It is actually quite common for geriatric gerbils to put on weight quite
easily- as they become elderly, I believe their metabolism slows markedly
and many begin to sleep more frequently, both of which contribute to the
weight gain.
I have had several gerbils who had quite "girlish figures" until they got
to be between 2 1/2 and 3 years old- then they began to resemble little
furry snowballs!
Given the absence of other clinical signs and the age of the gerbil, I
wouldn't worry. Although I also know that a trip to the vet gives us gerbil
"parents" some peace of mind- a check-up never hurts!
Jill
----------
> From: Deb Rebel <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: Re: older gerbil's diet
> Date: Wednesday, March 14, 2001 11:10 PM
>
> >Over the past month or so, I have noticed that my almost
> >3-year-old gerbil Kobe has been getting a lot fatter. Is it
> >normal for gerbils to gain weight when they age?
>
> Since you don't mention anything (message deleted material)
> about a change in diet or activity, I'd suspect something like
> heart failure or some other reason for fluid retention. A trip
> to the vet might help, or they might not know what's going on/
> be able to help.
>
> Luck. Three is a good age for a gerbil.
>
> Deb
> Rebel's Rodent Ranch
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