Safe Household Foods:
* Fruits: Apples (without seeds), bananas (in moderation), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), melon (watermelon, cantaloupe), mango, papaya, peaches, pears.
* Vegetables: Carrots (in moderation), broccoli, celery, cucumbers, green beans, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, zucchini.
* Grains: Oatmeal (unflavored, cooked), rice (cooked), bread (plain, in moderation).
* Seeds: Sunflower seeds (in moderation), pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds.
* Nuts: Almonds (in moderation), peanuts (in moderation), walnuts (in moderation).
* Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, dill, basil (in moderation).
* Other: Plain yogurt (in moderation), hard-boiled eggs (in moderation).
Important Notes:
* Moderation is key: Even safe foods should be given in small quantities and only as a treat.
* Avoid sugars and processed foods: Sugary treats, chocolate, candy, and processed foods are harmful to gerbils.
* Fresh is best: Offer fresh fruits and vegetables whenever possible.
* Wash all produce: Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before feeding them to your gerbil.
* No seeds from stone fruits: Avoid feeding your gerbil seeds from fruits like peaches, cherries, plums, or apricots.
* Don't give them human food regularly: Gerbils need a balanced diet of gerbil-specific food.
Always check with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your gerbil's diet. They can provide personalized advice based on your gerbil's age, health, and individual needs.