Buying Gerbils and all that is involved

Buying Gerbils and all that is involved

Congratulations on your decision to bring gerbils into your home! Gerbils are social and active rodents that can make delightful pets. To ensure they have a happy and healthy living environment, consider the following guidelines:

Gerbil Cage:

1. Size:

   • Opt for a spacious cage. A minimum of 10 gallons per gerbil is recommended, but larger is better. A 20-gallon long aquarium or a multi-level wire cage with platforms is suitable.

2. Ventilation:

   • Choose a cage with good ventilation to prevent ammonia buildup. Wire cages provide better airflow compared to aquariums.

3. Escape-Proof:

   • Ensure that the cage is escape-proof. Gerbils are excellent diggers and chewers, so the cage should have secure bars and a solid bottom.

4. Platforms and Levels:

   • If using a multi-level cage, provide platforms and levels for climbing and exploration. Ensure there are no sharp edges that could cause injury.

5. Substrate:

   • Use a substrate for burrowing. Aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or a mix of both are suitable choices. Avoid cedar or pine bedding as they can be harmful to gerbils.

6. Hideouts:

   • Include hiding spots or small houses for your gerbils to retreat to when they want privacy or feel stressed.

7. Wheel:

   • Provide a solid exercise wheel, ideally with a diameter of at least 8 inches. Gerbils love to run, and a wheel helps them expend energy.

8. Toys and Enrichment:

   • Offer a variety of toys for mental stimulation. Items like tunnels, cardboard boxes, and chew toys are great additions.

Gerbil Diet and Nutrition:

1. Pelleted Food:

   • Provide a high-quality gerbil pelleted food as the main diet. Avoid seed mixes, as gerbils tend to pick out their favorite seeds, leading to an unbalanced diet.

2. Fresh Vegetables and Fruits:

   • Supplement their diet with small amounts of fresh vegetables and fruits. Some suitable options include carrots, broccoli, and apple slices.

3. Clean Water:

   • Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times. Use a water bottle with a sipper tube to prevent spills.

Health and Wellness:

1. Regular Vet Check-ups:

   • Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your gerbils' health and address any potential issues.

2. Hygiene:

   • Clean the cage regularly, removing soiled bedding and any uneaten food. Perform a more thorough cleaning at least once a month.

3. Handling:

   • Spend time handling and interacting with your gerbils daily to build trust and strengthen the bond.

4. Companionship:

   • Gerbils are social animals and thrive in pairs or groups. Consider getting two gerbils of the same sex to prevent breeding.

5. Avoid Stress:

   • Keep the cage in a quiet area away from loud noises and direct sunlight. Gerbils are sensitive to stress, so minimizing disturbances is important.

Gerbil Behavior:

1. Burrowing Instinct:

   • Foster their natural burrowing instincts by providing deep bedding. This allows them to dig and create tunnels.

2. Chewing:

   • Supply appropriate chew toys to satisfy their chewing instincts and keep their teeth healthy.

By providing a suitable cage, a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and opportunities for mental and physical stimulation, you'll be on your way to ensuring a happy and healthy life for your gerbils. Enjoy your time with these charming little rodents!