How to Keep a Pet Gerbil

A gerbil is a rodent in the subfamily Gerbillinae. About 110 species exist in 14 genera, but the Mongolian gerbil is the most common choice as a pet. The Mongolian gerbil is native to Asia and was brought to the United States in 1954 for research purposes. They were being sold as pets by 1964, although it is illegal to own them in California. Here's how to keep a pet gerbil.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Keep gerbils in groups if possible. Gerbils are social animals, but they must be introduced to each other carefully. Use a neutral cage that neither one has been in before, and separate them with a clear plastic divider. Observe their reactions to each other closely for an extended period of time before removing the divider.
2. House your gerbil in a glass aquarium if possible. Build a second level if the housing does not already have one. Line the cage with newspaper and add shredded paper or timothy hay for bedding.
3. Feed your gerbil a high-quality gerbil mix. These are commonly available and should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid seeds because they are high in fat.
4. Provide plenty of safe items for them to chew. Like other rodents, their teeth grow continually and they need to keep them worn down. The best possible choice is wicker that has not been treated with chemicals, dyes or glues.
5. Hold your gerbils a little each day. This is necessary to keep them from becoming unsociable. Cup your hands around your gerbil and carefully lift it out of the cage. Never pick a gerbil up by the tail.