Nails being pulled out while playing

[Juliemmons]

Both of my male squirrels (1 is about a year and a half and one is 5 months) have pulled a nail out in the last 2 weeks while playing on the ropes in their cages.

Is this normal? I've heard that ropes are safe for squirrels to play on but now I'm worried since they have both been hurt.

What is better alternative to ropes for them to climb in their cage?

What should I be doing about their injured finger?

[Spanky]

This is definitely not normal.

Nail issues are seen with MBD, they weaken and split which results in them catching a lot in fabrics and such. But I have not heard anyone report their MBD squirrel pulling their entire nail out. Are you confident in their diet and preventing MBD?

I'd remove the rope if you suspect that is the cause, but I would also carefully inspect the cage for "pinch points" " which may be the culprit. Branches are always a hit.