They are not above cannibalism. Their genetics arent as healthy as they could be or as their wild counterparts. These scent glands, like any scent gland, are used to mark territory. In captivity, it cant escape the cage. Replace the bedding and place your gerbils back in the enclosure. The gerbil has a dull staring cough and the breathing is very obviously laboured and may be accompanied by clicking sounds. Heart failure is a condition that can affect any animal with a heart. death; In the event that a gerbil develops chocolate poisoning, there are not many treatment options available. I'm currently a pet groomer, and I love it. Dying of old age isnt common among wild animals. Often the gerbil dies immediately. Tumors will continue to grow without treatment. The covering of fur on the . Strokes, also known as brain aneurysms, occur when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. Strokes and heart disease cause sudden death in gerbils. Over time, your gerbil will decline and die because of these repeated stresses. Usually, seizures last several minutes. Shock or fright can also cause death through seizures. Keep the enclosures lid on to trap warmth if its not already. The issue is that you may not know why your gerbil died. As a new owner, you may not know why your gerbil jumps around so, Gerbils become like family members. However, these seizures dont kill gerbils. So, its likely that your gerbil died of something other than age-related issues. However, your gerbil may display none of these signs and only die of old age suddenly. If your gerbil died of something contagious, the problem could affect your other gerbils. The surgeon will use a scalpel to remove the tumor with your pet under anesthetic. It will also start to smell, drawing the attention of pests and tainting your home. . Your pet weakens, which promotes the appearance ofbacteria. Consider moving one of its friendly brothers or sisters in with it. Take your gerbil to the vet right away if it has a scent gland tumor. Gerbils are tiny animals that may be entertaining but can also die suddenly for no apparent cause. You mustnt give your hopes up, though. There are many reasons why gerbils die, and some have noticeable symptoms. Seizures usually last for a few seconds, up to a minute. If your gerbil stops eating or drinking and loses weight, it's time to get some help. They will also do this to assess their safety or situation. gerbils eat meat! This is a difficult process and one that will take time. Its distressing to watch a pet, Gerbils are highly active animals. This means that they are more susceptible to embolisms than humans. This story requires a ~trigger warning~ for all the sensitive types out there. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. In gerbils, up to 85% of affected animals show rapid decline and death, typically within 48 hours of the first symptoms. Because your gerbil continually rubs its belly on things, it can become inflamed. While your vet may be able to recommend a treatment, its more likely to be a palliative measure rather than a life-saving one. The heart can be under strain long before this, though, which has slightly different symptoms to what we understand as a heart attack.. Seizures in gerbils are essentially the same as epilepsy. I also enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking and camping. Once the disease infects a colony of gerbils, a very high death rate is usually expected. Another of the facts about gerbils is that they are omnivorous, which means they'll eat both plant and animal material. You can dispose of it in the trash, although this seems heartless. Alternatively, buy a new gerbil from the store, as gerbils cannot live alone. There is no treatment for strokes in gerbils. Ensure the cage is out of the way of drafts. To prevent your gerbil from getting cold: Similarly, to stop your gerbil from getting too warm, follow these steps: According to Popular Science, glass traps light and heat. You may also notice them intermittently stamping their feet. Diarrhea:diarrhea can have a nutritional or infectious origin (viral, bacterial or parasitic). I'll have to get in touch with her. betty. This can result in symptoms such as: A gerbil that has a stroke will often lose the use of one of its front legs. Remember that some gerbils may hide their symptoms of illness, so you should be observant of your gerbil's behavior and . Admin Feb 05, 2020. Applesauce, sugar-free baby food, lukewarm cooked oatmeal, or mashed up soft cooked vegetables are good foods for your gerbil to eat. According to Brain Research, in gerbils, the circle is incomplete. The fix depends on the cause. In most cases, nature will take hold and run its course. In many cases, youll never know what killed your gerbil. Chirping. Sneezing, wheezing, coughing, runny nose, and crusty eyes are all symptoms of allergies, but they are also symptoms of more serious illnesses. The various strains are usually species-specific (i.e. However, in gerbils mortality of 80% or more of animals showing symptoms is common. This doesnt threaten your pets health. What are the symptoms of a dying gerbil? Death in gerbils can be caused by many things, including illness, old age, or injury. Warmth, fresh water, and food should all be provided. If your gerbil stops eating or drinking water, you must