Care guide
Caring for gerbils
Gerbils live 2 to 4 years, are active in the day, and need a same-sex companion and deep bedding to dig tunnels. Desert animals, they need very little water and hate damp.
Pairs and groups
Keep gerbils in same-sex pairs or small groups introduced while young. Adults who don't know each other usually fight.
A tank to dig in
A large glass tank with a mesh lid, or a tank topper, works best: fill it with at least 20 cm of bedding mixed with hay so they can tunnel. Give a sand bath and plenty of cardboard to shred.
Health and handling
Never pick a gerbil up by its tail; the skin comes away. Scoop them up in cupped hands.
Some gerbils have brief seizures when startled. They usually recover on their own; keep things calm and mention it to your vet.
Local rules
Gerbils aren't allowed as pets in California or Hawaii.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 13, 2026.