Gerbils

Gerbils are native to the Mongolian Desert Steppes in Asia. Family groups live in burrows in the loamy soil. During Summer months they eat green plant materials and gather seeds and grain that are stored in the burrows for use during the Winter months. Since they are native to an arid habitat, they drink very little water and gain what moisture they require from the food.

Diet

A typical Gerbil mix contains Sunflower seed, milo, millet, peanuts and pelleted and extruded grain products. They require a slightly higher protein diet than Hamsters and may be subject to vitamin deficiencies. Supplementing their diet with a daily multi-vitamin in their food is recommended

Occasionally small quantities of fresh vegetables and greens like romaine lettuce should be offered.

Even though they don't drink much fresh water should always be available in a drinking tube or water bottle.

Housing

Gerbils are kept in cages, aquariums with wire screen tops, and plastic molded habitat modules. Cages are not commonly used any more because the Gerbils' burrowing habits scatter their bedding through the wires and out of the cage.

Aquariums with wire screen tops are much more commonly used. These are difficult for the Gerbils to escape from, keep the bedding in place, and are easy to clean. A deep layer of bedding material should cover the bottom of the  aquarium.

The molded plastic modular habitats are popular with children. They have the same advantages as the aquarium. The draw back to these is that the plastic can be chewed through by an ambitious Gerbil. The plastic sometimes becomes cloudy over time.

In any event an exercise wheel and a hiding space or two should be provided. Paper towel tubes make great inexpensive hiding places.

Handling & Care

Gerbils are curious social animals. They do well when kept in pairs that have been raised together. The pair doesn't necessarily have to be a mated pair, as two males get along well together, as do two females.

Gerbils are easy to handle. Simply place your hand flat, palm up on the bottom of the aquarium, and gently scoop the gerbil into the palm of your hand. Gently grasp the base of the tail between thumb and forefinger. Never pick the animal up by the end of the tail, as the skin can tear and peel off exposing the underlying tissue and bone.

Traditionally pine shavings have been used as bedding material for these animals, but recent studies indicate that the phenols in pine that cause their aroma,  also can lead to health problems in animals that have direct exposure over an extended period of time. Aspen bedding is a much better and safer choice. Never use cedar shavings forGerbils, as the phenols are very strong and cause serious respiratory, skin, coat and liver problems.