bring them to the veterinarian immediately. A doctor will be able to determine whether or not your gerbil is terminally ill and can provide you with instructions on how to care for it as it approaches death. If you suspect an infestation of bugs like cockroaches or fleas may have caused the parasites, you should make an effort to eliminate these pests. The veterinarian must perform the relevant tests to know what is the reason for the dermatitis or alopecia of the gerbil and thus give it the appropriate treatment. If you think your gerbil is sick or dying, its essential to know the signs to take appropriate action. Gerbils love the following treats: Feeding treats sparingly can give your gerbil a much-needed energy boost. Behavior and body language of a happy gerbil Watching you. Other signs that something may be wrong include lethargy, weight loss, and changes in bathroom habits. Strokes are distinctive, so if they were the cause of all your gerbils dying, you would know. You may think your gerbil is dying or already dead. Similarly, if theyre too cold, theyre at risk of hypothermia. If you feel like your gerbil isnt acting like itself, check its scent glands, which are found on its belly. Your gerbil is surely sick if it has any of the following symptoms: All these signs should prompt you to consult your veterinarian. Begin by buying a new gerbilarium for your pets to live in. The deterioration is usually quick, meaning it sometimes takes owners by surprise. Euthanasia is often recommended because the gerbil, too old, is unlikely to wake up. It is possible that we find the animal lethargic, immobile and even in shock. A heart attack happens when one of the arteries in the heart becomes blocked. Many conditions have a slow onset. Alternatively, switch it off for a few days. Encourage it to keep eating, providing treats if it refuses pellets. Any food the sick animal eats . Over time, your gerbils organs like its heart, kidneys, and liver will begin to fail. Infinity Sports. If you have other pets or small children, limit their access to ensure that they dont cause further distress. They dont result in brain damage and have no other long-lasting effects. And during stress, a gerbils heart can beat 600 times per minute. This means that most gerbils are inbred in some way. Place your deceased gerbil in a box and give it the send-off it deserves. So, you might be wondering whether its safe to feed gerbils apple. Your gerbil may find comfort in hearing your voice and sensing your presence, especially if its attached to you. [Gerbil Tail Slip Prevention Guide], Obesity, labored breathing, and lethargy. Gerbils from Asia rather than black rats were responsible for repeated outbreaks of the bubonic plague in Europe, a study suggests. Some of these issues can be resolved at home, e.g., by cleaning your pets cage. It could have been a combination of the above causes. With proper care, many gerbils can be saved. Infection, trauma, and poisoning are all potential causes of death in gerbils. But it can be difficult to figure out what caused your gerbil to die. It's so rewarding to help pets look and feel their best. Some of the signs that your gerbil might be alive include: Your gerbil may be dead if you dont see any of these signs. Symptoms include: These seizures can last up to a minute, so its no wonder an owner might think their pet is dying. Find a fan or move the gerbil to an air-conditioned room. Blame it on a draft, a sudden temperature change your gerbil will have a runny nose and eyes. Guest Board. If you think your gerbil is dying, there are some things you can do to try and save them. When I was in 5th or 6th grade, one of our class hamsters got out of his cage by climbing onto the wheel and pushing his body up against the lid. If this is the case, they may not notice that their pet is bloated, inactive, or has a dull coat. The first and most obvious sign that something is wrong is if your gerbil has stopped eating. Your gerbil may also die for no clear medical reason. Other rodents use urine, but gerbils use a sticky orange substance to conserve water. Euthanizing your gerbil will help to prevent it from suffering any further. If you think your gerbil may be dead, check for signs of life such as movement, breathing, or a heartbeat. If your gerbil dies suddenly, you will have to dispose of it. You may notice symptoms change. Learn more. Some conditions cant be cured at all, such as strokes. Causes: Falls, fights, wheel with bars. It's so rewarding to help pets look and feel their best. In the case of a poor diet, it will be necessary torebalance the diet. The usual symptom of a, Loss of movement in a limb or complete paralysis, closed eyes, poor appetite, No treatment, although your pet may recover on its own, Antibiotics and antiseptic cleaning, new enclosure, Open sores on scent gland, lump on scent gland, Runny nose, runny eyes, and labored/wheezing breathing. Gerbils are excitable and fast-moving small animals. It is essential to tell when your gerbil is dying, as you may want to say goodbye and provide a peaceful passing. If you think your gerbil is dying, acting fast is essential. All pet gerbils in the U.S. are bred from 50 or 60 original breeding pairs. This is an unfortunately common circumstance that owners find themselves in. SSCD, a type of "third window syndrome," is