Gerbils with Balled nose

Question
Hi

The condition developed on the adult gerbil after she was a year old, so it can't be a genetic condition.  She is clearly struggling to breath, her nose is red and sore, and some of the fur around it has fallen off.  She sleeps more than her cagemates and her body is warmer to the touch.  The seven week old baby is having the same issues.  She makes a noise when she breathes and is clearly uncomfortable.  On the older gerbil, there is also a blood-like substance coming out of her nose.  Thanks,

Monica
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi

I have two gerbils with this condition.  One is an adult, the other a baby of about 7 weeks of age.  I have tried meds the vet suggested, but the situation has not improved.  The bedding is Carefresh, so I know it's not that.  Got any suggestions?  Thanks!
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question, what does the skin look like? is it pink and normal? If so it could just be a genetic defect and there's really nothing you can do. Some animals will just have a bald spot on some of their areas and it passes on to the children. I really wouldn't worry about it.

Answer
Okay, thanks for giving me more info. It sounds like your gerbil has Nasal Dermatitis. The first signs of nasal dermatitis are a loss of hair and the formation of crusts on the nose, near the nostrils. The lesions may spread to the rest of the face, paws, and even the abdomen. The lesions may begin to look moist and ooze. It's a fairly common disease in gerbils and treatment is sometimes given by oral antibiotics or topical medication. Here are two links that can give you more information on the illness. Also, stress such as the loss of a friend, small cages, being weaned from mother or having high humidity can cause the illness.

http://www.radil.missouri.edu/info/dora/gerbilpa/Bac.htm

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=18&cat=1799&articleid=2463