gerbil illness

Question
Hi my Gerbil is getting really swollen all over his body and he won't move from out of his corner. He's also losing some hair and I don't know what to do this is my first Gerbil. Also he won't eat much and he just sits there and stares off at the end of his cage. Help somebody what do I do?

Answer
Hi Leslie

I'm sorry to hear about your gerbil.  You haven't said how old he is. I'm assuming he is elderly???  If so, then this could just be a sign of old age, the swelling could indicate that his heart isn't functioning properly and he is accumulating fluids.  I would strongly advise that you get him seen by a vet if you can.  Do you have a local vet that you know?  If not, then it is worth phoning a few and finding out firstly if they have anyone there who specialises in small animals, and secondly their fees.  Usually when they have a small animal vet they charge a greatly reduced fee for hamsters/gerbils, but it is worth establishing this before you go so that you don't get a nasty surprise with the bill.

A vet might be able to give him some medication that will sort this out, but if his condition is serious then they may advise euthanasia, but that is something they will discuss with you.  

I'm sorry I can't say for sure what is wrong as it is difficult to know without actually seeing him.  He certainly doesn't sound as though he is very well, and therefore having him examined by someone who is qualified is good idea.

I hope you get on OK.

Regards
Sheila