Gerbils are small, active rodents from desert and semi-desert regions of Africa and Asia. Known for their curious nature and social interactions, they make engaging companions. Typically weighing 2 to 4 ounces and reaching 4 to 5 inches in length excluding their tail, their activity and exploration make them a lively addition.
Understanding Gerbil Behavior and Social Needs
Gerbils are social animals, thriving when kept in pairs or small, same-sex groups. Introducing them at a young age helps foster harmonious relationships and prevents territorial disputes. Housing gerbils alone can lead to loneliness and poor well-being.
Gerbils exhibit natural behaviors like extensive burrowing and tunneling, mirroring their wild counterparts’ underground networks. They also display hoarding tendencies, storing food. Gerbils are crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk hours, with bursts of energy.
Communication among gerbils involves various methods. They use foot thumping to signal alarm or excitement. Scent marking, via an abdominal gland, helps them establish territory and identify group members. Gerbils also employ vocalizations, including chirps and squeaks.
Creating the Ideal Gerbil Habitat
A proper living environment is important for a gerbil’s health and happiness. Glass tanks or aquariums are highly recommended as enclosures, offering secure, deep space wire cages cannot. A minimum 20-gallon tank is suggested for a pair of gerbils; larger is always beneficial for activity. Wire cages are unsuitable as gerbils are burrowers and can injure their noses and teeth attempting to dig through the wire; plastic habitats can also be chewed through.
The depth of the bedding is important, allowing gerbils to burrow and tunnel. Providing at least 6 to 8 inches of suitable bedding, such as aspen shavings or paper-based material, is needed for constructing underground systems. This deep substrate also helps absorb the minimal urine gerbils produce, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Habitat enrichment promotes physical activity and mental stimulation. A solid-surface exercise wheel, unlike wire wheels that cause injury, allows them to run safely. Chew toys made from untreated wood or cardboard are important for maintaining dental health, as gerbils’ teeth grow continuously. Ceramic hideouts offer secure resting and sleeping spots, while a separate dish for a sand bath allows them to clean their fur naturally, mimicking desert behaviors.
Proper Gerbil Nutrition
A balanced diet is important for a gerbil’s long-term health. The primary component of their diet should be a high-quality commercial gerbil or hamster pellet mix for comprehensive nutrition. Avoid muesli-style mixes, as gerbils often pick out only the high-fat, sugary components, leading to an unbalanced diet.
While pellets form the dietary foundation, fresh foods can supplement their meals in small quantities. Vegetables like carrots and broccoli florets can be offered in moderation. Small fruit pieces like apple or banana can also be given as occasional treats. Introduce new fresh foods gradually and in very small amounts to prevent digestive upset.
Conversely, several foods should be avoided due to toxicity or unhealthy composition. Sugary treats, chocolate, and caffeine are harmful and can cause serious health issues. Certain nuts, while not entirely toxic, are high in fat and should only be given very sparingly. A constant supply of fresh water is also important, typically provided via a sipper bottle for hygiene and to prevent spills.
Gerbil Health and Common Concerns
Recognizing signs of a healthy gerbil helps identify potential health issues. A healthy gerbil typically has clear, bright eyes, is active, alert, and maintains a good appetite. Their fur should appear smooth and well-kept, and their nose should be clean without any discharge.
Despite their robust nature, gerbils can experience health concerns. Scent gland tumors are common, particularly in older males, appearing as abdominal bumps. Respiratory infections, characterized by wheezing, clicking sounds when breathing, or nasal discharge, can be serious, requiring prompt veterinary attention. Dental problems, such as malocclusion (overgrown teeth), can arise if gerbils do not have enough items to chew, affecting eating.
Another common issue is “sore nose” or nasal dermatitis, often caused by irritation from certain bedding (like pine or cedar shavings) or rubbing their nose against cage bars. Proper handling minimizes stress; always scoop them gently rather than picking them up by the tail, which can cause injury. Gerbils generally live for two to four years. If health concerns arise, seek care from a veterinarian experienced with rodents.