Gerbils - a suitable environment
This section contains information about the things your gerbils need in order to have a safe and comfortable living environment.
A safe and comfortable home
What type of cage is best for gerbils?
Gerbils are naturally burrowing animals that originate from deserts, so this needs to be considered when providing them with a home. The best type of home for gerbils is a ‘gerbilarium’. This is usually a large tank filled with burrowing material (such as potting compost), with a wire caged area above it. A gerbilarium can be bought from a good pet shop or pet supermarket.
How big should a gerbilarium be?
The gerbilarium should be as large as possible, so that the gerbils can get enough exercise. Gerbils stand on their hind limbs a lot, so it’s important that their home is tall enough to allow this.
Where should I put the gerbilarium?
The gerbilarium should be kept indoors, out of draughts and direct sunlight, and away from busy or noisy areas (such as near a TV or music system) as this is stressful for the animals.
Adult gerbils should be kept in an environment between 20° and 22°C.
What type of material should I use on the floor of the gerbilarium?
The burrowing material put in the base of the gerbilarium should allow the gerbils to create tunnels, so potting compost is more appropriate than woodshavings. The tank part of the gerbilarium should be nearly filled with potting compost to allow plenty of digging and tunnel-making.
Do my gerbils need a nest box?
Yes. Gerbils need a quiet and secluded nest box where they will sleep during the day.
What type of bedding should I give my gerbils?
Gerbils need suitable bedding that they can use to build a nest. Bedding sold for small pets or shredded white kitchen roll are both suitable, but newspaper or cotton wool shouldn’t be used. Newspaper ink can be toxic and cotton wool can cause dangerous blockages if eaten.
How often do I need to clean the gerbilarium?
You should clean the gerbilarium out every two to three weeks, or more frequently if it is becoming soiled. Every three months do a thorough clean, wash the gerbilarium well and replace all the burrowing and nesting materials.
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