Gerbil Habitat
Creating the right environment is one of the most important things you can do for your gerbils. As natural burrowers, their habitat needs to accommodate their instinct to dig. A proper setup will keep them safe, healthy, and endlessly entertained.
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Enclosure
The best enclosure for gerbils is a glass tank or aquarium with a secure wire mesh lid.
- Size: A 20-gallon long tank is the minimum for a pair of gerbils, but a 40-gallon breeder tank is even better. More space is always preferred.
- Why not wire cages? Gerbils are persistent chewers and can easily chew through plastic bases. They also kick bedding out of wire cages, creating a mess. Most importantly, wire floors can cause foot injuries, and the shallow base of most wire cages does not allow for the deep bedding they require.
Bedding and Burrowing
This is the most critical part of a gerbil's habitat. In the wild, gerbils live in extensive underground tunnels.
- Depth: You must provide at least 6-8 inches of bedding, though 10+ inches is ideal.
- Safe Bedding Types:
- Paper-based bedding (like Kaytee Clean & Cozy or Carefresh)
- Aspen shavings
- A mix of bedding types can help hold tunnels better.
- Unsafe Bedding: NEVER use cedar or pine shavings, as their aromatic oils are toxic and can cause respiratory problems. Avoid scented bedding and fluffy cotton material, which can cause impactions if ingested.
Enrichment and Accessories
- Wheel: A solid-surface wheel (not wire) with a diameter of 6-8 inches is a good addition, though not all gerbils will use one.
- Sand Bath: A shallow dish of chinchilla sand (not dust) should be offered a few times a week. Gerbils use it to clean their coats and remove excess oils.
- Chews: Provide plenty of cardboard (toilet paper tubes, boxes) and untreated wood chews to help wear down their constantly growing teeth.
- Hides: Offer hides made of wood or ceramic.
Environment
- Temperature: Keep the enclosure in a room with a stable temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- Location: Place the tank away from direct sunlight, drafts, and loud noises.