Gerbil

Specific needs

• A social life (in a compatible group)
• A deep substrate to burrow in
• Activity and exploration

Feeding

• A gerbil-specific food mix
• Few fatty foods (sunflower seeds only in moderation)
• Clean water

Habitat & environment

• A tank or deep tray with plenty of bedding to burrow in
• A suitable wheel and hiding places
• A dry spot, away from heat

Prevention

• Keeping an eye on behaviour and skin
• Regular cleaning
• A veterinary opinion if anything seems wrong

Vaccination

There is no routine vaccination for gerbils. Prevention comes down to housing, diet and observation.

When to see a vet?

• See the vet in case of a wound, a lump or listlessness
• Act quickly, given how small they are

At the AuFuret practice

• Exotic pet medicine
• Minor surgery
• Laboratory

Dr Danielle Frei Perrin regularly appears as a veterinary expert on Swiss public broadcasting (RTS) and in leading French-speaking Swiss media.