Cerra Haybecker <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote
>
>Can runts go on to be successful breeders and do they live as long?
Yes, yes. Obviously it depends on why they are runts and it may be
difficult for breeder to know whether there is a genetic element or
not.
>
>When the mother is still nursing pups I know that the gestation of the
>next litter can be postponed or come as normal. What is a general rough
>time to expect the second litter?
30-35 days although it can be beyond 40 days.
>
>Should I take out the pups before or after the second litter is born?
>Should I leave only the females or only the males, or should I just
>leave both?
Sex doesn't seem to matter. Leave them in unless the mother appears
aggressive towards them. Pups around when the next litter are born make
better parents. Growth is better with pups left with the parents past
five weeks.
>
>Are seeing nipples on the belly of a pup a safe way to think she is
>female?
That depends on experience. I guess it is a good way. But expect some
mistakes at first. There are much easier methods at 4 weeks on and sex
isn't really important before that age.
>Do male gerbils have nipples too like other animals?
Yes, but very small so you can't really see them.
>
>I give my gerbils balsa wood to knaw on from the hobby shop will this
>work to keep their teeth down and is it safe for them to have in the
>first place?
Balsa is probably too soft to be much good. Washed cuttings from fruit
trees are good and safe.
>
>How often can you give millet?
I presume you mean millet sprays which are not millet at all. They are
safe as long as you do not allow your gerbils to eat too much. An inch
every few days should be OK.
>Currently I am giving about a one - two inch long peice every 4-7 days.
That's fine.
>
>I'm sorry if this message is big and it takes some people a long time to
>get it.
>I don't think I'll have any more questions for a while.
That's OK. I hope someone can fill in my gaps!
--
Julian
************************************************************************
* Jackie and Julian *
* [EMAIL PROTECTED] *
* National Gerbil Society *
* http://www.gerbils.co.uk/ *
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