Can a gerbil tank be too big?
The current thinking among gerbil fanciers is that large tank size should not cause a problem as long as the tank is not divided into separate living quarters (so it’s not recommended to attach two smaller tanks together with a tube to provide more living space).
Why is my gerbil wobbling?
It is quite likely that it is old age causing her to wobbly. Another possibility is an ear infection but that often causes the gerbil to have a head tilt and to walk in circles. There could also be an underlying problem like an internal tumour. That’s what caused my gerbil Sprogley to become wobbly.
Can gerbils be kept in a tank?
For many gerbils, a 20-gallon fish tanks makes a great home, or you may choose a plastic gerbil home available in most pet stores. Don’t choose a rounded tank, though, because gerbils like to curl up in corners. Just as with most pets, your gerbil’s home can never be too large.
Is 20 gallons enough for 2 gerbils?
While previously 5-gallons per gerbil was considered adequate, now the rule of thumb is 10-gallons of space per gerbil. So, if you have a pair of gerbils, a 20-gallon cage—or an average base of 12 inches by 30 inches—is a good minimum, she adds.
Why do gerbils lean to one side?
Head tilt. A tendency to go round in circles or hold its head in a tilted position suggest an inner ear problem. It could be an infection, so antibiotic treatment is a good precaution. However, the cause is more likely to be a small cyst-like growth in the ear.
Do gerbil tanks need a lid?
“It also keeps the bedding inside to keep things clean.” If you decide on an aquarium or terrarium, you will need a mesh or wire lid securely fitted on top to provide air circulation. This also prevents your gerbils from jumping out of the cage and keeps any housecats from preying on your critters.
Is a 20 gallon tank good for gerbils?
A 20 gallon is the best size for 2 gerbils, but the more space you can give them to play or run around the bettter. So if you can get a 30 or 40 gallon then go for it!
Is a 20 gallon tank big enough for a gerbil?
Can 2 gerbils live in a 10 gallon tank?
Choose an aquarium the right size for the number of gerbils you plan to keep. Keep one or two gerbils in a 10-gallon aquarium, three in a 15-gallon aquarium, four or five in a 20-gallon aquarium and six in a 30-gallon aquarium.
Is my gerbil stressed?
Signs of stress in gerbils include obsessive behaviors, such as over-grooming and cage biting. Gerbils may be more aggressive, irritable, or hide excessively. Foot stomping and vocalizations, such as squeaking and teeth chattering, can be stress-induced. Some gerbils will have seizures when stressed.
How can you tell if a gerbil is dehydrated?
Gerbils can go one day without any ill effect. If gerbils go longer than 24 hours without water they will start to show signs of dehydration. You may see them licking the wall of an aquarium or other surfaces trying to lick up moisture. They may dig under their water bottle, bang it around, or chew on it.
What is gerbil head tilt?
Why do gerbils run in circles?
Gerbils with head tilt will often walk or run in a continuous circle. With the imbalance that causes a head tilt, your gerbil won’t be able to walk or run in a straight line. If you notice your gerbil moving this way, keep an eye on it until you can get it to the vet.
What do you put at the bottom of a gerbil cage?
Because gerbils like to dig and burrow, a cage that is filled with at least 4 inches of bedding is ideal….Fill the cage with 4 inches of bedding.
- Use absorbent bedding such as recycled paper bedding or dust-free Aspen shavings.
- You can also use plain, shredded paper that does not have any newsprint on it.
Is a 20 gallon tank good for 2 gerbils?
A 20 gallon is the best size for 2 gerbils, but the more space you can give them to play or run around the bettter.
How can I tell if my gerbil is depressed?
The signs of a depressed gerbil include lack of activity, too much sleep, bar chewing, and floor scratching. Gerbils become unhappy when other gerbils die if their enclosure is small or they’re stressed. You can help a depressed gerbil to recover by spending time with your pet and showing them affection.