What is toxic to gerbils?
Gerbils are adorable small rodents known for their intelligence, curiosity, and lively nature, making them beloved pets for many. Personally, I have two gerbils named Snowy and Blackie, bringing joy to my life. However, as someone with years of experience in gerbil care, I understand that gerbils are sensitive creatures, and their bodies are easily harmed by toxic substances. Therefore, in feeding and daily care, it’s crucial to avoid exposing gerbils to poisonous foods or items to ensure their health and safety. So, what is toxic to gerbils? This article will provide a detailed explanation.
Toxic Foods for Gerbils
Gerbils’ diet should primarily consist of hay, with occasional servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with high-protein foods like insects or eggs. However, not all foods are suitable for gerbils, and some can be toxic, even lethal. Here are some foods toxic to gerbils that should be avoided:
Foods containing cyanide: Cyanide is a toxic chemical that can disrupt a gerbil’s respiratory system, leading to suffocation and death. Fruits’ pits or seeds, such as apple seeds, almonds, peach pits, etc., contain cyanide and should not be fed to gerbils, or at least the pits or seeds should be removed.
High-fat foods: Gerbils’ digestive systems are not equipped to handle high-fat foods, putting excessive strain on their livers and causing diseases like fatty liver. Foods like chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, etc., which are high in fat, should not be given to gerbils or should be given in very small amounts.
Dairy products: Gerbils are lactose intolerant, unable to digest lactose found in milk and dairy products. Feeding gerbils dairy products like cheese, yogurt, etc., can lead to symptoms of indigestion such as diarrhea, bloating, dehydration, and malnutrition.
Vegetables: Not all vegetables are beneficial for gerbils; some may contain toxic compounds or produce gas affecting gerbils’ digestion. For example, unpeeled cucumbers, tomatoes, which have toxic seeds, and onions, garlic, potatoes, which can produce gas, leading to bloating and pain in gerbils.
Stale or spoiled food: Gerbils’ food should be kept fresh and clean. Spoiled or contaminated food, such as moldy hay, discolored fruits, or expired feed, may contain toxic substances, causing infections and poisoning in gerbils.
Toxic Items for Gerbils
Apart from food, gerbil accessories should also be considered, as some items may be toxic or cause harm to gerbils. Here are some toxic items for gerbils to avoid:
Plastic toys: Gerbils have a natural tendency to chew on things. However, giving them plastic toys might result in them gnawing on the plastic, swallowing it, and causing intestinal blockage or perforation. Hence, it’s safer to provide gerbils with safe toys like wood, grass weaves, or paper-based options.
Cigarette ashes: Cigarette ashes contain nicotine, a toxic substance for gerbils that affects their nervous system, leading to poisoning and death. Smoking around gerbils or letting them come into contact with cigarette ashes should be avoided.
Newspaper ink: Ink in printed newspapers contains lead and other heavy metals, which are toxic to gerbils, causing damage to their nervous and circulatory systems. Avoid using printed newspaper as bedding or providing it as toys to gerbils.
Pine shavings: Pine shavings, a common bedding material for gerbils, releases a substance called pine resin, which harms their respiratory systems, causing breathing difficulties and pneumonia. Choosing odorless and safe bedding alternatives like paper shavings or cotton is recommended.
Unclean water devices: Gerbils’ water devices should be regularly cleaned and replaced to ensure fresh and hygienic water. If not cleaned, bacteria and algae can grow, contaminating the water source and leading to infections and poisoning in gerbils. Daily cleaning and periodic water changes are necessary.
Identification of Poisoning Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea: Signs of irritation or infection in gerbils’ digestive systems, leading to dehydration, malnutrition, shock, and potential death. In such cases, stop feeding immediately, provide clean water, observe the gerbil’s mental state and body temperature, and consult a vet if the condition worsens.
Lethargy, weight loss: Common symptoms of gerbil poisoning, characterized by reduced activity, decreased appetite, dull fur, and lifeless eyes. If these symptoms occur, use a weight scale to measure the gerbil’s weight. If a significant weight loss is observed, promptly identify the cause, provide nutritional supplements and water, and seek veterinary attention if necessary.
