“Get the biggest housing you will actually clean-they appreciate the space,” Hanna says. So, if you have a pair of gerbils, a 20-gallon cage-or an average base of 12 inches by 30 inches-is a good minimum, she adds. While previously 5-gallons per gerbil was considered adequate, now the rule of thumb is 10-gallons of space per gerbil. “Never get one gerbil always pairs or even-numbered groups,” Hanna says. They need lots of room to burrow and run and enjoy other gerbil interaction. When selecting your gerbils’ cage, keep in mind that these small mammals are social creatures. The main disadvantage, she says, is not being able to see through them well. In line with the all-plastic option, Hanna says people are taking plastic storage tubs or containers and “turning them into perfectly acceptable enclosures” with ¼-inch hardware mesh fastened to the top. A compromise, Hanna suggests, is to use a plastic cage as a play structure for when you’re cleaning your gerbils’ main enclosure. Some styles provide little ventilation and you must pay extra attention to the maintenance of these cages because they tend to smell more quickly. “But gerbils, unlike hamsters, are incredible chewers and will destroy every non-metal surface, and they often get loose because they chew their way out. “Kids think they’re fun and like the tubes, so these might prolong the period the children remain interested in the gerbils,” Hanna says. ![]() These tend to be attractive to pet parents, especially children, with their fun colors and styles, but because gerbils chew everything, experts do not recommend them as primary housing. ![]() However, she doesn’t recommend wire cages because “gerbils can get their teeth caught on the wires, and neurotic chewers can chew their teeth to nubs on them.” Plastic CagesĪvailable in all plastic and plastic-and-wire combinations, these enclosures are another prevalent option for gerbil cages. In some situations, where people live in extremely humid climates, the excessive humidity can cause more potent odor in the glass tank setup, Hanna says, and pet parents might find wire cages a better fit. Wire cages offer plenty of airflow, but it can make the surrounding area messy because bedding inevitably will spill out. Bars 1/4-inch apart at most is recommended. For example, Ware’s 4-story small animal cage features an all-metal, chew-proof design that includes shelves and ramps.īe sure to select a cage with bars close enough together that your gerbils cannot escape or get their teeth, feet or tails caught. Wire is effective to keep gerbils from chewing their way out and escaping. Wire CagesĪnother common option for gerbil cages is wire cages. “You can start with a second-hand enclosure by repurposing a fish aquarium or lizard terrarium.”Īnother benefit of using glass aquariums or terrariums as gerbil cages is that this option works well in all parts of the country, regardless the climate, and it is compact for all living situations, she adds. “These glass enclosures are economical,” Hanna says. You can buy the lid at a store or construct it yourself out of hardware cloth. This also prevents your gerbils from jumping out of the cage and keeps any housecats from preying on your critters. If you decide on an aquarium or terrarium, you will need a mesh or wire lid securely fitted on top to provide air circulation. “It also keeps the bedding inside to keep things clean.” “It’s great for the gerbils themselves because they’re kept safely inside with virtually no chance of escape,” Hanna says. Most importantly, the gerbils cannot chew through these enclosures. These containers are inexpensive, easy to clean and allow you to observe your gerbils more pleasurably. Glass aquariums or terrariums are a popular option for gerbil cages and the one most often recommended, Hanna says. In looking for gerbil housing, there are three main choices that most people consider, Hanna says. We spoke with Libby Hanna, a certified judge and president of the American Gerbil Society in Clermont, Florida, to find out how to pick the best cage for your gerbil and how you should set it up. ![]() That darling digging, chewing and high jumping can be devastating if your critter’s home doesn’t protect them from their instincts. These fabulous characteristics mean pet parents must be wise in choosing gerbil housing. Gerbils are known for their friendliness with human and other gerbil family members, their tunneling expertise, jumping prowess, gnawing mastery and cute, cozy naps. These sociable creatures make great companions and are fascinating to bond with. If you’re looking for a small pet with big personality, the gerbil might be just the right match.
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