gerbil_cages
Gerbils
Gerbils are a type of rodent and they are more often found in the wild than as pets. Yet it is the domesticated gerbil that most people think of when their name pops into a conversation. A gerbil can make a wonderful pet for a child because it will teach them about being responsible. You also dont need very much room to care for one and the basic supplies are very affordable.
Gerbils are found all over the world though and there are more than 100 species of them. They vary in size depending on where they live and the types of food that they eat. Almost all of the species of gerbils are plant eaters though and they are able to adapt to just about any type of environmental surroundings.
The idea of gerbils being used as pets happened quite by accident. In the early 1950s they were used for an array of scientific experiments. This was when the nature of various species were observed. It was determined they would do very well in captivity. Of course if you choose to get a pet gerbil you need to get one from a pet store or a breeder. You dont want to just get one from the wild and then attempt to make a pet out of it.
The use of gerbils for experimentation isnt as widespread as it once was. This is due to the complaints by various types of animal rights groups. Many consumers have also decided to ban products that are made from manufactures that test their products on such animals. This has really hit the makers in the pocketbook and they have had to take these wishes into consideration.
The behaviors of gerbils will depend on their environment. They tend to move around a great deal so you need to make sure the cage you have for them is large enough to accommodate that. They are also famous for chewing and you need to give them something to gnaw on. Otherwise their teeth will grow too long and become too sharp. Gerbils have very good ears but they are sensitive so try to keep the noise level down around them too. Pay attention to the volume on the stereo so you wont affect them from the sound and the vibration.
Gerbil Cages
There are many different types of gerbil cages you can choose from. It is a good idea to be one that is much larger than what they full size of your gerbil will be. They are very active creatures and they need room to roam around and to play. You also want to give them room to dig around. To help keep them healthy you should have room for a wheel too that they can run on.
Some people simply choose to use an aquarium for their gerbils home. Yet this often doesnt offer them enough ventilation to be comfortable. Should you decide to do this you really need to think about how you cover the top. Remember that gerbils are creative and they just may be able to escape from your aquarium before you know it. A heavy wire mesh can offer enough air as well as prevent them from getting out.
There are plenty of great looking gerbil cages out there that have accessories you can attach to them. This means you can offer tunnels and fun areas for your gerbil to get to. With a basic aquarium you just wont be able to do this for them. Some people keep the attachments on all the time while others only put them in place now and then to give their gerbil a place to roam while they clean out the rest of the cage.
While cleaning the cage for your gerbil wont be pleasant it has to be done. If you only have one gerbil in there it can be done about twice a month. It is a good idea to mark it on the calendar so you know when it is time. If you have more than one gerbil in the living quarters though you should tend to it weekly.
It is recommended that you keep a small amount of the old bedding materials for the gerbil. This way it will reduce the stress of adjusting to the new environment again. You can use plain soap and water to wipe everything down but many people prefer to use vinegar. Make sure you clean the toys that the gerbil places with as well as the food dish and water bottle each time.
