The Gerbil’s Nest

Mushroom, the gerbil, checking out the flashlight I’m using to light this photograph.

Are Gerbils for You?

If you’re thinking about whether or not gerbils are right for you or your child as a pet, there are a few things that you will need to consider.  Indeed, they are extremely easy pets to care for, however, they are still living creatures with specific requirements. 

For one thing, it is important to note that gerbils are a responsibility that will last for several years.  On average, a healthy gerbil will live between 2 and a half to 5 years.  Therefore, you need to expect that for about 3 years or more—not just the first few months—you will need to continuously care for your gerbil.

You also need to recognize that even in the best conditions and with the best gerbil care, your gerbil might get sick. Gerbils feel sick and feel pain just as we do, so it can only be considered cruel not to seek medical attention.  Therefore, even though you may have spent less than $8 on the gerbil, you will need to be prepared to spend several times that amount for veterinary care in the case of illness or injury.  These visits are rare, though. For more information on medical care for gerbils, visit the Gerbil Veterinarians page of this website.

It is also important to remember that you will need to keep up both daily and weekly/bimonthly responsibilities with your gerbil ownership.  Therefore, if you travel a lot and cannot bring the gerbil with you, or won’t have someone to take care of the gerbil, then keeping the gerbil will probably not fit in with your lifestyle.

Otherwise, you’re all set to start learning how to prepare for and keep your gerbil pet!