Fur loss in gerbils can suggest a more serious infection in some cases. Fleas and mites can cause a gerbil to scratch fur off, while diseases such as Tyzzer's Disease lead to fur loss and serious illness. It is best to take your gerbil to the vet if he begins to lose fur.

Alopecia

Alopecia is observed as partial or full loss of hair in areas where hair usually grows. This is common in gerbils and can be corrected. Symptoms are depression, weight loss, scaling of the skin, skin inflammation and red, itchy skin.

Other Causes

The causes of hair loss in gerbils are numerous. Some causes are constant rubbing against the metal cage, excessive burrowing, cage crowding, fighting wounds and hair chewing by cage mates. Ticks, mites and vitamin or nutritional deficiencies also cause hair loss.

Tyzzer's Disease

Gerbils are susceptible to Tyzzer's Disease. Tyzzer's Disease can be fatal in gerbils. Symptoms include diarrhea, having a humped back, poor coat, hair loss and sudden death.

Mites

If you suspect your gerbil may have mites, take him to the vet as soon as possible. Continuous itching can lead to fur loss. If bird mites are found on the gerbil, special caution should be taken. Bird mites can suck huge amounts of the blood out of a gerbil, causing the immune system to weaken and causing a fatality if not treated soon enough. Scratching areas on the skin where the mites are can lead to fur loss.

Fleas

Gerbils can catch dog and cat fleas. Constant scratching can cause fur loss. Your vet can suggest the best way to treat the fleas. It will be necessary to sanitize the gerbil's sleeping area and toys. Vacuuming can help to suck up some of the fleas and eggs, stopping the spread of fleas.

Source:

PetMD

Dog Breed Info Center

Gerbil Site