Maintaining your gerbil’s health is crucial. When gerbil illness strikes, you need to take immediate action by calling your veterinarian. Gerald Barker, DVM, Copeland Veterinary Hospital, Cookeville, Tenn., lists signs that indicate illness in your pet gerbil.

Signs indicating gerbil illness:

• Not eating, drinking, or playing
  
• Diarrhea or wetness around bottom
  
• Fur loss around nose and eyes
  
• Skin problems, especially around belly
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Discharge from nose
  
• Ungroomed appearance
  
• Lameness
  
• Lethargy
  

Signs indicating a healthy gerbil:

• Gregarious attitude
  
• Good appetite
  
• Alert
  
• Playful
  
• Likes being held
  
• Aware of environment
  

If you notice any signs indicating gerbil illness, or if you pet gerbil is not exhibiting healthy behaviors, call your veterinarian immediately.