Gerbils are fascinating pets. A lot can be learnt from sitting, watching them in their maze of tunnels.
They enjoy living in family groups and will spend hours grooming and foraging together. Although these energetic little mammals are not keen on being handled, they can still make a lovely and interesting addition to any family.
Gerbils really do prefer the company of their own kind and are most happy living in small same sex family groups.
Gerbils can live up to 3-5 years.
Gerbils are best housed in a large fish tank or an Ikea Detolf display cabinet as they prefer to live underground and so need the ability to dig deep.
The ideal tank size for a pair or small group of gerbils is:
Learn more about gerbil accommodation and how to make them feel at home.
Gerbils are omnivores, they require a well balance diet of seeds, grains, pulses and meat sources.
Gerbils are generally quite healthy animals. Often most illness comes with old age or poor husbandry. Always carry out a health check on your gerbils each week to monitor for any changes in their behaviour, movement, toileting and general appearance.
Learn more about your gerbils’ health.
Gerbils rarely enjoy being handled so do suit a family who are happy to watch them over trying to handle.
Discover the perfect care tips for your gerbils in our gerbil care guide.
Adopt a gerbil and give them a new home with Woodgreen.
Gerbils spend much of their time underground or busy digging tunnels and foraging for food. They are designed to dig, so floor space is more important than height and shelves.
Read more about 'How to make your gerbils feel at home'
Gerbils are generally quite healthy animals – most of their illnesses come with age.
Read more about 'Your gerbils’ health: what to look out for'