How do I keep my gerbils safe during holidays and guests?
Follow these 5 steps to ensure your gerbils stay comfortable and safe during holiday visits and guests.
Summer Heat Safety
Gerbils thrive in temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C), so during summer, it's crucial to keep their cage in a cool, shaded area. Avoid placing the cage near direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators. Use a room thermometer to monitor the temperature and ensure it doesn't exceed 75°F (24°C).
Keep the cage in a well-ventilated room but not in an air-conditioned area, as the cold can be harmful. Provide plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration, as hot weather can increase their water needs.
- Keep the cage in a cool, shaded area.
- Monitor the temperature with a room thermometer.
- Provide fresh water daily.
- Avoid placing the cage near heat sources.
- Keep the room temperature below 75°F (24°C).
Winter Temperature and Daylight Adjustments
In winter, temperatures can drop, so it's important to maintain the cage at 65–75°F (18–24°C). Use a heat pad or a heating pad mat placed under one side of the cage to provide warmth. Ensure the heat source is covered and not directly touching the substrate to prevent burns.
Reduce daylight hours gradually by using a timer to simulate the natural daylight changes. Gerbils are active during the day, so a 12-hour light cycle is ideal. Adjust the light cycle by 15 minutes per week to mimic the seasonal changes.
- Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F (18–24°C) in winter.
- Use a heat pad under one side of the cage.
- Cover the heat pad to prevent burns.
- Gradually adjust the light cycle by 15 minutes per week.
- Simulate a 12-hour light cycle.
Seasonal Hazards to Avoid
Holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can be toxic to gerbils. Keep these plants out of reach or consider using artificial ones.
Guests may bring unfamiliar scents and foods, which can stress your gerbils. Prepare a quiet space away from the main areas of activity.
Fireworks and loud noises can be frightening. Keep the gerbils in a secure, quiet room during fireworks and loud events.
Traveling can be stressful for gerbils. If you're going away, consider a pet sitter or a boarding facility that specializes in small pets.
- Keep holiday plants out of reach.
- Prepare a quiet space for guests.
- Keep gerbils away from fireworks and loud noises.
- Consider pet sitting or boarding facilities for travel.
Holiday and Guest Seasonal Checklist
Before the holiday season, ensure your gerbils have a secure, comfortable cage with all necessary supplies.
Check the temperature in the room where the cage is located to ensure it's within the safe range of 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Provide fresh water and food daily.
Prepare a quiet area for your gerbils to retreat to if they become stressed.
Monitor your gerbils' behavior for signs of stress or illness.
- Check the cage and supplies.
- Monitor the room temperature.
- Provide fresh water and food.
- Prepare a quiet retreat area.
- Monitor for signs of stress or illness.
Keep reading about Gerbil: Gerbil care sheet
Related questions
How can I keep my gerbils cool during summer?
Keep the cage in a cool, shaded area and monitor the temperature with a room thermometer, ensuring it doesn't exceed 75°F (24°C). Provide fresh water daily.
What should I do if I'm traveling and can't take my gerbils with me?
Consider a pet sitter or a boarding facility that specializes in small pets. Ensure the facility provides a comfortable environment with proper temperature and lighting.
How can I prevent my gerbils from becoming stressed during the holidays?
Keep holiday plants out of reach, prepare a quiet area for them, and keep them away from fireworks and loud noises.
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.