If you’re looking for a Gerbil/Gerbal overview, then you’re in the right place. On this page, we’re going to take a look at all the information you’ll need to know before you fully commit to getting one for yourself.
While gerbils aren’t as big a commitment as, say, a puppy or kitten, they are still creatures that’ll require a lot of time and attention -- and in any case, when you’re bringing any type of animal into your life, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself in for.
Why you should get a gerbil
To begin, let’s focus on why you may want to get a baby gerbil in the first place. There are a couple of good reasons why you’ll want to consider getting one. For starters, they’re not expensive, either to procure or to look after. They’re also low maintenance. In fact, aside from perhaps a goldfish, they’re the easiest pet to look after, probably -- you just don’t have to do all that much. The biggest reason people keep gerbils as pets, however, is that they can be deeply entertaining and fun. They all have their own personalities, as you’ll come to see
The essentials
Gerbils are low maintenance pets, it’s true, but there will be some essentials that you need to make sure that they’re fully set up to thrive. The basics include providing them with housing, water, and food. For their housing, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality cage, and fill it with bedding. There are many excellent gerbil food mixes available, while you should also make water available. Aside from that, it’s all about handling them and building your connection!
How long do gerbils live?
Before getting any pet, you’ll need to think about how long they’re going to live. Sure, this isn’t the most cheerful to think about when you’re bringing a creature into your life, but it is important. You’ll need to know that you’re able to commit to looking after them for the duration of their life. There are a number of different gerbil types/breeds, and how long you can expect your pet to live will depend on the breed.
Mongolian gerbils have a lifespan of around two to five years. Larger gerbils can live for as long as five to eight years. As always, this is not a hard and fast rule. The number of years that they live will depend on various factors, including how well you look after them.
Instead of becoming too focused on the years that they’ll have, just focus on giving them the best quality of life that you can.
Trips to the vet
It’s important that you’re taking your gerbil to the vet on occasion. This will help to identify any problems while they’re in the early stages. The vet may also suggest lifestyle modifications that would benefit your vet; for instance, feeding them more or less, or ensuring that they get more exercise. Try to take your gerbil to the vet as a matter of routine.