Gerbil care — AEMV guide distilled
Of 15 gerbil species, the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) is the prevalent U.S. pet, native to the deserts of Mongolia and northeastern China. They are social, active day and night (peak at night), live in elaborate burrows, and are all captive-bred. Captive lifespan is 3–4 years.
Housing & environment
- Allow at least 72 sq in (464 cm²) per gerbil as a minimum; a breeding pair needs at least 350 sq in.
- Sides must be at least 6 in (14 cm) high and the enclosure escape-proof with a hide box. Keep 65–71°F (18–21°C) at 45–55% humidity; provide a water bottle (desert-adapted gerbils drink less). Use solid flooring; give 12 hours light / 12 hours dark.
- Bedding: shredded paper, recycled newspaper composite, reclaimed wood pulp or hardwood shavings. Avoid pine, cedar and corn cob.
Diet & nutrition
Commercial pelleted diets are preferred over seed mixes. Feed with fresh vegetables (cabbage, kale, broccoli, carrots, beets) and soaked sprouts; alfalfa hay should be available for grazing and is a good calcium source for nursing females. Excess sunflower seeds and other high-fat foods lead to obesity. Fresh water always via sipper tube or small bottle.
Behavior & veterinary care
Gerbils are social — best kept as a pair (neutering the male prevents overpopulation). Adult gerbils may fight to the death if introduced as adults, so acquaint them before 8 weeks. Handle gently: support on the palm with the base of the tail close to the body, and avoid grasping the tail tip — the skin may slip off (tail slip). An annual exam is recommended.
Common disorders
AEMV lists trauma (including tail slip); malnutrition; sore nose / facial eczema / nasal dermatitis; Epileptiform seizures; diarrhea/enteritis; Malocclusion; cancer/neoplasia; and obesity.
Sources
aemv_care_guide_gerbil— AEMV Exotics Companion Care Series (gerbil): Mongolian most common, social, lifespan 3–4 yr; housing ≥72 sq in/gerbil (≥350 for pair), sides ≥6 in, 65–71°F/45–55% RH, solid flooring, 12h light; pelleted > seed mix, alfalfa hay for nursing, avoid excess sunflower; pairs, acquaint before 8 wk, tail slip; annual exam; disorder list incl. epileptiform seizures.