>I took Joe to the vet today, but she didn't seem to have much idea what was
>wrong with him - she just said he's obviously "not very well". She did ask
>whether he could have eaten anything funny, which I'm sure he hasn't, and
>she also said he may be constipated.
It sounds like this vet is not very versed in gerbils or small animals!
>She prescribed him some antibiotics
>anyway and also a painkiller, and suggested I give him some live natural
>yogurt to help his digestive system, but I can't get him to eat any. He's
>not improved at all really - I'm still trying to get him to eat and drink,
>but he's not interested. He has eaten a bit of apple though, and also a
>couple of sunflower seeds. Does anybody have any ideas on anything else
that
>I can do?
You really need to stay on top of his not getting dehydrated. At least
the vet gave him antibiotics....
Rig a 'warm corner' for his tank and keep a close eye on his
state. The fact he ate some apple is good, as apple is high
in moisture.
If he starts to get listless and wants to stay curled up and cold,
you will have to try to force fluids down him anyway or get him
to the vet for subcutaneous rehydration (injecting fluid below
the skin with a syringe).
>Clare
>
>*Thanks to those people who have offered their advice so far.
Good luck.
Deb
Rebel's Rodent Ranch
