Caring For Your Gerbil | Blue Cross

There are about 90 species of gerbil, but the Mongolian gerbil is the one kept as a pet. They are sometimes mistaken for mice or rats, but they look and behave differently. Gerbils have long, hairy tails and are serious diggers!

Do gerbils make good pets?

They are active, sociable and intelligent and are very interesting to watch when provided with the right environment. For older children, gerbils can make rewarding pets but it’s important that an adult is responsible for overseeing their care and wellbeing.

Gerbils do not enjoy being picked up and handled as they prefer to have their feet firmly on the ground. They're naturally quick and agile, so younger children can also find it difficult to hold them without squeezing too hard.

If you have young children, read our advice on finding the right small pet for you.

How long do pet gerbils live?

Gerbils generally live for up to three to four years, although they may live longer.

Do gerbils need company?

Gerbils are very sociable and should not be kept alone. They naturally live in a group, so it’s not fair to keep one on their own.

If you buy two or more baby gerbils of the same sex – from the same litter or harmonious group – they should get on well. But adult gerbils (ie over 10 weeks old) can be aggressive towards any newcomers to the group. Find out what to do if you're introducing gerbils and what to do if they fight.

Are gerbils nocturnal?

Gerbils are generally diurnal which means they are mostly active during the day but can also be active in the evening and at night. So you may not want to keep their tank in the bedroom as they might disturb you while you're sleeping.

Where to get gerbils

Animal charities

Rehoming centres like ours take in rescue gerbils for lots of reasons, like a change in the owners circumstances or if they're not getting the care they need. Before you buy a gerbil, make sure you do your research and consider adopting one instead.

Rehome a gerbil

Breeders and pet shops

Another option is to buy one from a responsible pet shop or breeder. Here are some things to bear in mind:

• Make sure the breeder or shop staff know how to care for them and can handle the gerbils confidently
• They should have clean, good-sized accommodation and access to food and fresh water
• Cages should have plenty of enrichment (or activities) for the gerbil and deep bedding for them to burrow in
• Gerbils should not be sold until they are at least six weeks old
• The breeder or pet shop staff should be able to show you the difference between the sexes. If they are not confident, it's best to walk away as you cannot be sure that your gerbil isn't pregnant.

Caring for your gerbils

What do I need to buy for my gerbils?

• A suitable gerbilarium or tank with lots of space allowing them to dig
• Bedding
• Suitable food
• Earthenware or stainless steel bowls for food
• Water bottle
• Lots of tunnels eg toilet rolls
• A nest box
• A sand bath
• Something to chew on
• Plastic-free toys to keep them entertained
• A carry case for trips to the vet

As well as the above, your gerbils need a constant supply of fresh water. You may also want to consider getting pet insurance.

Gerbilariums and tanks for gerbils

In the wild, gerbils live in underground tunnels up to three metres long. The best way to mimic their natural habitat and keep them happy is to buy a gerbilarium or tank with cage additions.

You can also house them in a large tank or old aquarium with a secure wire lid that lets oxygen in. They'll also need plenty of material for them to dig and tunnel into. Cages made entirely of wire sides are not suitable because they need deep bedding to burrow in.

Two to four gerbils need a minimum floor surface of 100cm long, by 40cm wide, by 40cm tall to allow them plenty of space to explore, dig, build tunnels and hop about.