Gerbil Buying Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Thinking about welcoming gerbils into your home? Great choice! These lively, curious little rodents make wonderful pets for families and individuals alike. But before you bring home a pair (gerbils are highly social and should always be kept in same-sex pairs or groups), it’s important to understand their unique needs. Gerbils are active burrowers that require a spacious enclosure, a solid running wheel, deep bedding, and a balanced diet. With the right setup, they’ll thrive and provide hours of entertainment. This guide will walk you through the essentials so you can make informed decisions when shopping for gerbil supplies.

What to Look For

When choosing gerbil products, prioritize safety, durability, and ease of cleaning. For habitats, look for a tank-style enclosure (glass aquarium or large plastic bin) rather than wire cages, as gerbils can squeeze through bars and may injure their noses on wire. A minimum of 10 gallons per gerbil is recommended, but bigger is always better. Ensure the lid is secure but well-ventilated. For bedding, choose paper-based or aspen shavings, avoid pine and cedar, which can cause respiratory issues. A solid-surface exercise wheel (at least 8 inches in diameter) is a must; wire or mesh wheels can cause bumblefoot. For food, look for a high-quality gerbil or rat lab block as the staple, supplemented with a small amount of seed mix. Treats should be limited and always check with your vet for safe options.

Top Types to Consider

1. Glass Aquarium with Topper

Glass tanks provide excellent ventilation when paired with a mesh lid, and they allow for deep bedding (6-12 inches) that gerbils love for burrowing. A tank is chew-proof and easy to clean. Look for one with a secure locking lid.
Pros: Deep bedding possible, escape-proof, easy to see your pets.*

2. Plastic Bin Cage

Large plastic storage bins (at least 40 gallons) can be converted into affordable, spacious gerbil homes. Drill ventilation holes or cut out a section and cover with wire mesh. Bins are lightweight, easy to clean, and hold bedding well.
Pros: Budget-friendly, customizable, great depth for burrowing.*

3. Wire Cage (with modifications)

If you prefer a wire cage, choose one with narrow bar spacing (≤1/2 inch) and a solid base deep enough for bedding. Some gerbil owners use a wire cage atop a tank to combine climbing and burrowing space.
Pros: Excellent ventilation, multiple levels available.*

4. Solid Metal Exercise Wheel

A sturdy, silent-running wheel with a solid running surface is essential. Look for wheels at least 8 inches in diameter to prevent back curvature. Brands like Silent Runner or Wodent Wheel are popular.
Pros: Safe for feet, quiet operation, durable.*

How to Choose

Start by assessing your available space and budget. The habitat is your biggest investment, consider a 40-gallon breeder tank for a pair of gerbils. For the wheel, prioritize solid surface over mesh; a silent bearing keeps nighttime noise down. Bedding should be unscented and dust-free; paper bedding is soft, while aspen is more absorbent. Food-wise, consult your vet for a brand that meets nutritional needs; Oxbow and Mazuri are commonly recommended. A water bottle with a metal sipper tube is better than a bowl to prevent spills. Add chew toys (wood, cardboard, pumice) and a sand bath for grooming. Always check the current price on Amazon before purchasing to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Keeping a single gerbil: Gerbils are social and can become depressed or stressed alone. Always adopt at least two.
• Using dusty or aromatic bedding: Pine and cedar shavings can cause respiratory problems. Stick to paper or aspen.
• Choosing a wire wheel: Mesh or wire wheels can trap toes and cause injuries. Use only solid-surface wheels.
• Overfeeding treats or seeds: Gerbils can become obese or picky eaters. Limit seeds and sugary treats.
• Placing the cage in direct sunlight or drafts: Gerbils are sensitive to temperature extremes. Keep the habitat in a stable, 65-75°F area.
• Skipping regular cleaning: Spot-clean daily and do a full cleaning every 2-4 weeks to prevent ammonia buildup.

Bottom Line

Setting up a happy home for gerbils comes down to a secure habitat with deep bedding, a safe wheel, and a balanced diet. Spend time researching products and always prioritize your pets’ comfort over aesthetics. With the right supplies and a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with curious, active companions that bring joy to your daily life.

Happy gerbil keeping!

Check current prices on Amazon

Sources

• AKC
• ASPCA

What you need to know

Gerbils are active, sociable burrowers, so beginner kit should reflect how they actually live. They need a deep layer of safe bedding to dig and tunnel, which a shallow cage cannot provide, so a tank or hybrid with high sides suits them better than a typical barred cage. Provide a sand bath for grooming, plenty of chew safe wood, and a solid wheel sized so the back stays flat.

Gerbils are happiest kept in same sex pairs or small groups from young, as a lone gerbil can become withdrawn. Introducing unfamiliar adults is risky and needs a careful split cage method. Keep the habitat away from draughts, damp and direct sun, and out of reach of cats. Avoid cotton wool style bedding, which can tangle limbs and cause blockages if eaten. For any signs of illness or fighting, separate and consult a vet experienced with small pets.