Gerbils are cute little rodents that are great for keeping as pets. They are known for being playful and need a healthy diet to stay active and healthy. You might be wondering, “What do your pet gerbils eat?” if you are a proud gerbil owner. In this article, we will investigate the dietary requirements of gerbils and furnish you with a far reaching guide on “What Do Your Pet Gerbils Eat”. So, let’s get started and find the ideal diet for your pet gerbils!
What Do Your Pet Gerbils Eat
Gerbils are omnivores, which means that they consume both animal and plant foods. The following should be included in their diet:
- Pellets of a Higher Quality: Your gerbil’s diet should be based on commercial gerbil pellets, which contain essential nutrients. Pellets made just for gerbils are best because they have the right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
- The new hay: Because it aids in digestion and provides essential fiber, hay is an essential component of a gerbil’s diet. Gerbils will thrive in Timothy hay or orchard grass hay.
- Fresh Produce: Your gerbils should be fed a variety of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, spinach, and kale. These vegetables give them more vitamins and minerals to help with their health as a whole.
- Grains and seeds: Gerbils adore grains and seeds. Include flaxseed, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds in small amounts in their diet. You can also add grains like millet, oats, and barley for variety.
- Sources of protein: Protein is necessary for gerbil growth and survival. As occasional treats, provide small amounts of cooked, lean meat, boiled eggs, and insects like mealworms.
- Mineral Water: Gerbils need clean, fresh water all the time. To avoid contamination and spills, use a water bottle with a sipper tube.
What shouldn’t your pet gerbils eat?
While knowing what to feed your pet gerbils is important, knowing which foods are bad for them is just as important. Stay away from the following:
- Citrus fruits: Gerbils can have trouble digesting citrus fruits. Grapefruit, oranges, and lemons should not be given to them.
- Foods with salt and sugar: Gerbils are sensitive to foods high in salt and sugar. Avoid candy, chocolate, and salty snacks from them.
- Food Waste: Fat and processed foods should be avoided at all costs. Gerbils shouldn’t eat junk food like chips, cookies, or anything like that.
- Foods that are harmful: Gerbils are toxic to some human foods. They should not be fed chocolate, caffeine-containing products, onions, or garlic.
Questions About Your Gerbil’s Diet
Do gerbils consume fruits?
Gerbils can eat fruits, but only sparingly. As occasional treats, offer small portions of safe fruits like strawberries, apples, and pears.
What quantity of food should I give my gerbils?
One to two tablespoons of pellets, a small handful of fresh vegetables, and one teaspoon of seeds or grains per gerbil are the recommended daily intakes.
Do gerbils consume nuts?
Due to their high fat content, certain nuts, such as hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds, can be eaten by gerbils, but only in very small quantities. Screen their admission and deal nuts as infrequent treats.
Are gerbils in need of vitamins?
A well-balanced diet is usually how gerbils get the vitamins they need. However, if you are concerned, you should talk to a veterinarian, who will be able to suggest vitamin supplements that are appropriate.
Can dairy foods be eaten by gerbils?
Gerbils cannot properly digest dairy products, in fact. Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk can cause digestive issues in animals.
Can gerbils consume bugs?
Yes, gerbils can get their protein from eating crickets or mealworms. However, only a limited supply of these should be provided.
Conclusion
It is essential for your pet gerbils’ overall health to know what to feed them. Keep in mind to provide a well-balanced diet that includes fresh hay, vegetables, seeds, grains, high-quality pellets, and occasionally protein sources. Try not to take care of them unsafe or harmful food sources to guarantee their wellbeing and bliss. You’ll have content and happy gerbils for many years to come if you follow these guidelines and feed them well.