What temperature should my gerbil's cage be set at in the summer?
Keep your gerbil's cage between 65–75°F (18–24°C) during the summer to ensure their comfort and health.
Basking/Warm Side vs. Cool Side
Maintain a basking/warm side of 75°F (24°C) and a cool side of 65°F (18°C) in the gerbil's cage. This gradient allows them to regulate their body temperature by moving between the two sides.
Gerbils are small and sensitive to heat, so it's crucial to provide a temperature gradient rather than a single, uniform temperature. This natural behavior helps them avoid overheating.
- Set the warm side at 75°F (24°C)
- Maintain the cool side at 65°F (18°C)
- Ensure a 10°F (6°C) temperature difference
Humidity Range
In the summer, humidity should be kept between 30–50% to prevent heat stress and respiratory issues.
Humidity levels can fluctuate with the season, so it's important to monitor and adjust them regularly.
- Maintain humidity at 30–50%
- Use a hygrometer to measure humidity
- Adjust humidity with a water bottle or humidifier if necessary
Lighting
Provide 12–14 hours of natural or artificial light per day. This simulates their natural environment and helps regulate their circadian rhythm.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause overheating.
- 12–14 hours of light per day
- Use a timer to control the light cycle
- Position the cage away from direct sunlight
Controlling Variables
Use a heat source on a thermostat to maintain the warm side temperature. A ceramic heat emitter or a heating pad can be placed under half of the cage.
Control humidity with a deep substrate like aspen shavings and ensure good ventilation. Use a water bottle to provide a humidity level of 30–50%.
Place a thermometer at the animal level to accurately measure the temperature inside the cage.
- Use a thermostat-controlled heat source
- Maintain a deep substrate for humidity control
- Ensure good ventilation in the cage
- Measure temperature at the animal level
Observable Signs
If the temperature is too high, you may notice your gerbils seeking shade, panting, or having difficulty breathing.
If the temperature is too low, they may be huddled together, shivering, or showing signs of stress.
Excessive panting, salivation, or lethargy can indicate humidity issues.
- Seeking shade or panting at 80°F (27°C) or above
- Huddling or shivering at 60°F (15°C) or below
- Excessive panting or salivation at humidity above 60%
Keep reading about Gerbil: Gerbil care sheet
Related questions
How often should I check the temperature in the cage?
Check the temperature at least twice a day, especially during hot summer days.
What should I do if the temperature in the cage is too high?
Move the heat source further away, increase ventilation, or use a fan to cool the area.
How can I tell if the humidity is too low?
If the substrate is dry and your gerbils are not using their sand bath, the humidity is likely too low.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your gerbil is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.