Rules can still vary by city, county or species. Check your state before buying.
Laws change. Verify with your state wildlife agency before purchasing.
Check your state's rules →Housing and enclosure setup
A tank or tank-topper of at least 20 gallons for a pair, with 8 inches or more of bedding mixed with hay so tunnels hold shape. Add a sand bath and a solid wheel of 8 inches or more.
Diet
A gerbil seed mix or pellet, scatter-fed, with small pieces of vegetables and the odd mealworm. Sunflower seeds are high fat — treats only.
Health basics
Watch for seizures (often inherited and usually harmless, but note them), tail slip, tumours in older gerbils, and a red nose from sore skin or stress.
Lifespan
Typically 3-4 years.
Beginner tips
Keep same-sex pairs introduced young. Never lift by the tail.
Gerbils are banned in California and Hawaii. Check your state before buying.
General guidance only. Nothing here replaces an exotics or avian vet who knows your animal.
Track it instead of guessing
Log weights, feedings, health events and care reminders for free in the keeper tools.
Notice an error? Contact me and I'll fix it.