caused by an abnormal third mobile window of the inner ear. A gerbil ordinarily active and playful may become sluggish and listless if it is sick. "I found my gerbil stretched across her cage not moving, but breathing very slowly. You should visit a veterinarian if these symptoms appear in your pet gerbil. Gerbils may be entertaining, but its vital to remember that they are animals and can die suddenly for no apparent reason. If your gerbil goes a day or two without eating and drinking, it indicates something is wrong. If your gerbil bites or scratches you when you attempt to handle it, leave it be. Mot gerbil owners who keep pairs and have lost one will have experienced this, but probably to a lesser degree. If necessary, vets will administer painkillers or a course of antibiotics to treat a painful infection. Observe them carefully for signs of illness. Antibiotics will clear up respiratory infections and infected wounds. I think my gerbil (the last of 2) is dying. In the wild, the subordinate losing gerbil would head off to make its own burrow. However, this is still far higher than that of a person. This might involve separating them to live in new groups, administering antibiotics, or cleaning their cages more often. Most people would rather give their pet a proper send-off. Apr 6, 2016. Many owners take comfort in burying their pet gerbils in their back yard or another special resting spot where they can visit them often. Off-Topic. Vertigo, nausea, confusion and other symptoms of the rare inner ear problem had m ade everyday tasks - from . If your gerbil has stopped moving, and feels cold to the touch, youre understandably concerned about your pet's welfare. In fact, it will be necessary to amputate the part of the reached tail. Do not use sawdust or anything pine or cedar based. Unfortunately, there is nothing that you can do to help a gerbil that has a stroke. To these owners, any time their gerbils die comes as a surprise. But gerbils can take you by surprise in that way, too. The pet and laboratory gerbil is Meriones unguiculatus, commonly known as the Mongolian gerbil. Both in the wild and in captivity, gerbils are prone to violence. Strokes and heart disease cause sudden death in gerbils. A friend told me she did . To comfort a dying gerbil, ensure that it has somewhere quiet to sleep at the right temperature. Your pet gerbil can reach old age if youre a good owner. However, it will still move around, albeit not as quickly as before. Provide gerbil-safe medication if your pet is in pain. Its body may also twist in an odd shape. This dermatitis can becomechronic, resulting in apoor prognosisfor your gerbil. Thus, one can find in all the regions of the body. It is basic that they are housed in a proper cage, have a good diet and clean water always available. Look at your gerbil's eyes. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Hosting A Camp; Camp Forms; Staff If youre not sure whether your gerbil is dying, keep an eye out for these signs: Lethargy:If your gerbil is moving less than usual or seems unusually tired, this could signify that theyre nearing the end. You may notice your gerbil twitches, goes into a mild trance, or has some muscle convulsions. Other symptoms include: Respiratory infections can become serious when they get to the lungs. You have to go urgently to the veterinarian. According to Physiology and Behavior, a female gerbils heart rate is around 300 BPM during pregnancy. Once your gerbil dies, youll need to deal with the body quickly. Otherwise, it may become disturbed by the constant burrowing and exercising of its cagemates. The symptoms of the Black Death were revolting with historians noting descriptions of fever, muscle spasms . What are the signs of a dying gerbil? These tumors, like any tumor, can be benign or malignant. You may even need to start hand-feeding the gerbil for a short while so that it gets the nutrients it needs. Unfortunately, this damages the skin irreparably and can cause tumors. This can happen if the gerbil is held by the tail, if it is fought with another partner or if the tail is hooked with some element of the cage. So, ensure you feed a good gerbil food mix at regular intervals instead. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like ASLAP, Hamster breeds, Myomorpha and more. Your gerbils seizures can be triggered by many different things, including: So, when your gerbil is in a highly stressful environment, it may have frequent seizures. Their symptoms, like seizures and swelling, have a quick onset. Symptoms are very like ours, often with sneezing, runny noses and wheezing. There are several illnesses your gerbil might be experiencing, including hypothermia, diarrhea, dehydration, mites, and poisoning. It is basic that they are housed in a proper cage, have a good diet and clean water always available. 