Why did my gerbil die suddenly?
Strokes and heart disease cause sudden death in gerbils. Shock or fright can also cause death through seizures. Death by old age can be sudden too, as gerbils only live for about 2-3 years. If your gerbil dies suddenly, remove it from its cage, get rid of any bedding, and clean the enclosure with antibacterial spray.
What happens when your gerbil dies?
Gerbils grieve when a bonded partner dies. This bonded partner could be a breeding partner or a same-sex sibling. A grieving gerbil will be lethargic, i.e. not move much, and will eat and drink less. This can last for months.
What are signs of gerbils dying?
A dying gerbil displays the following signs:
- Loss of appetite.
- Drinking less frequently.
- Staying in one spot more often.
- Labored breathing.
- Dull fur.
- Weight loss.
- Urinating or pooping on itself.
Is 2 old for a gerbil?
The signs of old age in gerbils are variable in the point at which they appear. So, your gerbil may reach two years old and suddenly decline. But another gerbil may reach three and only then show significant signs of aging. That being said, the signs of old age are often the same.
Do gerbils explode?
Gerbil’s head exploded. Gerbils often don’t get along well. There is a condition called nasal dermatitis that can cause some quite severe deformations on the face of a gerbil. But there is no condition that I am aware of that can cause a gerbil’s head to explode.
Why is my gerbil walking weird?
Gerbils with head tilt will often walk or run in a continuous circle. With the imbalance that causes a head tilt, your gerbil won’t be able to walk or run in a straight line. If you notice your gerbil moving this way, keep an eye on it until you can get it to the vet.
Why does my gerbil have one eye closed?
If your gerbil has one eye closed, then an eye infection is the most likely cause. That’s because infections only affect one eye, unless your gerbil is unlucky. Infections are caused by bacteria getting into an open wound. People can get infections, and in people, an eye infection is also known as conjunctivitis.