Respiratory Issues in Gerbils

Gerbils are desert animals adapted to a dry climate, and they are generally quite healthy. However, they can develop respiratory infections, which are often tied to their environment. A simple upper respiratory infection (URI) can become serious if it progresses to pneumonia, so it's important for owners to recognize the signs and understand the preventative measures.

Causes of Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections in gerbils are usually bacterial and are often triggered by environmental stress or improper husbandry.

• Bedding: This is a common culprit. Aromatic bedding like cedar and non-kiln-dried pine release phenols, which are toxic oils that damage the respiratory tract. Bedding that is too dusty can also cause irritation.
• Ammonia Buildup: A dirty cage with a buildup of urine will have high levels of ammonia fumes. These fumes are highly irritating to the lungs and make them susceptible to infection. This is a major issue in tank-style enclosures if they are not cleaned frequently enough.
• Stress: A stressful environment (due to overcrowding, lack of burrowing space, etc.) can weaken the immune system.
• Other Illnesses: A gerbil that is already sick with another condition, such as a scent gland tumor, may be more likely to develop a secondary respiratory infection.

Signs of a Respiratory Problem

Gerbils are active and curious by nature. A gerbil that is lethargic or hiding is often a sick gerbil.

• Clicking or Rattling Sounds: This is a classic sign of a respiratory infection in small rodents. You may hear a clicking or rattling sound as the gerbil breathes.
• Labored Breathing: The gerbil's sides may move in and out noticeably with each breath.
• Nasal Discharge: Any wetness or crustiness around the nose.
• Porphyrin Staining: The gerbil may have red-brown crust around its nose or eyes. This is not blood; it is a pigment secreted by a gland behind the eye called the Harderian gland. Excess porphyrin is a non-specific sign of stress or illness.
• Lethargy: The gerbil may be less active, sleep more, and lose interest in its surroundings.
• Loss of Appetite.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you hear your gerbil making clicking sounds or notice other signs of respiratory distress, a veterinary visit is necessary.

• Diagnosis: The veterinarian will listen to your gerbil's chest with a stethoscope. A chest x-ray may be recommended to check for pneumonia.
• Treatment: A course of oral antibiotics is the standard treatment. It is vital to give the full course of medication as prescribed by your vet, even if the symptoms improve.

Prevention: A Healthy Environment

Preventing respiratory issues is centered on providing a clean and appropriate habitat.

• Use Safe Bedding: The best beddings for gerbils are aspen shavings or paper-based beddings. Provide a very deep layer (at least 8-10 inches) to allow for natural burrowing behavior, which reduces stress.
• Avoid Cedar and Pine: Never use cedar or non-kiln-dried pine shavings.
• Ensure Good Ventilation: While gerbils are often kept in tanks to accommodate deep bedding, the tank must have a well-ventilated wire mesh lid. Do not use a solid glass or plastic lid.
• Keep the Cage Clean: Spot clean the cage regularly and perform full bedding changes as needed to prevent the buildup of ammonia.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A strong immune system, supported by a good diet, is the first line of defense against infection.