8 Things to Know Before Getting a Pet Gerbil
Thinking about bringing home a gerbil? Good choice — these little guys are curious, social, and surprisingly entertaining. They’re also one of the easier pets to care for, which makes them a great fit for first-time pet parents or anyone with a busy schedule.
But before you rush to the pet store or adoption center, here’s what I’ve learned (from firsthand experience) about what it really takes to care for a gerbil — and what to know before you commit.
Gerbils Aren’t Clingy, but They Do Need You
One of the best things about gerbils is that they don’t demand constant attention. If you work a 9-to-5, they’ll be just fine entertaining themselves most of the day. But don’t confuse that with being okay alone — gerbils are social animals and really do better in pairs.
If you’re getting two, make sure they’re the same sex unless you’re ready for a surprise litter. Ideally, get siblings or gerbils who already know each other — introducing adults later can lead to fights (and yes, they can get pretty nasty for such small creatures).
Gentle Hands Only
Gerbils are small, fast, and delicate. They're not the best pick for toddlers unless you’re closely supervising and teaching gentle handling. I’ve seen kids try to pick them up by their tails — please don’t! That can cause serious injury.
They’re also easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements, so a calm, quiet area in the house is best. And always wash hands after handling — it’s just good hygiene.
They’re Clean, But Their Cage? Not So Much
Gerbils love to dig and burrow, which means they’re constantly kicking bedding out of their enclosure. It’s not that they’re dirty — in fact, they groom themselves regularly — but their habitat does get messy fast.
To keep the chaos contained, I recommend using a glass tank instead of a wire cage. Not only does it help with mess, but it’s safer too — no risk of chewing through bars or getting stuck. Just make sure it’s well-ventilated and cleaned weekly (more often if needed).
Chewers and Movers
Gerbils’ teeth never stop growing, so they need safe things to chew — constantly. Wooden chew toys made for rodents are great, as are cardboard tubes and untreated apple sticks. Be careful with DIY toys though: some woods (like cherry, pine, or redwood) are toxic.
And don’t forget exercise! A solid running wheel or a supervised playpen session outside the cage goes a long way. I’ve also used an exercise ball, but only under supervision — it’s easy for a gerbil to get stuck or hurt if left alone in one.
Treats Are Okay (In Moderation)
Gerbils have their own food mix, but you can absolutely offer small treats. I like giving mine tiny bits of carrot, cucumber, apple (no seeds!), or plain Cheerios. Just steer clear of chocolate, iceberg lettuce (can cause diarrhea), and anything too sugary or salty.
Housing: Think Spacious and Safe
A 20-gallon glass tank is a good starting point for a pair of gerbils, but bigger is always better. They need room to dig, hide, and play. Inside, set up plenty of bedding (they’ll tunnel through it), a hideout box, food and water, and chew toys.
Place the tank somewhere cool and out of direct sunlight — gerbils can overheat easily. Avoid drafty or noisy areas too.
Health: Don’t Skip the Vet
Most gerbils live 2–3 years, though some can make it to 5 or even 8 with excellent care. Regular vet checkups help catch common problems early — especially dental issues like overgrown teeth, which can make it painful for them to eat and lead to bigger health problems.
I’ve seen gerbils stop eating entirely because of tooth issues, and they can go downhill fast. A quick vet trim can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Gerbils are fun, social, and surprisingly low-maintenance — no daily walks, no grooming appointments, and no 10-year commitment. But they do need the right setup, good food, companionship, and attention to health.
If you’re looking for a pet that’s active, curious, and full of personality (without taking over your whole life), a couple of gerbils might be just what you’re looking for.
Just be warned: they’re more entertaining than you’d expect. I’ve lost track of time watching mine dig elaborate tunnels or stuff their cheeks like tiny hoarders. They’ll keep you smiling — and that’s what a great pet is all about.