Will Gerbils Run Away? Tips to Keep Your Furry Friends Safe and Secure

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The short answer is yes, gerbils can run away. They are energetic and curious animals that love to explore their surroundings. If they find a way out of their cage or play area, they may wander off and get lost.

Why Do Gerbils Run Away?

Gerbils run away for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is boredom. If they are not provided with enough toys and activities to keep them entertained, they may try to escape to find something more interesting to do. Another reason is fear. If they are scared or feel threatened, they may try to run away to find safety.

Tips for Keeping Gerbils Safe and Secure

Choosing the Right Cage

The first step in keeping your gerbils safe and secure is to choose the right cage. Gerbils are active animals that need plenty of space to play and explore. A cage that is too small will make them feel cramped and stressed, which can lead to health problems and behavior issues. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 10 gallons of space per gerbil.

Securing the Cage

Once you have chosen the right cage, it’s important to make sure that it is secure. Gerbils are notorious escape artists and can easily chew through plastic or thin wire cages. Invest in a sturdy cage made of metal or heavy-duty plastic and make sure that all doors and latches are secure.

Providing Hiding Places

Gerbils love to hide and burrow, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of hiding places in their cage. This will not only keep them entertained but also give them a sense of security. You can use cardboard boxes, tunnels, or even empty toilet paper rolls to create hiding places for your gerbils.

Creating a Safe Play Area

In addition to their cage, gerbils also need a safe play area where they can run around and explore. However, it’s important to make sure that this area is secure and free from any potential hazards. Make sure to remove any electrical cords, toxic plants, or other dangerous items from the area.

What to Do if Your Gerbil Runs Away

Search the Immediate Area

If your gerbil runs away, the first thing you should do is search the immediate area. Gerbils are small and can easily hide in small spaces, so make sure to check under furniture, behind appliances, and in other small spaces.

Place Food and Water Outdoors

Gerbils can survive for several days without food or water, but it’s still important to provide them with these necessities if they are outside. Place a bowl of water and some food outside near the area where your gerbil was last seen. This will increase the chances of them coming back.

Ask Neighbors to Keep an Eye Out

Let your neighbors know that your gerbil is missing and ask them to keep an eye out. Gerbils are small and may be hard to see, so the more people looking for them, the better.

Use Live Traps or Humane Traps

If your gerbil is still missing after a few days, you can try using live traps or humane traps to catch them. These traps are designed to catch small animals without hurting them, and can be purchased at most pet stores.

Post Flyers and Utilize Social Media

Finally, post flyers and utilize social media to spread the word about your missing gerbil. Include a picture and a description of your gerbil, as well as your contact information. This will increase the chances of someone finding your furry friend and returning them to you.

Conclusion

Gerbils are adorable and fun pets to have around, but it’s important to keep them safe and secure. By choosing the right cage, securing it properly, providing hiding places and play areas, and taking the necessary steps if your gerbil runs away, you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come. Remember, gerbils are curious animals that love to explore, so make sure to give them plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained and engaged.

ThePetFaq Team
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