glossy fur, clear eyes, and no obvious signs of trauma such as limping or hair loss on the body or tail. There should be no discharge from the eyes or nose and no signs of diarrhea in the gerbil’s environment. Healthy gerbils are usually lively and curious. If any of the gerbils show signs of illness such as matte

Never lift a gerbil up by its tail. Gerbils’ tails are delicate and can be easily injured. The best way to remove a gerbil from its cage is to use both hands and scoop it up under its belly. Do not squeeze the gerbil. Until the gerbil is accustomed to being handled, hold it close to the ground so that if it falls, it will not fall far and hurt itself. It is recommended that you hold the gerbil over its cage or over your lap, so if it wriggles out of your hands, it ca

Ventral marking gland, gerbil

Gerbils Domesticated gerbils,