|
|
Post by bananaboat on Nov 17, 2022 13:05:50 GMT -8
I have a gerbil who I think is pregnant. She seems to be otherwise healthy and is acting like her usual active and happy self, but she has a lot of red around one of her eyes. I think it’s mucous since it doesn’t look like blood, but I’m worried because she is usually completely white. Should I be worried? Does this have to do with her pregnancy? She should be giving birth in about 10 days. Your help is appreciated!
Edit: She did wash it off, and now it looks fine. But, why was there so much mucous on one eye? Any ideas on what could have caused this?
|
|
|
|
Post by tanzanyte on Nov 19, 2022 14:20:47 GMT -8
It's porphyrin, which is similar to our tears. It can be a sign of stress or illness, or irritation so if you notice more of it than normal then check if there are other symptoms. I'm not sure if pregnancy can cause more porphyrin. Maybe someone with more knowledge of breeding will be able to answer that one.
I hope she is doing ok given that it sounds like the birth will be imminent.
|
|
|
|
Post by betty on Nov 20, 2022 11:41:20 GMT -8
bananaboat - how is she? Pregnancy can be a HUGE strain on the body so it isn't suprising if they have the odd minor issue along the way. If it was just this one off I wouldn't be too concerned, however there are things that you can top up on husbandry-wise if you aren't already. Things like adding in more easily-accessible (digestively) foods and additional things - like almond flour, egg biscuits, walnuts, porridge oats, pine nuts. Scatter these around and feed them little and often or in a shallow dish/jar lid - as many of these (are expensive, and) become nutritionally compromised easily with heat/contamination etc. Make sure there is a regular supply of fresh things - teeny amount only each day - but the variety is important. As for other 'stressful' things for mums include quiet, calm postiioning of the enclosure; feeling safe in their nest - materials to make the nest - then change their mind and make another one; as well as a place away from the nest to relax. There are plenty more things that can make things more relaxing for mums - but it also depends on the mum of course. Is she alone or still with dad?
|
|
