Gerbil Housing and Cage Setup: Creating the Perfect Home for Your Pet Gerbils

Gerbils are active and social creatures that require a well-thought-out habitat to thrive. Proper housing and cage setup are essential for their physical and mental well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about setting up the ideal environment for your gerbils, including cage types, bedding, accessories, and maintenance.

Choosing the Right Cage

Selecting the appropriate cage is the first step in providing a safe and comfortable home for your gerbils. There are a few options to consider, each with its advantages and disadvantages:

Glass Aquariums

Glass aquariums are a popular choice for gerbil housing due to their durability and escape-proof nature. They provide excellent visibility, allowing you to observe your gerbils’ activities easily. When choosing a glass aquarium, consider the following:

• Size: The minimum recommended size for a pair of gerbils is a 20-gallon tank. However, larger tanks are always better, as they offer more space for exploration and enrichment.
• Lid: Ensure the aquarium has a secure, well-ventilated lid made of wire mesh to prevent escapes and provide adequate airflow.

Wire Cages

Wire cages with solid bases are another option for gerbil housing. They offer good ventilation and can be easier to clean than glass tanks. When selecting a wire cage, keep these points in mind:

• Bar Spacing: The bars should be close enough together (no more than 1/4 inch apart) to prevent gerbils from squeezing through or getting stuck.
• Base: The base should be solid to prevent injuries from wire floors. A deep plastic tray can hold bedding and accommodate burrowing behavior.

DIY Habitats

For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, creating a DIY gerbil habitat can be a rewarding project. Using materials like plastic storage bins or custom-built wooden enclosures, you can design a habitat tailored to your gerbils’ needs. Ensure that the DIY habitat is escape-proof, well-ventilated, and made from safe, non-toxic materials.

Bedding and Substrate

Gerbils are natural burrowers, and providing the right bedding is crucial for their comfort and health. Here are some suitable bedding options:

Aspen Shavings

Aspen shavings are a popular choice for gerbil bedding due to their natural texture and safety. They are relatively dust-free and provide a good substrate for burrowing.

Paper-Based Bedding

Paper-based bedding, such as shredded paper or commercial paper pellets, is soft and absorbent. It is a great option for gerbils with allergies or sensitivities, as it is dust-free and non-toxic.

Hay

Hay can be used as a supplemental bedding material, providing additional nesting material and promoting natural foraging behavior. However, it should not be the sole bedding material, as it does not offer the same burrowing capabilities as shavings or paper-based bedding.

Depth of Bedding

Provide a deep layer of bedding (at least 6 inches) to allow your gerbils to dig and create tunnels. The deeper the bedding, the more opportunities your gerbils will have to engage in natural burrowing behaviors, which are essential for their mental and physical well-being.

Essential Accessories

A well-equipped cage should include various accessories to keep your gerbils entertained and healthy. Here are some must-have items:

Exercise Wheel

An exercise wheel is essential for providing physical activity. Choose a wheel with a solid running surface to prevent injuries. The wheel should be large enough for your gerbil to run comfortably without arching its back (at least 8 inches in diameter).

Hideouts and Tunnels

Gerbils need hiding places and tunnels to feel secure and engage in natural behaviors. Provide multiple hideouts made from safe materials like wood, cardboard, or plastic. You can also use cardboard tubes from paper towel rolls to create DIY tunnels.

Chew Toys

Gerbils have continuously growing teeth and need chew toys to keep their teeth trimmed and healthy. Offer a variety of chew toys made from safe materials like untreated wood, cardboard, and coconut shells. Rotate the toys regularly to keep your gerbils interested and engaged.

Climbing Structures

Gerbils enjoy climbing and exploring their environment. Add branches, ladders, and platforms to encourage climbing and provide mental stimulation. Ensure that any climbing structures are stable and securely attached to prevent accidents.

Food and Water

Providing the right food and water setup is essential for your gerbils’ health:

Food Dish

Use a sturdy, shallow dish for your gerbils’ food. Ceramic dishes are a good choice, as they are difficult to tip over and easy to clean. Place the food dish in an accessible location within the cage.

Water Bottle

A water bottle with a sipper tube is the best way to provide fresh water for your gerbils. Attach the water bottle securely to the side of the cage at a height that is easy for your gerbils to reach. Check the water bottle daily to ensure it is functioning properly and refill it with clean, fresh water as needed.

Maintaining a Clean Environment

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for keeping your gerbils’ habitat healthy and odor-free:

Spot Cleaning

Perform spot cleaning daily by removing soiled bedding, uneaten food, and waste. This helps maintain a clean environment and prevents the buildup of odors.

Deep Cleaning

Perform a thorough cleaning of the cage and accessories every two to four weeks. Follow these steps for deep cleaning:

1. Remove Gerbils: Temporarily relocate your gerbils to a secure carrier or playpen.
2. Empty the Cage: Remove all bedding, toys, and accessories from the cage.
3. Clean the Cage: Wash the cage with warm water and a mild, pet-safe disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
4. Clean Accessories: Wash toys, hideouts, and other accessories with warm water and mild soap. Rinse and dry thoroughly before returning them to the cage.
5. Replace Bedding: Add fresh bedding to the cage, ensuring a deep layer for burrowing.
6. Reassemble the Cage: Return all cleaned accessories, toys, and the food and water setup to the cage.
7. Reintroduce Gerbils: Place your gerbils back into their clean, refreshed habitat.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect home for your gerbils involves careful consideration of their housing, bedding, accessories, and maintenance needs. By providing a spacious, well-equipped, and clean environment, you can ensure that your gerbils remain healthy, happy, and engaged. Gerbils are delightful pets that thrive in an environment that allows them to express their natural behaviors, and with the right care, they can become cherished members of your family.