What causes red nose in gerbils?
In gerbils, in times of stress, the unbound porphyrin can leave deposits in the tear ducts, causing red colored stains around the eyes and nose as the tinted tear fluid leaves the eyes.
Why does my gerbil have a bald spot?
Gerbils may lose patches of hair on many parts of their body. Meanwhile, hair loss in the tail and hindquarter areas can result from cage overcrowding, fighting wounds, and hair chewing by cage mates. Hair loss may also be due to nutritional reasons like vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Why does my gerbil have a runny nose?
Allergic reactions are a common cause of illness in a gerbil. Usually, an allergic reaction is marked by a runny nose. A gerbil may also lose hair around its nose due to rubbing it vigorously. Try switching your gerbil’s bedding if it appears to be having an allergic reaction. Cedar pine bedding can be particularly irritating for gerbils.
How can you tell if a gerbil has an allergic reaction?
If your gerbil is having an allergic reaction, you may have to change the bedding in your cage. Keep in mind that a gerbil’s mucus is red. Therefore, a runny nose can be mistaken for a bleeding nose. If your gerbil appears to have a reddish nose, its nose is likely running and it may need treatment for an allergic reaction or respiratory issue.
Can a gerbil get rid of a tumour on its nose?
Another problem that can occur is bacterial infection – if the gerbil tries to get rid of the tumour itself then it will scratch and bite the area, leaving the tumour susceptible to infection. If you think that your pet has a scent gland tumour, it’s best to get it treated by a vet as soon as possible.
Why are my gerbil’s eyes red and puffy?
If your gerbils’ eyes are swollen, puffy, red or runny, then they could be suffering from an eye infection. This could be due to your pet having something stuck in its eye such as a piece of hay.
Another problem that can occur is bacterial infection – if the gerbil tries to get rid of the tumour itself then it will scratch and bite the area, leaving the tumour susceptible to infection. If you think that your pet has a scent gland tumour, it’s best to get it treated by a vet as soon as possible.
Can a gerbil get a cold like a human?
Like humans, gerbils may occasionally catch a cold. Symptoms are very like ours, often with sneezing, runny noses and wheezing. Colds are capable of developing into more serious illnesses, so it’s best to avoid handling your pets whilst you are unwell. Gerbils, though desert animals, need constant access to water whilst being kept in captivity.
Why does my gerbil have a respiratory infection?
Respiratory infections can be caused by a number of factors, from high humidity to the wrong types of bedding (many wood shavings can cause this – never give your pets pine or cedar). It’s wise to be on the lookout for symptoms of this condition so that you can take your pet to the vet promptly.
If your gerbils’ eyes are swollen, puffy, red or runny, then they could be suffering from an eye infection. This could be due to your pet having something stuck in its eye such as a piece of hay.
