Gerbils are cute, sociable, and easy-to-care-for pets. They are ideal for people looking for low-maintenance, cuddly companions. Gerbils are native to areas like Mongolia, but they have become popular pets worldwide. If you are looking to welcome gerbils to your home, it’s essential to ensure that they have a comfortable, healthy habitat. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about gerbil habitat setup.
In this discussion, we will be exploring the topic of gerbil habitat setup. Gerbils are popular pets and creating a suitable habitat for them is essential. We will be discussing important factors to consider when setting up a gerbil habitat, such as size, bedding, toys, and food/water sources. By the end of this conversation, you will have gained a better understanding of how to create a comfortable and stimulating environment for your pet gerbil.
Understanding Gerbil Behavior and Needs
Before we dive into the specifics of gerbil habitat setup, it’s essential to understand gerbil behavior and needs. Gerbils are social animals and need to be kept in pairs or groups. They love to burrow and dig, so they need plenty of space to roam around. Gerbils are active creatures and need plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained. They are also clean animals and need a hygienic habitat to stay healthy.
Habitat Size
The size of your gerbil’s habitat is crucial. Gerbils need a lot of space to move around and play. The minimum recommended size for a pair of gerbils is 20 gallons. However, you should aim for a more substantial habitat if you have more than two gerbils. The general rule is to provide a minimum of 10 gallons of space per gerbil. It’s essential to ensure that the habitat is tall enough to allow for deep substrate bedding and tunnels.
Habitat Type
Gerbil habitats come in different types, such as glass aquariums, plastic bins, and wire cages. Glass aquariums are a popular choice for gerbil owners because they provide a clear view of the gerbils and offer excellent ventilation. However, they can be heavy and difficult to clean. Wire cages are lightweight and easy to clean, but they can be challenging to keep warm in colder climates. Plastic bins are affordable, easy to clean, and lightweight, but they don’t offer much ventilation.
Substrate Bedding
Substrate bedding is the material you use to line the floor of your gerbil’s habitat. It’s essential to choose a safe and absorbent substrate that your gerbils can burrow in. The best substrate bedding for gerbils is a mixture of paper-based bedding and natural bedding, such as aspen shavings. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can emit harmful chemicals.
Habitat Accessories
Gerbils love to play and explore, and they need plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained. Some popular habitat accessories for gerbils include:
- Exercise wheel
- Tunnels and hideouts
- Chew toys and blocks
- Climbing toys and ladders
- Sand baths
It’s essential to provide a variety of toys and activities to prevent boredom and promote exercise.
Setting up Your Gerbil Habitat
Now that you understand gerbil behavior and needs let’s dive into setting up your gerbil habitat.
Step 1: Choose Your Habitat Type
Choose the type of habitat that best suits your needs and budget. Glass aquariums are ideal for gerbils, but they can be heavy and challenging to clean. Wire cages are lightweight and easy to clean, but they can be challenging to keep warm in colder climates. Plastic bins are affordable, easy to clean, and lightweight, but they don’t offer much ventilation.
Step 2: Add Substrate Bedding
Once you have chosen your habitat type, add substrate bedding to the bottom of the habitat. The substrate should be at least 3 inches deep, allowing for deep burrowing and tunnels. The best substrate bedding for gerbils is a mixture of paper-based bedding and natural bedding, such as aspen shavings.
Step 3: Add Habitat Accessories
Add a variety of habitat accessories to keep your gerbils entertained and active. Some popular accessories include an exercise wheel, tunnels and hideouts, chew toys and blocks, climbing toys and ladders, and a sand bath.
Step 4: Provide Food and Water
Provide your gerbils with fresh food and water daily. Gerbils need a well-balanced diet that includes a mix of seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Ensure that the water bottle is cleaned regularly and that the water is fresh.
Step 5: Maintain a Hygienic Habitat
It’s essential to maintain a hygienic habitat to keep your gerbils healthy. Clean the habitat regularly, change the substrate bedding once a week, and remove any uneaten food. Keep the habitat away from direct sunlight and drafts, and ensure that the temperature is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
FAQs for Gerbil Habitat Setup
What size habitat do gerbils need?
Gerbils require a habitat that is at least 10 gallons in size, although larger is always better. The habitat should be a rectangular shape to allow for running and burrowing. Gerbils are active pets and require plenty of space to exercise and play.
What type of bedding is best for gerbils?
Gerbils require bedding that is safe for them to burrow and dig in. Suitable bedding options include aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, and hay-based bedding. Cedar and pine shavings should be avoided as they can cause respiratory problems for gerbils.
What should be in a gerbil’s habitat?
A gerbil’s habitat should contain the following: a water bottle, a food dish, a nesting box or shelter, plenty of toys and chew items, and a dust bath. Make sure that any toys or items in the habitat are safe for gerbils to play with and do not pose a choking hazard.
How often should a gerbil’s habitat be cleaned?
A gerbil’s habitat should be cleaned at least once a week. Remove any uneaten food or soiled bedding and replace with fresh materials. Deep cleaning the habitat every few months is also recommended to prevent any buildup of bacteria or germs.
Can gerbils live together in the same habitat?
Yes, gerbils can live together as long as they are the same sex and have been properly introduced to each other. Gerbils are social animals and thrive in pairs or small groups. It is important to provide plenty of hiding spots and separate food and water dishes to prevent fighting.