How Do I Care for a Baby Gerbil?

Caring for any pet is a big responsibility. Pets are dependent on the people who care for them for everything, so meeting their basic needs must be a priority. Providing fresh, healthy food, clean water, and a comfortable place to rest and receive shelter are the basics. When basic needs are met, along with a good dose of love, pets thrive. This is also true of the baby gerbil.

Keep in mind that in the first days of life, the baby gerbil will be cared for by the parents. Gerbils are recognized for taking good care of their babies, called puppies. If there is a problem with the parents, you may need to step in and assist them with providing proper care for their newborns.

If the mother has no interest in caring for her babies, you need to ensure that the puppies are kept warm. A heat lamp on a low setting may be helpful, but don’t put it too close to a baby gerbil. Make sure the heat is not too strong for fragile new pups.

In some cases, scents or odors that the mother gerbil finds offensive may lead her to abandon the baby. Due to this issue, you should always make sure your hands are washed and rinsed thoroughly before handling a baby gerbil. As with any baby animal, it is always important to be extremely careful and gentle.

Another situation in which you may need to assist in caring for a baby gerbil is if the mother is not able to provide proper nourishment for her pup. If one puppy appears smaller than the others, he or she may not be getting enough sustenance. Supplemental feeding may be necessary. Many baby animals can be fed with a clean eyedropper. You may wish to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best type of milk to use and the proper amount to feed the puppy.

If a baby gerbil appears to be sick, it is probably a good idea to separate him or her from the other puppies as well as the parents. Doing so can help prevent the others from becoming ill as well. If you feel the ailment is serious, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for advice. Never try to give animals medicine that is intended for humans unless it is under the direct advice and supervision of a professional.

A baby gerbil thrives in a spacious, secure glass tank or wire cage with a solid floor, as wire floors can injure their tiny feet. The enclosure should be filled with a thick layer of bedding, such as paper-based or aspen shavings, to allow for burrowing. Avoid cedar or pine shavings due to respiratory risks. A nesting area and chew toys should also be provided to mimic their natural environment and support dental health.

Baby gerbils should be fed a balanced diet consisting of gerbil-specific pellets and a small amount of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Fresh water must always be available. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), treats should not exceed 10% of their total diet to prevent obesity and nutritional imbalances.

Gerbils are social animals and require interaction with their own kind for mental well-being. It's best to keep them in same-sex pairs or small groups, especially if they are siblings, to prevent loneliness. Human interaction is also important; handle your baby gerbil gently and frequently to build trust and socialization, but always supervise to prevent accidental falls or injury.

A healthy baby gerbil should be alert, active, and curious. Its eyes should be bright and clear, and its coat should be clean and well-groomed. There should be no signs of diarrhea, which can be a common health issue in young gerbils. Regular, even breathing and a good appetite are also indicators of health. Any deviation from these behaviors warrants a visit to a veterinarian experienced with small rodents.

Signs of stress or unhappiness in a baby gerbil include excessive chewing on the cage bars, over-grooming to the point of creating bald spots, and changes in eating or sleeping habits. A stressed gerbil may also become more aggressive or try to escape frequently. Providing a stimulating environment with plenty of space, hiding spots, and opportunities for exercise can help reduce stress.

Preventive veterinary care for baby gerbils includes regular health checks to monitor growth and development. A vet can also provide advice on proper nutrition, dental care, and parasite control. It's crucial to find a vet who specializes in exotic pets and has experience with gerbils. Early detection of health issues, such as respiratory infections or tumors, can significantly improve treatment outcomes.