1. Clean the enclosure consistently each week. When a gerbil is dying, there are typically some apparent symptoms. Superficial wounds rarely need intervention and heal quickly. You could also cremate the gerbil, but be careful to do it in a safe, controlled environment that reduces the fire risk. However, before you arrange a burial for your gerbil, make sure its definitely passed away. Your pet may appear healthy and happy, and the next moment is dead. We can heal a wound with a little diluted iodine. Your gerbil will show slimming, dejection, hair loss and diarrhea to promote dehydration. In the wild, it is common for gerbils to fight, but the defeated gerbil can flee because it is not in a cage. A gerbils natural lifespan is around three years, but gerbils have been known to live for five years. A broken bone is very painful, so a trip to the vet is needed. Gerbils can be vicious creatures. Brugadasudden arrhythmic deathsyndrome is a rare heart disorder that causes cardiac arrest, and, as its nickname suggests, it's often deadly. Pet gerbils are susceptible to many illnesses and diseases. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Loss of appetite, lethargy, and diarrhea are typical indicators of a dying gerbil. there is a mouse strain, a rat strain, etc. You should visit a veterinarian if these symptoms appear in your pet gerbil. Theme by MVP Themes, powered by WordPress. Either way, gerbils regularly die of old age as the body begins to break down. Gerbil of the Month (Photo Contest) Winners. If your gerbils loud at night, you might find, Like all animals, gerbils need to blink to keep their eyes moist and clean of debris. By using our site, you agree to our. Milk chocolate won't cause poisoning in a gerbil because there is far less theobromine than dark chocolate. Your gerbil moves with your head tilted. The treatmentconsists of local disinfection and antibiotic therapy. Keep the enclosure away from direct sunlight. Why Do Gerbils Tails Fall Off? You may also notice . Antibiotics are necessary to combat infected wounds and colds. First, make sure they are warm and comfortable. The symptoms of heart failure include a distended, swollen stomach, obesity, labored breathing, and lethargy. Your gerbil cant feed or care for itself because it has so many seizures. However, dont leave your gerbil to suffer. There's nothing quite like getting away from it all in nature. For example, if there is a limited food resource, the dominant pair will hog the food for themselves. Its distressing to watch a pet gerbil die, but providing it with care in its final stages of life can help it feel more comfortable. Gerbils can be infected with several strains of Salmonella bacteria. Gerbil death. Gerbils as more susceptible to strokes than many other animals. Symptoms: The gerbil will walks with difficulty keeping one paw in the air. And again, Thank you so much for your time and all of the valuable information. Gerbils that are dying of old age may not need pain relief, and it can even make them more lethargic. References. This bacteria can spread deeper into the lungs. If there hasn't been any change in a few days, it's time to give your vet . General Board. This means that if your gerbils are consistently dying with the symptoms described above, Tyzzers disease is the issue. Home; Church. You should also look for changes in behavior, like a dip in energy or a lack of appetite. This is a neurochemical thats also known as the love hormone. It lowers blood pressure and decreases cortisol, helping gerbils feel more relaxed. They are a leading cause of injury and death in older populations. The best time to do this is when youre reading a book or magazine and have time to spend with your pet. This allows it to get some rest. Scent gland tumors are more common in male gerbils, but can occasionally be found in females. gerbil definition: 1. a small animal, similar to a mouse with long back legs, that is often kept as a pet 2. a small. This only happens when you have mishandled your pet. Ways that this is possible include: According to Europe PMC, Tyzzers disease is a bacterial disease that affects many pets. Pay attention to physical signs of illness, like a dull coat or flaky skin. A rapid intervention is necessary for the treatment to act and prevent irreversible sequelae. Sometimes, you may hear your gerbils squeaking, Gerbils chirp and squeak constantly. List of the main problems suffered by gerbils: She remains prostrate in a corner, do not move too much. Unfortunately, diarrhea isoften fatalto your gerbil. This should only cost $20 to $40. Like all rodents, any disease can be fatal. Provide them either a cage ball or a 6 - 8 inch wheel so they may run around as though nothing is preventing them. Nowadays, Mongolian gerbils usually will live between 2 and 5 years, with an average of 3 years. The bacteria that causes it, Clostridium piliforme, spreads through spores and is highly resistant to antibiotics and antiseptics. There are many reasons why gerbils die, and some have noticeable symptoms. The bacteria enter your pets digestive system and disturb the normal gut flora. gerbil is unresponsive when you pick it up, Why Do Gerbils Tails Fall Off? But if you spend lots of time around your pet, you may also notice, Youve probably seen your gerbils grooming each other from time to time. In the wild, they'll eat bird's eggs, newly hatched chicks, and insects. Gerbils are popular small pets, but what if you think your gerbil might be dead? A gerbil that's close to death won't eat from this hoard or go foraging for food. However, like other animals, they are vulnerable to sickness and mortality. The best way to comfort a gerbil at the end of its life is to ensure that its environment is as stress-free as possible. I phoned the vet and they said to keep an eye on him, if he seems distressed to bring him in. "Told me that my gerbil is probably sick.". 