Alot of people refer to the Head Scent Gland as "The Bald spot", it is not really a "bald
spot", they actually do have a full head of hair,errr um, fur.
The scent gland that is
present on the top of the head produces an oily substance that slicks down a little
patch of hair where the scent gland is, creating that handsome balding look. Some males have huge 'bald spots' on the head,
others have small ones. ;-)
The Male Head Scent Gland, one of a few scent glands, develops during puberty.
They
will rub their head all over whatever they think should belong to them. :-) (marking)
So
if you get "rubbed", its a good thing! The Head Scent Gland (as well as the Chest Scent
Gland) will
disappear and be hardly/not noticeable at all after a male Glider gets neutered.
(Neutering also cuts down on the smell- Males do tend to be a little smellier than the females.)
* Sometimes the Head may appear to get a little
crusty or yucky from the buildup of oils the scent gland secretes. (especially during 'hormonal' times ;-)
If this should happen, you can take a soft clean cloth or Q-tip and
dip it in warm water and gently clean the buildup from the scent gland.
If the scent gland appears irritated, really red, or just doesnt 'look right',
or there is hair loss/balding on any parts of the body, an experienced Vet should take a look.
Click on a photo to enlarge...
Head Scent Gland (intact male & neutered male)
Click on photo to enlarge...
Head Scent Gland in action...
