Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Taming gerbils: How to handle them safely and pick the right bedding?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Gerbil | Female | 1 month and 7 days old

1. how long to take to tame the gerbils? usually 2.can you grab the young gerbils (5-7weeks) using one hand from above? 3.how often to change the breeding? 4. can tell me more information about the floor covering ? Thanks

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on October 21st, 2018

Thanks for reaching out. Some animal tame better than others. The key is gaining their trust, often with the use of treats. Once they're used to your hand in the cage with slow and deliberate movements, leave the hand flat and allow them to crawl over it. Next your can attempt to lift them from below. Grabbing them from above often results in fear biting. Not sure if your asking about breeding or bedding. The bedding should be spot cleaned daily, as gerbils will often choose a corner to use as a toilet. The flooring should be a solid bottom to prevent leg damage. It can be covered with a softer material such as recycled paper products, which are absorptive and non-toxic. Many of the wood products are aromatic and damage lungs if inhaled over long periods of time. Good luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored