swollen gerbil

Question
hi, my female gerbils swollen all around her belly. she seems to be eating and moving around ok although she can;t jump up to where their waters kept. we are going to give her some strawberry in case its constipation because i read thats a good idea. i cant get her to a vet for a couple of days, have you got any idea what might be the matter or how we can help her before she goes to the vet? thank you!

Answer
Hi Charlotte,

Good thinking on the strawberry, if it is consitpation that will help her!

How old is she? Have you only just her? If so, are you sure she couldn't be pregnant? The only thing that changes during pregnancy is a swollen belly in the last few days. Her behaviour wouldn't change.

Other things you should check are her eyes, nose, mouth and bottom areas. Do all look clean and clear? Does she look bright and healthy? If you answer yes to all of these then that is a good sign!! Is she actually pooing? Can you see any recent poos?

You mentioned she is eating and moving ok, is she also drinking ok? If not you should encourage her as dehydration is just as damaging as other illnesses.

The only other thing you can really do for her now is make sure she is warm and comfortable, and continues to eat and drink!!!! It sounds like it will need a vets attention to solve the rest of the problem!!

Hope this helps,
Do let me know how she gets on!!

Thanks,
Charlie.