Glass aquariums, terrariums, wire cages, and plastic cages are all great options for your gerbil’s cage. Purchase accessories for the cage that will allow your gerbils to chew, hide, and indulge their curiosity. [1] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Gerbils are clean animals, you’ll need to keep a tidy and hygienic cage to make sure your pet stays happy and healthy. [2] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
A fully grown gerbil is typically 4. 72 inches (12 cm) tall. Change out the bedding on a monthly or biweekly basis!
Since gerbils originally lived in deserts before they were domesticated, you might not see them guzzle their water!
Get gerbils that are more than 5 weeks old to help make sure that they’ve had enough time with their mother so they aren’t stressed or nervous. If possible, buy your gerbils from a reputable breeder. You’re more likely to find gerbils that don’t have any deformities from inbreeding. [6] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Check to make sure your gerbils are healthy. Their coats should be full and glossy, their eyes bright and shiny, their noses clean, and their teeth straight. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source If you notice any problems, ask the breeder about the gerbil or decide on another gerbil that looks like it’s in better shape.
Gerbils are naturally shy but can bond well with their human family over time. Plus, they don’t like to be left alone or isolated, so they’ll eventually really like your company. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Gerbils are also very active. If you have 2 gerbils, they’ll likely play with each other all day. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Since gerbils can be very territorial, be careful introducing a new gerbil to an already existing gerbil community and see how they all interact with each other. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Gerbils rarely bite and typically only show this kind of aggression if they’re scared. [11] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Wait at least 3 days for your gerbil to adapt to their new home before you handle them. Otherwise, they’ll probably be too stressed to tame.
Make sure your gerbil knows you’re around before you put your hand in the cage so that you don’t startle your animal. [15] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source If you put a few seeds in your hand when you place it in the cage, your gerbil may approach you more quickly. [16] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Remember to remain calm as gerbils can smell adrenaline in your sweat. [17] X Research source
Scoop up your gerbil with both hands to carry them in a non-threatening way. You can even put some seeds in your hands to help your gerbil settle down. [19] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source When you pick up your gerbil, it may help to turn away from their tank or cage. This way, they won’t keep thinking about the safe environment that they’re used to hanging out in—instead, they’ll focus more on you! Some gerbils don’t like to be held. If that’s the case, just feed these gerbils and give them toys to let them know you’re there to take care of them. [20] X Research source
When developing your training plan, think about your gerbil’s unique attitude. For example, some gerbils will naturally jump onto your arm, while others may take time to get used to you. [22] X Research source Since training is something you need to do regularly and over time, set short-term and long-term goals. You can develop your plan by setting daily, weekly, and monthly intentions or goals for your gerbil.
Gerbils of any age respond well to taming. [23] X Research source If your gerbil is older, don’t be discouraged if they take longer to tame. Just work with them as soon as they join your family. It may take a little more patience, but eventually, your gerbil will adapt to your training. [24] X Research source To stay motivated, remember that gerbils are intelligent and loyal companions. Proper communication and encouraging the right behaviors will help you train your gerbil at any age. [25] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
It’s important to socialize your gerbil ASAP so they don’t become nervous by having people around them or act out with aggression when they see strangers. [26] X Research source Help your gerbil be comfortable around people by exposing them to positive and calm situations with warm and friendly people. [27] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Tell any new people to allow your gerbil to sniff them first so the animal is less likely to feel threatened. [28] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Take your gerbil out of its cage and let them explore so they can get to know everyone in your house. [29] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Positive reinforcement trains your gerbil by rewarding the actions you want it to repeat, such as jumping into your hands or playing a game with you. When you play with gerbils, come up with entertaining little games that get them used to humans. Even something as simple as running on your lap can be fun and instructive for a gerbil![32] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Reward your gerbil for good behavior or clever actions with treats like seeds or fruit. [33] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
