Accepted Answer

Thank you for getting back to me. If the dowel was made of treated wood, it could definitely make a gerbil sick. Some types of wood, such as pine or cedar, are also risky even when not treated. Unfortunately, with an animal as small as a gerbil, there isn't going to be very much you can do. They don't vomit, so you can't induce vomiting. It's also possible that something unrelated to the dowel is causing the illness. For these reasons, the best thing to do would be to see a vet. A vet can offer supportive treatment, such as fluids, and can determine if something else is wrong. These links will take you to directories of vets who treat small rodents:

http://www.rmca.org/Vets/index.php?action=list

http://www.ratfanclub.org/vetref.html

If you're unable to see a vet, feed your gerbil fiber-rich (hay, apple with peeling, etc.) foods to try to push the wood through the system quickly. Some charcoal can help neutralize any toxins. It's available in health food stores, often in capsules. You can just open a capsule and put some on a treat, such as fruit or a little bit of whole-grain bread. The charcoal is flavorless. You can also mix some with water and use a syringe to put it in the side of the gerbil's mouth. However, if your gerbil isn't eating, don't try to force-feed anything. Pieces of wood can also cause intestinal blockages, and in that case, additional food would be dangerous - you'll need to see a vet.

If you have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. I hope your gerbil will be fine.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	8/26/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant