Why do gerbils spin?
The gerbil will sleep more then usual. Head tilting or spinning in circles can indicate ear infections which can come from blockage, mites, infections or cuts from scratching. These same symptoms could also indicate a stroke.
When should I take my gerbil to the vet?
Gerbils require at least annual physical examinations and fecal tests to check for parasites. Neutering also can be discussed with the veterinarian. Older gerbils should be checked by a veterinarian twice a year. Gerbils do not require vaccines, but they do require annual examinations.
Can I kiss my gerbil?
Pet rodents (such as hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, guinea pigs) can make great pets for the right family. Do not kiss, nuzzle, or hold rodents close to your face. This can startle your rodents and also increase your chances of being bitten.
What to do if your gerbil has a head tilt?
See if your gerbil is having difficulty walking straight. Gerbils with head tilt will often walk or run in a continuous circle. With the imbalance that causes a head tilt, your gerbil won’t be able to walk or run in a straight line. If you notice your gerbil moving this way, keep an eye on it until you can get it to the vet.
Why does my gerbil walk on the left side?
Your gerbil’s head may tilt to the left or the right, but it won’t change sides while it’s happening. In other words, if the tilt started on the left side, it will stay there. Pay attention to your gerbil’s balance. Just because your gerbil isn’t walking in circles doesn’t mean it doesn’t have head tilt.
When do gerbils lose one of their front teeth?
This can occur in gerbils who have lost one of the front incisor teeth or in older gerbils who don’t tend to chew as much as their younger counterparts. It is usually first identified when the gerbil begins to lose weight.
When do gerbils stop making high pitched chirps?
Baby gerbils, up to the age of 4 or 5 months, tend to ‘talk’ a lot. Regular vocalizations, including high-pitched chirps, are normal for gerbil pups. Once your gerbil reaches adulthood, it won’t make as many noises anymore. You may notice the occasional squeak, but that’s about all.
See if your gerbil is having difficulty walking straight. Gerbils with head tilt will often walk or run in a continuous circle. With the imbalance that causes a head tilt, your gerbil won’t be able to walk or run in a straight line. If you notice your gerbil moving this way, keep an eye on it until you can get it to the vet.
Your gerbil’s head may tilt to the left or the right, but it won’t change sides while it’s happening. In other words, if the tilt started on the left side, it will stay there. Pay attention to your gerbil’s balance. Just because your gerbil isn’t walking in circles doesn’t mean it doesn’t have head tilt.
What does a gerbil do when it is curious?
Your gerbil may also sit on its hind legs and stare at its surroundings with its arms at its sides to show it is curious. It may also sniff the air and move its head around to try to get a better look at the item or person it is curious about.
This can occur in gerbils who have lost one of the front incisor teeth or in older gerbils who don’t tend to chew as much as their younger counterparts. It is usually first identified when the gerbil begins to lose weight.
