Degu lethargic, breathing quickly

[s]

Hello! I'm currently at the vet for my sick degu who is breathing quickly and not moving much. It's very unusual as he's usually really energetic and healthy (3yo).

The vet says there's not much we can do without running tests which might be dangerous for him because he's so small. He may have pneumonia, but this came on very suddenly and our apartment is very warm so that seems unlikely to me? We're planning to take him home and see what happens and maybe get tests as a last resort tomorrow if he doesn't improve.

Anyway, I'm wondering what we could do for him in the meantime? What might help him recover??

Thank you for your help!!

[s]

Hello again all.

Unfortunately De-kun really suddenly passed away - probably of pneumonia. He was fine until just a few hours ago so we're glad he didn't have to suffer. He was also at home and died in my arms - even had a weird final burst of life and decided to have a run?

Anyway, he was such a good boy and had such a fun, spoiled life. He had a great last day, with running, snacks and attention. He was such a gift and I'll remember him always.

Thank you for your help!

[bouncy]

I'm sorry I didn't see your post earlier, but I was also at the vet!

It may sound a bit horrible, but I'm glad he didn't suffer much. Not nice for you, though

It's difficult to say what caused this. It certainly could have been pneumonia. The thing to remember about infections is that it's not necessarily bad environment or climate that causes them. It's simply an infection that they were unable to fight themselves. My father contracted pneumonia (the only patient to do so) in a warm and cosy home. What's important is that your little goo was well cared for, loved, and you took her straight to the vet when you knew they needed help.

[moletteuk]

Sometimes an infection comes on really fast and there is nothing much that can be done. The final burst of energy is a recognised phenomenon, it even happens in humans. I'm sorry for your loss, rest easy De-Kun.