pets

Question
Hello: i have got 2 gerbils and i have been told they are from the rat family. one off my gerbils front leg is not right it looks like it is walking on it wrist if you no what i mean it does not seem to be causing it any pain but does it need looking at or have you add anything like this with your rats. anything to put me in the right direction please. THANK YOU Annie may. . . . . .

Answer
If his leg was like that when you got him, it isn't swollen, red, hot, or hanging there loose, it's possible that it was a break that healed incorrectly.  If so then it's fine to leave him; a vet can't really do anything about it except amputate the foot but since he is walking on it it probably isn't painful so that wouldn't be necessary.

If it was like this after you got him, or you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should take him to a vet for an examination.  There may be something that could be done for him to help him heal correctly or stave off infection if there is any open sores or fractures.

Hope that helps you out, good luck with your gerbil!