Essentials:
* Spacious Cage: Gerbils are energetic and social creatures. Aim for a cage at least 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches tall (the bigger, the better!).
* Bedding: Aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or even a mix of shredded cardboard and paper are good choices. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as they can irritate gerbils' respiratory systems.
* Food Dish: A ceramic or metal dish is ideal for dry food, but make sure it's heavy enough so they can't tip it over.
* Water Bottle: A sipper bottle is the best option, but be sure to choose one with a metal spout that's easy for gerbils to use.
* Hideout: Gerbils need a place to hide and feel safe. Offer them a cardboard box, a ceramic house, or a natural hideout made from wood or bamboo.
* Wheel: A solid wheel (not wire) is crucial for exercise. Make sure it's large enough for your gerbil to run comfortably without their back arching.
Enrichment and Fun:
* Chew Toys: Gerbils have constantly growing teeth, so chew toys are essential. Provide them with safe options like:
* Wooden blocks
* Lava rock
* Unsalted, unflavored nutshells
* Paper tubes
* Sand Bath: Gerbils love to dust bathe! A small plastic container filled with chinchilla sand (NOT play sand) is a great addition.
* Climbing Structures: Branches, tunnels, or even cardboard tubes can provide climbing opportunities.
* Toys: Small toys like plastic balls, bells, or safe fabric items can entertain your gerbils.
* Digging Box: A plastic storage bin filled with dirt or shredded paper provides a place to dig and explore.
Things to Avoid:
* Toxic Materials: Avoid cedar and pine shavings, certain plastics, and any materials that could be chewed and ingested.
* Small Objects: Gerbils can easily swallow small objects, so be sure to keep anything that could be a choking hazard out of the cage.
* Wire Cages: Wire cages can hurt their feet, so stick with solid cages.
* Unstable Structures: Anything that could easily tip over or collapse could injure your gerbils.
Remember:
* Cleanliness: Clean the cage weekly and change the bedding more often as needed.
* Fresh Water: Make sure your gerbil's water bottle is always full and clean.
* Variety: Offer a variety of toys, hideouts, and enrichment items to keep your gerbil entertained and stimulated.
By providing a safe, enriching, and stimulating environment, you can give your gerbil a happy and healthy life.