Small, fluffy and cute, gerbils seem like good pets. They do make fine friends for older kids, but they’re not the best pets for young kids. Gerbils are fragile. If a young child squeezes or drops one, the gerbil could be hurt. They’re usually gentle, but they bite if they’re scared.
Unlike hamsters, though, gerbils are awake during the day so you can play with them. In fact, they like to be played with everyday. It’s also best to have two gerbils so they don’t get lonely. Gerbils are very clean animals, but you must clean their cage every week.
Fun Facts about Gerbils for Kids
- In the wild, gerbils live in the desert.
- Gerbils have teeth that always grow. Sometimes they need the teeth trimmed by a vet.
- You can’t own a gerbil if you live in California or Hawaii. It’s illegal.
- Gerbils sometimes carry diseases that humans can get.
- Gerbils live 3 to 4 years.
Gerbil Vocabulary
- Fluffy: Puffed up, soft
- Fragile: Easily damaged or hurt
- Lonely: Sad, alone
- Illegal: Against the law
Learn More All About Gerbils
Watch this fun video about pet gerbils:
An education video about how to care for gerbils.
Gerbil Q&A
Question: What do gerbils eat?
Answer: Gerbils eat commercial gerbil food, which contains grains, nuts and seeds. They like fresh apples and carrots.
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Question: Are gerbils smart?
Answer: Gerbils are smart. They like to play, run on exercise wheels or go through tunnels.
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