Oral inflammation, reduced eating: Indications of toxic substance irritation or infection in gerbils’ mouths, resulting in redness, ulcers, bleeding, affecting eating and chewing. In such cases, gently wipe the gerbil’s mouth with a cotton swab or cloth, provide soft foods like cooked vegetables or fruit puree, and consult a vet if the condition does not improve.
Muscle spasms, constant shaking: Symptoms of gerbil neurological system damage due to toxic substances, causing muscle contractions, body twitching, eye movement, and difficulty breathing. This is a critical situation requiring immediate intervention. If these symptoms occur, wrap the gerbil in a towel or cloth to prevent further harm, and promptly take it to the vet for detoxification or anti-seizure medication.
Light aversion, unsteady gait: Indications of toxic substance impact on gerbils’ visual system, leading to red eyes, discharge, conjunctivitis, affecting their vision and orientation. If these symptoms arise, wash the gerbil’s eyes with warm water or saline solution, provide a quiet and dim environment, avoid stimulating their eyes, and seek veterinary attention if the situation worsens.
Responding to Poisoning Incidents
Immediately remove toxic substances: The crucial first step is to identify and swiftly remove the toxic substance gerbils have come into contact with to prevent further ingestion or absorption. If the gerbil’s mouth or skin is contaminated with a toxic substance, clean it with warm water or saline solution. If the gerbil’s fur is contaminated, trim or shave it to prevent ingestion.
Contact a vet for detoxification treatment: The most effective measure is to promptly contact a vet, informing them of the gerbil’s condition and potential exposure to toxic substances, allowing them to administer detoxification treatment. The vet will inject detoxifying agents or administer activated charcoal to help the gerbil expel toxins or neutralize their effects, depending on the symptoms and types of toxic substances.
Add vitamins to the diet to promote recovery: It is essential to add some vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, to the gerbil’s diet to aid in recovery, enhance their immune system, and antioxidant capabilities. Providing vitamin-rich foods like oranges, carrots, or supplementing with vitamin C solutions or vitamin E capsules can assist in the gerbil’s recovery.
Monitor symptoms daily: This is a crucial step. Observe the gerbil’s symptoms daily to assess whether there are signs of improvement or deterioration, along with their mental state and appetite. If there is improvement, one can gradually reintroduce regular food and monitor for any relapse or new symptoms. If there is deterioration, immediate veterinary attention is required to adjust the treatment plan.
Preventing Future Poisoning Incidents
Store toxic substances securely: Always store household chemicals, medications, and toxic plants securely in places that gerbils cannot access. Use childproof locks on cabinets or keep them out of reach. Additionally, be cautious with foods that may be toxic to gerbils, and keep them in sealed containers or storage areas away from the gerbil’s living space.
Choose gerbil-safe products: When purchasing bedding, toys, or other accessories for gerbils, ensure that they are made from gerbil-safe materials. Opt for natural, non-toxic, and untreated items. Avoid plastic toys, inked newspapers, and pine shavings, opting for safer alternatives.
Monitor their environment: Regularly inspect the gerbil’s environment for potential hazards or toxic substances. Ensure that their living space is clean and free from any harmful materials. This includes checking their cage for any plastic or harmful items they may have chewed or ingested.
Provide a balanced diet: Offer a balanced and appropriate diet for gerbils, focusing on fresh hay, vegetables, and suitable treats. Avoid feeding them foods that are toxic to gerbils and ensure that their diet meets their nutritional needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preventing poisoning incidents is crucial for the health and well-being of gerbils. Understanding the toxic foods and items for gerbils, recognizing poisoning symptoms, and responding promptly can make a significant difference in their recovery. By providing a safe and healthy environment, choosing gerbil-friendly products, and maintaining a balanced diet, gerbil owners can ensure a happy and thriving life for their furry friends. Always consult with a veterinarian for professional advice and guidance on gerbil care and poisoning incidents.
