Barbering in Laboratory Rodents: Problems and Prospects.

Barbering is a behavior which involves the plucking or nibbling of fur, hair, or whiskers (vibrissae), leading to focal hair loss, and is often seen in laboratory mice and rats. The role of this behavior, including its relationship with stress, aggression, grooming, and aberrant stereotypic behavior, is actively discussed. Insights into the nature of barbering and its impact on laboratory rodents should be considered when planning experimental studies. Here, we discuss recent data on the neurobiology and genetics of barbering, as well as its role in the behavior and central nervous system of laboratory rodents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]