Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my gerbil losing hair and getting scabs on its nose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Gerbil | Female | unspayed | 0.2 lbs

My gerbils lost hair on their noses about two weeks ago, then the skin peeled and healed over. Nothing else happened until yesterday. They started grooming more than usual and this morning, Ghost lost more fur and has what looks like a large scab on the top of her nose. I've tried helping them, assuming it was hairloss from the heat or a vitamin deficiency, but it seemed to get worse overnight. There are no other symptoms Is there anything i can do to help them heal or prevent it from worsening?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on August 9th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Ghost and including a photo. By the looks of the picture, a fungal dermatitis (ringworm) should be considered. This is contagious to other rodents and possibly humans. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. AS this is close to the eye, systemic anti-fungal medications are preferred as opposed to topicals that might get into the eye. Good luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored