URGENT HELP PLEASE

Question
Hello, I am really worried about my 2 year old gerbil. This morning, I
found him this morning rolling around on his back and since then he has
just been laying down, unable to move. We thought he was about to die
but 9 hours later, he is still alive but still not moving. A few
minutes ago, he tried to walk but fell. I have searched the Internet and it
looks like he has had a stroke. I am worried about him also because he
will not open his mouth so he cannot eat. What do you think is wrong and
what do you recommend I do? (PS, We are unable to go to any vets).
Please could you e-mail the answer to me on swapitshopryan@yahoo.co.uk.
Please reply urgently because I need help. Thanks, Ryan.


Answer
Hi Ryan

Sorry, I'm not going to be able to answer this as I don't know what's happening.  He sounds very ill, and really needs veterinary attention.  Why can't you get him to a vet?

My main expertise is with hamsters, not gerbils, therefore I am not sure what is wrong.  If this were a hamster, it could be a number of things - the fact that he can't walk properly would make me think he had a tumor pressing on his spine/legs.  It could be a stroke, or a number of conditions.

I don't know if there is a gerbil expert available for you to ask this question - good luck with this.  Sorry I can't be more help.

Regards