My gerbil has a smelly, black eye lesion. What is it? Can kids play?

Gerbils may develop tumors associated with the scent gland. Without an exam, diagnosis is difficult. You can monitor it for rapid change or growth and then have him examined or you can have him in by your veterinarian sooner. A fine needle aspirate can be done to collect samples for pathology. This may provide a diagnosis. Once the lump is identified, you can discuss removal with your veterinarian.

Thanks for reaching out about Gerald and including photos. Squinty eyes can be due to infections or inflammation of the eyes, or even congenital problems. A veterinary visit can assist with the first two. Maintain good nutrition and husbandry. Discontinue any dust baths, if offered. Any chance of an aerosol spray into the eyes. Good luck.

I would be concerned about then possibility of an abdominal tumor or fluid accumulation in the abdomen. However, fluid accumulation does not have a good prognosis either. I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. If there is a large tumor they may be able to feel it and help guide you with quality of life decisions. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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.

He should be examined by your veterinarian. If he has "wet tail" (proliferative ileitis), he will need treatment and supportive care. Keep his cage clean. Change bedding daily if necessary. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible. Discontinue feeding any treats, fruits or vegetables until he recovers.

I am sorry to hear about Peanut. The most common cause of a sore on the nose in a gerbil is a condition called "sore nose" or "nasal dermatitis" and can be related to stress, high humidity levels in the cage, or trauma due to excessive burrowing or injury on cage. I would recommend bringing Peanut to a vet to confirm this is what is affecting Peanut. If the case is mild, they may prescribe a topical antibiotic creme or ointment to apply. In severe cases, oral or injectable antibiotics may be necessary. You can read more about this condition at: https://www.petcoach.co/article/nasal-dermatitis-sore-nose-of-gerbils/ Best of luck to you and Peanut!

This is likely just a pigment change and no big deal but of course, without seeing it I cannot say for sure. If any of the areas look like growths, scabs, scales, flakey or in any way abnormal besides the color change, then I would have your vet take a look. Your vet will be able to ensure there isn't any type of bacterial or fungal infection that needs to be addressed. Keep a close eye on her.