Freddie is about two and a half years old now, if I assume he was six weeks when I got him. Neither he nor Fergie grew any, so anyone's guess is as good as mine on age. Gerbils typically live up to four years, but Freddie is starting to show signs of age. He is drinking more, sleeping more, running around less, and doesn't always burrow to sleep. I also think he's busy trying to find a mate since he STINKS to high heaven at the moment! (Okay, okay, its just musk-scent, but still.. male stink in my apartment! Eww..)
He's still cheerful, still curious, and still willing to take a sunflower seed from my finger and give me a lick of thanks. (He'll even crawl into my hand for a pumpkin seed, but I only have those when I raid my Dad's stash.) He's about 60 in human years, so slowing down a little is perfectly natural. I keep meaning to stop by Sardis Park and pick up some willow for him to chew on - the ASA in it is good for him and might help if he has some arthritis. On cold/damp morning he's less destructive/enthusiastic and than on dry ones.
Of course, gerbils as desert mice, so he's probably a bit confused by this rain forest existence anyway.
But, over all, still perfectly able and willing to pester his bunny friends. :)
Pumpkin seeds are so good for him. Lots of magnesium to help his old muscles aches. I am sure you can find raw seeds without salt. If you can't, let me know and I can get some for you here and ship them to you. Anything for a brave Gerbil with bunny sensibilities.
ReplyDeleteI guess turn about is fair play.. I try to corrupt your bunnies, you corrupt my gerbil.. :)
DeleteMy Dad, the softie, has declared he has a stash aside for Freddie and will give it to me at Thanksgiving. (Ours is Oct 12 this year)
Delete..Anyone want to guess who I inheritated my sucker for cute fuzzy (and feathered) animals from? :)
Mr. Mick is approaching senior citizen status as well--they can be a pair of grumpy old men together. :)
ReplyDeleteFreddie would like to point out Mr Mick is already a grumpy bun. :)
Deletehehehe Freddie's not grumpy he's a little chappie,good to see he survived the party aftermath.soon be time for another party,my birthday party I shall be 2 on 3rd october..can you believe it?xx Speedy
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