What can I do about my gerbils runny nose?

Why is my gerbils hair fallig off her nose?

• I got two gerbils about 2 weeks ago. They're both girls, Charlie & Shane. Around a week ago, I've noticed that Charlie's hair has been falling off her nose & she's constantly itching it. She's a sandy color with a bit of gray in, can't be more than about 4 months old, & is a tad overweight- if that helps answer this at all? Anyway, does anyone know why Charlie's hair is falling out around her nose?

• Answer:

  There are two possibilities here. One which is far more likely is your bedding is too dusty. Try switching to a dust free bedding like Eco-bedding. (if you don't have the option of buying bedding, simply use plain copy paper and either shred it or rip it up) The dust is causing inflammation of the sinuses, and giving your gerbil the equivalent of a runny nose. They are constantly rubbing and touching their noses trying to clear it, so their nose gets rubbed raw and the fur comes off. Depending on the severity of the inflammation will depend if they need anti-biotics. if anything looks swollen, bleeds, or discolored take them to a vet. The second less likely cause is from chewing on the bars. If this is the problem the missing hair will line up exactly with the metal bars when they chew on them.