!Header Logo Right

Basic Gerbil Care

February 15, 2015

Gerbils are among the most popular pocket pets, and are often chosen as a child’s first pet. These little furballs are very sweet and gentle, and they are easy to care for, provided they have a proper diet and habitat. Below, your North Central San Antonio veterinarian offers some basic gerbil care tips.

Friends

Gerbils are very sociable little animals. A single gerbil will be lonely, and will feel sad and depressed without any buddies. Therefore, gerbils should be kept in same-sex pairs. You’ll need to be careful introducing new gerbils, and let them get to know each other slowly, as otherwise they will fight. If your gerbils are ever separated for over 24 hours, you’ll need to start over, as they won’t remember each other.

Toys

Gerbils need to chew to keep those little teeth from growing too long. Give your little pet lots of wood and cardboard to nibble! The empty tubes from paper towels or toilet paper rolls make excellent chew toys.

Feeding

You can give your pet a quality seed mix that is made specifically for gerbils. Look for a brand that has oats as the primary ingredient, and does not contain much corn. A mix that contains at least 18 percent protein and under 5 percent fat is best. Many rodent pellet mixes are also suitable. You can supplement your pet’s main menu with small amounts of fruits, veggies, cereal, and dairy products. Asparagus, carrots, celery, broccoli, and spinach are a few safe options. Remember to change your pet’s water daily!

Habitat

A wire or mesh cage, or a 10-gallon aquarium, is a good choice for gerbil habitats. These little furballs are excellent escape artists, so you’ll need to make sure that the tank is covered and secure. Place the cage in a spot that is not in direct sunlight, or in a drafty area. Next, you’ll need to add about three inches of substrate. Avoid using pine or cedar substrates, as well as anything with fibers, as these can be dangerous to gerbils. Your tiny pets will need a place to sleep quietly, so you’ll want to provide them with at least one hidey-hole. You can use a plant pot, a store-bought home, or even a small box.

Do you have any questions about gerbil care? Contact us any time! As your local North Central San Antonio vet clinic, we are always here to help!

  • All
  • Adoption
  • Behavior
  • Cat Care
  • Exotic Pet Care
  • Uncategorized

Degu Care 101

Are you considering adopting a degu? Native to Chile, these cute little furballs are becoming…
Read More

Cold Treats For Cats

Summers can be scorchers here in Texas, and it’s looking like this year may be…
Read More

Adopting A Shelter Pet

Did you know that April 30th is Adopt A Shelter Pet Day? We’re always happy…
Read More

Easter Kitty Care

Easter is next Sunday! We know many of you will be gathering with your loved…
Read More

Take A Walk In The Park Day 

March 30th is Take A Walk In The Park Day! This is one occasion our…
Read More

K9 Veterans Day

March 9th is a pretty important day for many of our canine companions: it’s National…
Read More

5 Ways to Ease Boarding Anxiety

Are you going to be leaving town soon? If so, you may be bringing your…
Read More

Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Did you know that February is National Cat Health Month? Fluffy’s health is always important,…
Read More

Tips On Bunny Bonding

Are you considering adopting Bunny #2? Rabbits can form very tight bonds with one another.…
Read More
1 2 3 18
North Star Animal Hospital