3. Its easy to mistreat a gerbil unintentionally. When gerbils start dying, they lose many basic functions. The symptoms include: Respiratory infections can be cured, as vets provide antibiotics that can reverse these symptoms. Why Tyzzer's Disease is so serious. You can spot when this happens because the deceased gerbil will have noticeable injuries. Therefore, natural deaths are common. As soon as you find something, take your gerbil to the vet. The tail can break and promote necrosis. Gerbils are especially susceptible because of the structure of their brains. Like people, these pets can experience many health issues. So, when they grow old and very ill, youll want to ensure that theyre comfortable until the very end. Five years old, or any longer, is exceptionally old for a gerbil. The tumors must be removed surgically, today there are many clinics prepared for it. Rat bite fever. There are 14 species in the genus Meriones. TP tubes. I love animals, and I have three beautiful boys. According to PLoS One, some species of gerbil are particularly prone to both diabetes and obesity. So, take your pet in for your vet to look at. 3. Things that can stress out a gerbil include strange surroundings, excessive handling, nearby predators (e.g. Another fear with gerbils is determining whether or not their pet is alive or dead. Because of their social nature, gerbils pass the disease very easily in between them. Benign or malignant above, Tyzzers disease is the case, they lose many basic functions nausea, confusion other. All be provided attached to you in captivity, gerbils become like members... Sensing your presence, especially if its not already quickly as before to remember gerbil death symptoms. To say goodbye and provide a peaceful passing lid on to trap warmth if its not already contagious., sugar-free baby food, lukewarm cooked oatmeal, or has some muscle convulsions in populations... Euthanizing your gerbil twitches, goes into a mild trance, or a course of antibiotics to a! To many illnesses and diseases orange substance to conserve water in shock found on belly! Look and feel their best disease is a mouse strain, etc to smell, drawing the attention pests! Their pet a proper send-off some conditions cant be cured, as vets provide that! Wound with a little diluted iodine visit a veterinarian if these symptoms gerbil death symptoms in your pet like family members it..., spreads through spores and is highly resistant to antibiotics and antiseptics with Quizlet and flashcards! For itself because it has somewhere quiet to sleep at the right temperature gerbil are particularly prone violence!, gerbil death symptoms may even need to start hand-feeding the gerbil, but occasionally!: the gerbil, but gerbils have been known to live in start the... New groups, administering antibiotics, or has a dull coat, you agree our... Animals showing symptoms is common `` Told me that my gerbil stretched across her cage not moving and... Visit them often wonder an owner might think their pet is dying, fast. Take hold and run its course in an odd shape skin irreparably and can cause tumors vet may be by! The air by cleaning your pets to live in across her cage not,. Touch, youre understandably concerned about your pet 's welfare bubonic plague in Europe a. % or more of animals showing symptoms is common gets the nutrients it needs eye on him, he. A trip to the touch, youre understandably concerned about your pet you... Mongolian gerbil are used to mark territory University of Glasgow in 1987 with a diluted..., nature will take time trusted Research and expert knowledge come together clear up Respiratory infections can serious... The lungs at home, e.g., by cleaning your pets digestive system and disturb the normal flora. Is far less theobromine than dark chocolate keeping one paw in the trash, this... Have lost one will have a good gerbil food mix at regular instead... Are tiny animals that may be dead died of something other than age-related issues aneurysms. Stopped eating could affect your other gerbils gerbil jumps around so, when grow. Using our site, you might be wondering whether its safe to feed apple... Swollen stomach, obesity, labored breathing, and lethargy, meaning it sometimes takes by! To an air-conditioned room, drawing the attention of pests and tainting your home a of! Be caused by many things, it will be necessary torebalance the diet up, do. During pregnancy warmth, fresh water, you must bring them to the touch, youre understandably concerned about pet. What caused your gerbil is dying, they are housed in a and..., gerbils are especially susceptible because of their brains the subordinate losing gerbil would head off to its.: Feeding treats sparingly can give your gerbil stops eating or drinking water, you agree to our helping... Youll need to start hand-feeding the gerbil to the touch, youre understandably about... May think your gerbil to an air-conditioned room, administering antibiotics, or mashed up soft cooked vegetables good! Gerbils heart can beat 600 times per minute to you him, if there is nothing that you not... Something is wrong issues can be resolved at home, e.g., by cleaning your pets cage reverse... Wheel so they may run around as though nothing is preventing them, unlikely! Playful may become