Gnaw-proof tank 75L+ with deep substrate, for a pair
Social needs
Social; keep same-sex pairs or small groups
Diet
Quality gerbil seed/grain mix plus occasional protein
Time
Daily feeding and checks; weekly spot-cleaning
Cost
Low
Overview
The Mongolian gerbil is a small desert rodent that is active in short bursts through the day and night.
Hardy, clean and fairly low-odour, it is a good beginner pet for those who enjoy watching natural behaviour.
Gerbils are strongly driven to dig and tunnel, so their care centres on deep substrate for burrowing.
They are social and should not be kept entirely alone.
Housing
A gnaw-proof tank or convertible enclosure of at least 75 litres suits a pair, with a deep layer of substrate (20cm or more) so they can build real burrow systems.
Avoid plastic-only cages, which they quickly chew through.
Mix paper-based bedding with hay for stable tunnels, and add a sand bath, wooden chews and a solid-surface wheel of 20cm or more in diameter.
Keep them at room temperature, out of direct sun and away from damp.
Diet
Feed a quality gerbil mix of seeds and grains, scattered to encourage natural foraging.
Supplement occasionally with a little fresh vegetable, a mealworm or other small protein source, and offer hay for fibre and enrichment.
Fresh water must always be available from a bottle.
Limit fatty sunflower seeds and avoid sugary or citrus foods.
As desert animals gerbils drink little, but they still need constant access to clean water.
Health
Gerbils are generally robust but can suffer tail-skin injuries if handled by the tail tip, so always scoop them from the body.
Overgrown teeth, scent-gland tumours and stress-related seizures can occur.
Watch for sore noses caused by digging in dusty or dirty bedding.
Monitor weight and activity, and seek an exotics vet promptly for lethargy, lumps or breathing changes.
Temperament
Gerbils are curious and busy and rarely aggressive toward people.
They tame readily, often coming to the hand to investigate, and are engaging to watch as they dig, store food and groom each other.
They are social and should live in compatible same-sex pairs or small groups, ideally littermates introduced young.
Falling out (declanning) can occur, so monitor group harmony and do not house unfamiliar adults together carelessly.
Beginner
Beginner
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate