What to Think About Before Bringing Home a Gerbil

Gerbils as Companion Animals

For many households, a gerbil can make a wonderful pet. These rodents are known for being gentle, bright, and entertaining, and they often tolerate handling well—unlike some hamsters. Still, before deciding to get one, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

Nine Points to Keep in Mind Before You Buy a Gerbil

1. They can create a bit of a mess.
2. They require room to dig tunnels.
3. They have a strong urge to chew.
4. They should be kept in pairs.
5. They need regular opportunities to run and play.
6. They must be paired with others of the same sex.
7. If fighting occurs, they need to be separated.
8. It's important to purchase from a trustworthy source.
9. Their enclosure needs cleaning every week.

Make sure you consider all the pros and cons before buying a gerbil.

1. Gerbils May Create Some Disorder

Although gerbils are naturally tidy animals that enjoy digging, their burrowing can send sawdust flying out of the cage. This means you'll likely need to tidy up the floor and nearby areas regularly.

To reduce the mess, an aquarium-style tank can be a good option. It prevents the gerbils from scattering sawdust through wire bars, keeping the surrounding area much cleaner.

Another solution is to create a barrier or cover for the sides of a wire cage. Messiness is really the only downside when it comes to cleanliness with gerbils, and it's easily managed. It shouldn't discourage you from getting one.

2. Gerbils Need Ample Room to Dig and Burrow

Digging is a natural instinct for gerbils—it's part of their makeup. So it's essential to give them a habitat where they can burrow freely. Provide a deep layer of sawdust and include items like brown cardboard tubes or other safe toys.

Without enough to do, they can become bored and sluggish. Make sure the cage has enough depth for burrowing, and don't be stingy with the wood shavings.

You could also add safe pipes or tunnels for them to hide in. Gerbils enjoy dark, enclosed spaces.

3. Gerbils Have a Need to Chew

Chewing is necessary for gerbils to keep their teeth from growing too long and to prevent dental problems. When you get a gerbil, look for chew toys that can be placed in the cage to help maintain their dental health. These items are available at good pet shops and online.

4. Gerbils Should Be Kept in Pairs

Gerbils are social creatures that need companionship, so it's best to buy them in pairs. Never get just one—it will become lonely, depressed, and inactive. The importance of providing a gerbil with a companion cannot be stressed enough.

5. Gerbils Require Lots of Exercise

Gerbils are active and need more than just their cage for physical activity. You should handle them daily and give them time to run around.

Exercise balls designed for gerbils are a great way to let them run indoors. If space is limited, you can find exercise balls that come with a stand.

You might also consider building a gerbil run, but ensure the sides are tall enough to prevent escapes—gerbils are skilled climbers.

6. Choose Same-Sex Pairs When Buying Gerbils

Unless you want to deal with lots of baby gerbils (called pups), it's best to buy same-sex pairs. If you have more than two, keep the sexes separate—but never house a gerbil alone.

7. If Gerbils Fight, Separate Them

Play fighting is common and looks like boxing—this is normal. However, if they start fighting seriously (scratching, biting, etc.), they must be separated, as they could seriously injure or even kill each other.

8. Buy from a Reputable Seller

Always purchase gerbils from a trustworthy source, such as a verified pet store or breeder. Read reviews and ensure the animals are healthy and free from illness or disease.

9. Clean the Cage Weekly

Since gerbils burrow, their waste can be hard to spot. That's why it's important to clean the cage every week. Don't assume it's clean just because you can't see or smell anything—droppings often end up at the bottom of the cage or gerbilarium.

Rodent Comparison

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No

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No

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Yes

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Hamster

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Yes

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Yes

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No

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Rat

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No

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No

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Yes

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This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Questions & Answers

Question: Should I get two boy or girl gerbils?

Answer: Males are often the more docile sex. We bought males.

© 2017 Ritchie Hicks