Gerbils are adorable small rodents with expressive behaviors that can bring a lot of joy to people. If you’re considering keeping gerbils as pets, understanding some basic knowledge, such as their characteristics, lifespan, and care methods, is crucial. Among these, the placement of the gerbil cage is paramount. This article will provide you with some references and suggestions on where to put your gerbil’s cage.
Are Gerbils Suitable as Pets?
There are over 90 species of gerbils, but the most common pet gerbil is the Mongolian gerbil. With a body length of about 10 centimeters and a tail length of approximately 5 centimeters, they come in various colors such as black, white, brown, and gray. Gerbils are lively and enjoy socializing, making them fascinating if provided with an appropriate environment. They engage in activities like digging, storing food, playing, sleeping, and occasionally vocalize to express their emotions.
While gerbils can be rewarding pets for older children, adults should supervise their care. Gerbils prefer staying grounded rather than being picked up, and they may not get along well with other pets like cats or dogs, as they might perceive them as threats. Gerbils also require time and patience for taming, establishing trust, and building a bond.
What Is the Expected Lifespan of Gerbils?
Gerbils have an expected lifespan of 3-4 years, with some living even longer. Various factors, including genetics, diet, environment, and health, influence their lifespan. To ensure your gerbil lives a longer and healthier life, consider the following:
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Choose healthy gerbils, examining their body size, fur color, eyes, nose, teeth, etc., to ensure they are free from injuries or parasites.
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Provide appropriate food, mainly gerbil pellets or a mix, with occasional additions of fresh fruits, vegetables, and hay. Avoid sugary or high-water-content foods like grapes or bananas, as they may lead to diarrhea or obesity.
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Supply clean water using a water bottle rather than a dish, as bowls can easily become soiled or overturned. Regularly clean and replace the water bottle to prevent bacterial growth.
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Create a comfortable environment with sufficient space in the gerbil cage for free movement and digging. Place the cage in a well-ventilated, temperature-appropriate, moderately lit, and quiet area, avoiding direct sunlight, heat sources, or drafts. Use suitable bedding, such as wood shavings, paper bedding, or cotton, avoiding scented or chemically treated materials that may irritate their respiratory system or skin. Include toys like tunnels, nests, and a sand bath for the gerbils’ amusement and cleanliness. Regularly clean the cage, removing leftover food and waste to maintain cleanliness.
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Provide social interaction, as gerbils are highly social creatures and should not be kept alone. If raising same-sex siblings, they can coexist harmoniously. Adult gerbils over 10 weeks old may exhibit aggression towards newcomers, so it’s advisable not to mix them. If you plan to keep two or more gerbils, raise them together from a young age or keep them separated in different cages while allowing visual and olfactory contact to foster closeness. Regularly interact with your gerbils using gentle tones and actions to make them accustomed to your presence and gradually build trust and friendship.
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Offer prompt medical attention, as gerbils may suffer from common illnesses such as colds, diarrhea, skin problems, or dental issues. If you notice any abnormal symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, weight loss, dull fur, swollen eyes, or skin damage, take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Consider purchasing pet insurance to alleviate the burden of medical expenses.
Where Should Gerbil Cages Be Placed?
The gerbil cage serves as their home and activity space. So, where should you place the gerbil cage? It depends on your home’s space and conditions, but consider the following principles:
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Choose a relatively quiet area in your home, avoiding direct sunlight. Gerbils are nocturnal, requiring rest during the day, so avoid placing the cage in noisy or overly bright areas like the living room or balcony. Opt for quieter spaces like a study, hallway, or storage room, ensuring adequate natural light to maintain their normal circadian rhythm.
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Avoid proximity to high-frequency noise sources such as television or water pipes.
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Gerbils have keen hearing, detecting sounds beyond human perception that may make them uneasy or fearful. Use soft materials like blankets or towels to dampen noise and create a comfortable and safe environment.
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Keep the cage out of the bedroom to prevent disturbances during gerbils’ nighttime activities. Gerbils are active at night, running around, chewing on food, and making squeaky noises, which might affect your sleep quality. If you’re a light sleeper, place the gerbil cage in a more distant location or use tools like earplugs to mitigate noise.
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Choose a place with stable temperatures, avoiding heat sources and vents. Gerbils are sensitive to temperature changes, with an ideal range between 18-24 degrees Celsius. Refrain from placing the cage near heaters, air conditioners, windows with temperature variations, or below vents, as this could make gerbils feel cold or dry. Use a thermometer to monitor the cage temperature and adjust the position or use barriers if it deviates from the ideal range.
