Gerbils

Gerbils can make very interesting pets. They are inquisitive and very busy little creatures, but they have complex needs. As with any pet there is lots to consider before committing to taking on a gerbil.

Environment

A suitable living environment

Diet

A suitable diet

Behaviour

To be able to behave normally

Companionship

To have appropriate companionship

Health

To be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease

1

Environment

A suitable living environment

2

Diet

A suitable diet

3

Behaviour

To be able to behave normally

4

Companionship

To have appropriate companionship

5

Health

To be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease

Did you know?

The likely lifetime cost of owning a pair of gerbils could be up to £500-1,000. This includes bedding & enrichment, appropriately sized accommodation and a healthy diet. However, this does not include veterinary fees for illness or injury. When choosing to take on a pet, it is important to remember that under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and similar legislation in Scotland and Northern Ireland, a child under the age of 16 cannot have legal responsibility for an animal’s welfare – it is the responsibility of the child’s parents or carers to ensure that the animals’ needs are met.

3-5 years life expectancy (some may live for longer)

Gerbils are very social and prefer to live in small same sex family groups

Omnivores: should be fed a well-balanced diet, made up of a mixture of different seeds, grains, a meat source (such as meal worms) and vegetable sources & fresh clean drinking water

Housing: spacious indoor enclosure to enable behaviours including exploring, running, digging and foraging

Are gerbils right for me?

Gerbils can make very interesting pets; they are not keen on being handled and tend to be very fast and wriggly when attempts are made. They are more suited to families who are happy to watch them busily build their tunnels and burrows. With any new pet, it is very important to take the time to learn as much as possible about the modern way of caring for your chosen pet.

Not sure where to start? Click on any of the charity links at the bottom of this page for lots of up to date advice and support

Check before you buy

Common Scams

So you think you are ready to become a gerbil owner? Visit any of these charity links for the latest advice and support in finding your new pets.