my pet gerbil

Question
Hi Jen
 My pet gerbil seemed fine this morning but after work I noticed his head is to one side.  His eye is not as open on that side either.  I also noticed his nose is red. I cant think of how he could get injured. We dont handle him other then to pat him. His cage has always been safe we haven't changed it. What could be happening , a stroke maybe? He is over three years old.   Donna  

Answer
Hi donna, bless the little old chap! it sounds like he could have an infection, either in his ear or eye if he is tilting,or maybe he banged himself on something in the cage, there is of course the possibility of it being something worse, so i really have to urge you to see a vet to get him checked over, if it is an infection a course of antibiotics should clear it right up. Hope that is of some help and i hope he is ok, let me know how you get on, good luck, Jen