What Can Gerbils Eat?
What Can Gerbils Eat Gerbils are entertaining and lovable animals, bringing joy and excitement to any household. But with the privilege of having them comes the responsibility of caring for them and providing them with all the nutrition they need. To keep your gerbils thriving and healthy, you must know what they can and can’t eat. Below we have provided more information about what gerbils should and shouldn’t consume.
Foods Gerbils Can Eat
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- Gerbil mix: A gerbil mix is a complete food containing all the essential nutrients and vitamins that your gerbil needs. Any gerbil mix should contain a pellet or seed blend and alfalfa.
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- Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, carrots, spinach, and peas can give your gerbils extra nutrition and flavors. However, you should limit the amount to no more than a few times a week.
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- Eggs: Protein-rich hardboiled eggs can make a great occasional treat for your gerbil. Avoid feeding them more than thrice a week, though.
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- Insects: Occasional treats of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and wax worms will increase your gerbil’s protein intake and provide them with vital vitamins and minerals.
Foods Gerbils Should Not Eat
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- Cheese, yogurt, milk: Your gerbil should not consume these dairy products under any circumstance. Excess dairy products will give your gerbils diarrhea and upset stomachs.
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- Meat: Meat products will be hard for them to digest and lack necessary nutrients for their small bodies.
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- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine which is highly toxic to gerbils and should never be given as a treat.
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- Sugary treats: Sugary treats like cake and candy are an absolute no-no to gerbils as they contain empty calories with no benefit.
It is always best to consult a veterinarian before making any changes in your gerbil’s diet. Your vet will tell you which fruits and vegetables are safe for your gerbil to consume, and in what amounts. Additionally, they can provide you with the best diet advice for your gerbil.
