gerbil, ear infection??

Question
 Hi Charlotte!  I was doing research on gerbils and another expert i saw answered a question to some1 that when ur gerbil sways when he/she stands still, they might have an ear infection? anyway one of my gerbils sways to her left a little bit when she stands up, but she does not lose balance and does not have to put her front paws down. Do u think she has an ear infection? also are the ear infection contagious? because i have another gerbil too in the same cage. i have noticed the swaying since i bought her but i thought it was nothing and never thought much of it. my other gerbil does not sway at all ever. thnx if u can help (Sorry if it is confusing) :)

Answer
Hi jenny,

It may well be a middle ear infection as this is the most common cause of unsteadiness in gerbils, especially younger ones. This is easily cleared up by some antibiotics from the vet!
There are a few other more serious problems which cause unsteadiness so the best thing to do would be to visit your vet as soon as you can!!

Hope this helps,
Charlie

p.s - An ear infection is not contagious!!

xx