Another Yes/No answer here – as it depends on the context. Yes – gerbils can shed their tail if the tail is pulled, trapped or damaged in some way – but no – they can’t choose to shed their tail. Gerbil keepers are always told not to pick up a gerbil by the tail for … Read more
Unfortunately yes – but not in a nasty way – they aren’t evil (although the outcome can need veterinary appointments). They are just acting out a predictable and essential pattern of behavior. Gerbils usually fight due to what is called a de-clan. Gerbils live in clans – where one gerbil needs to be the overall … Read more
Well, yes they do – and they may just use them as a potty or bury them under substrate – but they LOVE them for sure. You just have to clean them out a lot – we use a little tea-leaf sieve – or get a real deep-sided jar – or only use them in … Read more
If you are thinking of getting a pair of gerbils for company – then rest assured – you are getting yourself some very interactive, friendly and inquisitive pets. And gerbils certainly do bond with their owners if you have the time to share with them. Gerbils live best in pairs – so you can have … Read more
Now, when it comes to being busy little critters – your gerbils top the list. They just don’t like sitting still when they aren’t asleep. Running comes third only to digging and chewing – so when they have finished both of those other things – they want to run. They love to move. However, it … Read more
Well, now isn’t that a good question – and often asked in the colder weather when people start switching the heating on and the hedgehogs come out! Gerbils may well start to be less active; not seen as much above the surface of their burrows; and, maybe even stashing huge quantities of food underground – … Read more
We have all been there – come home to find the gerbil’s enclosure open and nobody home! That moment of dread wondering where they could be and whether they are still safe. Rule Number 1 is always immediately – and watching every step – close the door to that room (no matter how big that … Read more
Absolutely – they love mealworms as a treat for sure! Mealworms are the common name for the Darkling Beetle (Tenebrio molitor) and are found either live in pets stores or reptile outlets; or as dried mealworms in pet stores or garden centres (usually in the wild bird section). Mealworms are yummy to gerbils whether fresh … Read more
Gerbils are very sociable creatures and generally they live in peace and harmony. Groups or pairs or gerbils living together are called ‘clans’ and they can be anything from 2 gerbils up to many more depending on the circumstances. Gerbils do well in a clan and form strong bonds based on power and respect. However, … Read more
Absolutely – but that isn’t to say they don’t get on alone or in groups. Gerbils are clan animals – that is they are often kept in pairs or trios – and sometimes in small groups. They get on with each other most of the time – especially if they are related – and interact … Read more