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Of all the mini-pets, gerbils seem to be the least likely
to bite. Small children can easily handle them. Since gerbils
are desert animals from Mongolia, in the wild, they need very
little water. They carry this over into captivity. This results
in minimal waste elimination; hence, little or no odor provided
reasonable care is given to hygiene.
The gerbil's life span is four years. Sexual maturity occurs
at three to five months and the gestation period is 24 days.
Gerbils mate for life and the removal of mates and other adults
at birth is not necessary, provided the cage area is adequate.
The litter number is one to twelve, the eyes opening in 16
to 20 days. The average weight of the adult gerbil is 75 to
85 grams (approximately 1/6 of a pound). Diet should consist
of Gerbil pellets (commercial mouse or rat chow is adequate
if supplemented). Vitamins are recommended in the fresh drinking
water at the rate of one to two drops per three ounces of
water.
Optimum room temperature should be between 68° and 75°F.
Rapid change in temperature is conducive to respiratory disease.
Proper litter should be provided for these burrowing animals
will bloody their noses trying to dig under the hard floor
of the cage.
Signs of disease include diarrhea, lack of appetite, bloody
urine, discharge from eyes or nose, lumps or swellings anywhere
on face or body, lethargy, hair loss and any other abnormal
symptoms. At the first signs of disease, an appointment should
be made with your Petland small animal specialist to see your
pet before serious problems arise. Since mini-pets are small,
keep them safely out of harm's way. Dogs and cats will make
short work of them if they can get to them. Because of the
short gestation period and the social behavior of a pair of
gerbils and their youngsters, an interesting educational experience
is the reward for the family that keeps them as pets.
In order to provide a happy, healthy atmosphere for your
gerbil, Petland recommends some necessary as well as fun accessories.
Visit your local Petland today and consult with a Pet Counselor
to insure you are providing these fun and essential items
your gerbil needs. |
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Safari Stan