How Much Do Great Gerbils Weigh? A Comprehensive Guide to Great Gerbil Care!

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Great gerbils are small, typically weighing between 60 and 120 grams. They have a round, plump body with short legs and a long, furry tail. Their coat can range in color from light brown to gray, and they have large, dark eyes. They have sharp teeth that continuously grow, so providing them with chew toys is important to maintain their dental health.

Behavior

Great gerbils are highly social animals and prefer to live in pairs or groups. They are active during the day and sleep at night. They are known for their burrowing abilities and will construct elaborate tunnels and burrows in the wild. In captivity, they will appreciate a habitat that allows them to dig and burrow.

Gerbil Habitat and Environment

Cage Size and Setup

When it comes to selecting a cage for your great gerbil, bigger is always better. The minimum recommended size for a pair of gerbils is 10 gallons, but a 20-gallon tank or larger is ideal. The cage should be made of glass or plastic, with a secure wire mesh lid to prevent escape.

It’s important to provide your gerbil with plenty of bedding to burrow in. Aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or natural fiber bedding are all good options. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can be harmful to your gerbil’s respiratory system.

Temperature and Humidity

Great gerbils are adapted to living in the desert, so they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it’s important to keep their habitat out of direct sunlight and away from drafts. The ideal temperature range for their enclosure is between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Gerbils do not tolerate high humidity well, so it’s important to keep their environment dry. Aim for a humidity level of around 40 to 60 percent.

Gerbil Diet and Nutrition

Food Types and Portions

A balanced diet is crucial to keeping your great gerbil healthy. A good quality commercial rodent food should make up the majority of their diet. Supplement this with fresh vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, and broccoli. You can also offer small amounts of fruit, such as apple or banana. Avoid feeding your gerbil high-fat or high-sugar treats.

Water and Hydration

Fresh water should always be available to your gerbil. A water bottle with a sipper tube is the best option, as it will keep the water clean and fresh. Change the water daily and clean the bottle regularly.

Gerbil Hygiene and Health

Grooming and Cleaning

Gerbils are fastidious animals and will groom themselves regularly. However, you can assist in their grooming by providing a dust bath. Chinchilla dust is a great option, as it will help to remove excess oil from their coat.

It’s important to keep your gerbil’s environment clean to prevent illness. Spot clean the cage daily, removing any soiled bedding or food. Clean the entire cage once a week, using a pet-safe disinfectant.

Common Health Issues and Prevention

Some common health issues that can affect great gerbils include dental problems, respiratory infections, and skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups can help to catch any health issues early on. Providing your gerbil with a balanced diet and a clean environment can also go a long way in preventing health issues.

Gerbil Enrichment and Playtime

Enrichment Activities

Gerbils are active animals that require mental stimulation. Providing them with a variety of toys and activities can help keep them happy and healthy. Examples of enrichment activities include placing toys and tunnels in their habitat, hiding food for them to find, and providing a running wheel.

Playtime and Exercise

Gerbils also require daily playtime outside of their cage. Provide a small, secure play area and supervise your gerbil during playtime. You can also use this time to bond with your pet and provide them with affection.

Breeding and Baby Gerbil Care

Breeding and Mating Process

Breeding gerbils is not recommended for inexperienced pet owners. If you do choose to breed your gerbils, make sure to research the process thoroughly and only breed healthy animals. Gerbil pregnancies last for around 24 days, and litters usually range between three and six babies.

Baby Gerbil Care and Raising

Baby gerbils are born hairless and blind, and are dependent on their mother’s milk for the first few weeks of life. Once they start eating solid food, it’s important to provide them with a balanced diet. They should be weaned from their mother at around six weeks of age and can be separated into their own cage at around eight weeks.

Conclusion

Great gerbils are fascinating pets that can provide years of joy and companionship. By providing them with a clean environment, a balanced diet, and daily enrichment and playtime, you can help ensure that they live happy and healthy lives.

ThePetFaq Team
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