gerbil has scabs

Question
Hi.  My daughter has 2 gerbils and we just cleaned out their cage 2 days ago.  Today I noticed that they both have scabs on their shoulders, front legs, neck and face.  What could this be?  I didn't notice this when I cleaned their cage.  Thanks!

Answer
They may be fighting in which case they'll need to be separated.  Or, they may mites which would lead to intense scratching and scabbing over.  You can get rid of these at the vet by getting some ivermectin.  Keep an eye on them to make sure new symptoms don't develop.

Let me know if I can be of any more help,
Lauren