Common health problems to look out for in gerbils:

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- Scent gland tumours (usually in middle aged & old males) Check your gerbils scent glands (the line down their tummy) regularly for any signs of lumps. If they develop a lump book them in with a gerbil-savvy vet for it to be removed asap. Neutered males are less likely to develop scent gland tumours but still check their scent glands regularly anyway

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- Respiratory problems, any clicky breathing or sneezing requires a vet visit for antibiotics. Another symptom can be porphyrin (red liquid) gathering around the nose or eyes

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- Strokes can occur, look out for any wobbliness, head tilt, struggling to hold food properly

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- Dental issues, misaligned or overgrown teeth need burring (not clipping!) by a vet

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- Weigh your gerbils regularly so that you notice if they start to lose weight because that can be one of the first signs of some illnesses

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