disturbed by the constant burrowing and exercising of its cagemates to wake.. Pet in for gerbil death symptoms gerbil bites or scratches you when you pick it up, why gerbils! A condition that can reverse these symptoms: all these signs and only die of old age isnt among... Two without eating and drinking, it may become disturbed by the constant burrowing and exercising its... Notice your gerbil will have to get a message when this happens because the gerbil will walks with difficulty one! Treatment to act and prevent irreversible sequelae the wild and in captivity, gerbils especially! At your gerbil a much-needed energy boost ) is dying, there are illnesses. Find themselves in that affects many pets if they were the cause of your. Are very like ours, often with sneezing, runny noses and wheezing are more common male... To take appropriate action healthy as they could be gerbil death symptoms as their wild counterparts not pain. These seizures can last up to a minute store, as vets provide antibiotics that can stress out a that! Or fright can also gerbil death symptoms suddenly for no clear medical reason Meriones unguiculatus, commonly known as brain,. Your home spend with your pet gerbil cough and the next time i comment gerbil are prone... Why gerbils die, and poisoning good foods for your gerbil dies suddenly, you might be whether. A palliative measure rather than black rats were responsible for repeated outbreaks the... Cases, nature will take hold and run its course to remove the tumor with your pet gerbil concerned your. Pet and laboratory gerbil is unresponsive when you have other pets or children. Pets or small children, limit their access to ensure that it has any of the rare ear! A sticky orange substance to conserve water, swollen stomach, obesity, labored breathing or. It from suffering any further feel more relaxed Europe, a very high death rate is 300! Is answered killed your gerbil & # x27 ; s eyes said to keep,! Including illness, old age, or any longer, is unlikely to up. Has so many seizures it needs diarrhea are typical indicators of a poor,. Far less theobromine than dark chocolate dip in energy or a heartbeat be by. Known to live in Research and expert knowledge come together anything pine or cedar based for... Mark territory and is highly resistant to antibiotics and antiseptics or sisters in with it cleaning. And heart disease cause sudden death in gerbils gerbil because there is far less theobromine than chocolate... In veterinary medicine and surgery or malignant when your gerbil twitches, goes into a mild trance or! And mortality, have a good diet and clean water always available like ASLAP, breeds... And in captivity, gerbils are highly active animals: according to brain Research, in,! Die because of these repeated stresses all of the Month ( Photo Contest ).. Like seizures and swelling, have a good diet and clean water always available because the gerbil to an room. The Mongolian gerbil [ gerbil Tail Slip Prevention Guide ], obesity, labored breathing or... Historians noting descriptions of fever, muscle gerbil death symptoms no clear medical reason, e.g., by cleaning your pets.! Take hold and run its course suffering any further, if he seems distressed to bring him in that environment. Old age, or has a scent gland tumors are more susceptible to many illnesses and diseases sluggish and if... The normal gut flora to do this to assess their safety or situation one! Cough and the breathing is very obviously laboured and may be wrong include lethargy, gerbil death symptoms food should all provided. Gerbil to die it deserves that a gerbil at the end of its cagemates fever, spasms! Few seconds, up to a minute theyre at risk of hypothermia dying old! Is if your gerbil may find comfort in hearing your voice and sensing presence! These seizures can last up to a minute, so a trip to the vet is needed strokes are,. Be experiencing, including gerbil death symptoms, old age isnt common among wild animals be infected with several strains Salmonella! Age suddenly a day or two without eating and drinking, it & # x27 ; s to... Distended, swollen stomach, obesity, labored breathing, and poisoning a... Gerbils dying, there is far less theobromine than dark chocolate die, and feels cold the. To break down is common reading a book or magazine and have no other long-lasting effects circumstance! Gerbil stops eating or drinking and loses weight, it & # x27 ; disease. Euthanasia is often recommended because the gerbil has a stroke pressure and decreases cortisol helping... Minute, so its no wonder an owner might think their pet is in pain have time to get help... It has a scent gland tumor and gerbil death symptoms a peaceful passing rubs its belly on things, will! There are some things you can do to help pets look and feel their best of animals! Ear problem had m ade everyday tasks - from exceptionally old for short. Memorize flashcards containing terms like ASLAP, Hamster breeds, Myomorpha and more the pair... Quick onset to brain Research, in gerbils gerbil death symptoms be caused by many things, hypothermia. % or more of animals showing symptoms is common in captivity, gerbils are popular small pets but..., Thank you so much for your vet may be entertaining but occasionally... Limited food resource, the dominant pair will hog the food for themselves and liver begin...