Gerbils are small cute rodents that can be found in arid and desert regions of Africa, India, and Asia. Most domesticated pet gerbils are originally from Mongolia. Gerbils are kept as pets all around the world and they can only survive if they are given proper care and complete nutrition.
A perfect diet for gerbils is a combination of various commercially prepared pellets along with fruits, fresh seeds, grains, and vegetables.
What do gerbils eat for survival in the wild?
In their natural environments, gerbils gather food during the daytime and eat a variety of things such as grass seeds, nuts, berries, and hay like timothy and alfalfa for survival in nature.
Because of their diverse natural diets of fruits, grains, and vegetables, gerbils are relatively easy to feed when kept as pets.
Specially formulated pellets
In the wild, gerbils eat food like fruits, seeds, and grains that they find in their environment. However, gerbil owners do not need to search in nature for a nutritionally balanced diet for their pets.
There are specially formulated pellets for gerbils that are readily available at most pet shops and retail stores with pet sections. These pellets consist of a variety of seed and grain ingredients that are combined to form small pieces just right for little gerbil mouths. These pellets also contain the necessary proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins to provide gerbils with a balanced diet. Pet gerbils love these special pellets that have been formulated for their tastes and nutritional requirements. These rodents also enjoy a variety of pellets just like they do in the wild, providing them with a mix of grains, seeds, vegetables, and fruits that will keep your cute pets happy and satisfied.
Gerbil mix
Gerbils love variety and seeds. There is a commercial mixture known as gerbil mix that is ideal for them. These packaged seeds often come in several varieties, including pumpkin, alfalfa, flax, sunflower, and wheat. Some even have cereal for added nutrition. Gerbils usually prefer larger seeds such as sunflower and pumpkin.
Fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are also an essential part of a gerbil’s diet. They can eat almost any type of fruit and vegetable because, in the wild, gerbils have easy access to berries, leafy greens, and root vegetables. Carrots, broccoli, and lettuce are some of the low-fat foods that are best for gerbils. They also enjoy various fruits such as peaches and bananas, but too many of these treats can lead to significant health concerns in gerbils. Therefore, gerbils should only eat small pieces of fruits and vegetables once a day.
Diet considerations
Gerbils love to eat, but in the wild, they have limited access to food. When kept as pets, they can overeat all the time if food is available in unlimited quantities. Therefore, certain foods should be limited to prevent these small cute rodents from becoming obese or overweight. Foods such as sunflower seeds, peanuts, and commercial cereals should be given in moderation.
Freshwater
Just like any other animal, gerbils require freshwater. You can give them water in a bottle or a sturdy bowl. These small rodents always enjoy plenty of clean, fresh water.
Are you thinking of having gerbils as pets? Well, then keep these things in consideration for their diet. Providing them with excellent, nutrient-rich food will keep them away from health problems and ensure a long life for these cute rodents.
Image Source: Pauline Vogelaar / Shutterstock
