Gerbils

Gerbils are a popular pet. They are lively, active animals that love to chew and   burrow and make excellent pets.

Housing

Gerbils are sociable animals so it is best to keep them in pairs. Either two males or two females. Gerbils that are kept in groups of three or more are more likely to fight. A pair from the same litter or that have been kept together from a young age is best as they are less likely to fight.

It is best to keep your gerbil in a glass aquarium filled with woodshavings as they love to dig and burrow. Your aquarium should have a good lid. Solid lids with holes in them may cause condesation to build up in the tank so a lid made of wire mesh is better. An aquarium without a lid is a bad idea as gerbils can jump an will almost certainly escape. They can also be kept in a hamster cage but its a good idea to remove the wheel incase they get their tales caught in it. The bottom of the cage should be lined with woodshavings. Always buy woodshavings from the pet shop. Plastic habitrail homes are not as suitable because your gerbil will probably chew and gnaw them. Cages should be cleaned once a week.

Feeding

You gerbil can be fed with a gerbil mix, this will provide your gerbil with all the vitamins and minerals he needs. Your gerbil will also enjoy some fruit and veg added to thier diet. Aways introduce fruit and veg to your gerbil gradually as too much may give your gerbil diarriah and only give as much as they will eat as fresh food will soon become mouldy. Any uneaten food should be discarded daily. A mineral stone is also good and will help keep their teeth short. A good sturdy food bowl is also needed a ceramic one is better as plastic ones may be tipped over and chewed.  Your gerbil will also need a fresh supply of water so you will need a water bottle.

There are also loads of toys and treats available at pet shops which your gerbil will enjoy.

Handling

Leave your new pet a couple of days to get used to their surroundings before you begin to handle him. Start by talking to him and put your hand in the cage to get him used to your smell when you are ready to pick up your gerbil make a cup with your hand and slowly and gently scoop   him up.

If you handle your gerbil everyday they will soon become tame.