When it comes to the world of small pets, gerbils hold a special place in many hearts. With their adorable brown eyes and tiny twitching noses, it is no wonder gerbils have become such beloved companions. As pet owners, you want to provide the best care possible for your furry friends, which includes fulfilling their exercise needs. At the top of the list of tools for gerbil exercise is the wheel. Choosing the right wheel may seem like a simple task, but it’s more complex than you might think. Hence, today, we delve into the factors to consider when selecting a wheel for your gerbil’s exercise needs.
Material Matters
When it comes to choosing a wheel, the material it’s made from is a crucial factor. A wheel made from a safe, sturdy material is essential for your gerbil’s well-being. Gerbils are known for their chewing habits, so it’s critical that the wheel is made from non-toxic material.
Plastic wheels are common, but they can pose a risk if your gerbil decides to chew on them. On the other hand, metal wheels, while durable, can be potentially harmful if they have rungs or open bars, which can lead to injuries. An excellent material option for gerbil wheels is wood, especially untreated hardwood, as it’s safe for chewing and can withstand hours of running.
Size and Comfort of the Wheel
Just as important as the material is the size of the wheel. Gerbils, though small, require a wheel that is large enough to prevent back strain. Unlike hamsters, gerbils have longer tails that they use for balance. Therefore, a smaller wheel can force them into an unnatural running position, potentially leading to health problems down the line.
The comfort of your gerbil is also paramount. Opt for a wheel with a solid running surface, as a wire or mesh wheel can lead to paw injuries. Also, an enclosed wheel design, like a tank wheel, can provide a sense of safety for your pet while they exercise.
Wheel Safety Precautions
Safety should always be a priority when it comes to your pet. Just like guinea pigs and chinchillas, gerbils are small and delicate creatures, so ensuring their wheel is safe to use is essential.
Avoid wheels with gaps or spaces where a gerbil could potentially get stuck or injured. Similarly, stay clear of wheels with spokes, as these can cause injuries if your pet’s foot or tail gets caught. Instead, look for a wheel with solid sides and a solid running surface.
Also, make sure the wheel is securely attached to the cage to prevent accidents. A loose wheel could potentially tip over while your gerbil is running, causing stress or injury.
Easy to Clean
As pet owners, you know pet care doesn’t stop at feeding and playtime. Cleaning is also a big part of the job. Therefore, a wheel that is easy to clean makes your job easier and ensures a hygienic environment for your pet.
Gerbils, like most small pets, will often use their wheel as a toilet, so regular cleaning is necessary. A detachable wheel allows you to clean it thoroughly and ensure no waste material is left behind, which could lead to health issues.
Type of Wheel
There is a variety of wheel types available for gerbils: standard wheels, track wheels, flying saucers, and tank wheels. Your choice will depend on your gerbil’s preference and the amount of space in their cage.
Standard wheels are the most common. They are usually easy to attach to a cage and come in various sizes. Track wheels are similar but have a track for the gerbil to run on, providing a more natural running experience.
Flying saucers are a fun alternative where the gerbil runs on the inside of the wheel, while tank wheels are larger and provide more space for running.
Whichever wheel type you choose, remember the most crucial factors: safety, material, size, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Armed with this knowledge, you will be well-equipped to choose the perfect wheel for your gerbil’s exercise needs. Always remember, your decisions as pet owners significantly impact the overall health and happiness of your beloved gerbil.
Accessories and Basic Furnishings for Gerbil’s Cage
Choosing the perfect wheel is indeed a crucial part of your gerbil’s exercise regime, but it doesn’t stop there. The wheel should be a part of an exciting array of accessories and basic furnishings in your gerbil’s cage.
A gerbil’s cage should be a dynamic and enriching environment. Apart from the wheel, there should be elements of ground cover, gnawing material, hiding places, and platforms ladders. These elements provide your gerbil with multiple activities, preventing boredom and promoting mental well-being.
Ground cover is vital as it mimics the gerbil’s natural habitat and acts as a substrate for burrowing. You can use a paper-based bedding as it is safe and comfortable for your little pet. Gnawing material, like wooden blocks, can help keep your gerbil’s teeth in good condition.
Water bowls or drinking bottles can be used for hydration. However, most pet owners prefer bottles water as it is cleaner and reduces the risk of contamination. Always ensure that your gerbil has access to clean, fresh water.
Other exercise options, apart from the exercise wheel, could include tunnels and platforms ladders for climbing. These additions promote healthy physical activity and mental stimulation.
Seasonally, you could also consider switching up your gerbil’s habitat with summer products and winter products. For instance, a cooling stone can be a welcome accessory in the summer, while a warm hideout can be a great addition in winter.
Remember, the exercise wheel should be the star of the cage, offering a perfect place for running and playing foraging activities.
Importance of Transportation Boxes and Cleaning Supplies
Just like any other pet, your gerbil may need a trip to the vet, or you might need to transport it to a new location. For these instances, transport boxes come in handy. Keep in mind that transport boxes should be well ventilated and secure to prevent your pet from escaping.
Cleaning supplies are necessary to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your gerbil. Besides the regular cage cleaning, you also need to clean the wheel, water bottles, and feeding bowls.
Finally, don’t forget to reward your gerbil with snacks dried fruits or vegetables and order stock of their favorite food to keep them happy and satisfied.
Conclusion
In conclusion, providing for your gerbil’s exercise needs goes beyond choosing the right running wheel. It involves creating a stimulating environment with the right basic furnishings and taking necessary precautions for your pet’s safety.
Remember to choose a wheel made of safe, sturdy material and ensure it’s of the right size for your gerbil’s comfort. Maintain a clean environment for your pet and keep in mind their needs when choosing the cage accessories.
Just like guinea pigs and other pet rodents, gerbils have specific needs that must be met to ensure their health and well-being. As a responsible pet owner, you should be well-versed with these needs and strive to meet them.
Whether you’re looking for an exercise wheel, transport boxes, or winter products for your gerbil, always look for top-rated stock from reputable pet supply stores. This way, you can be sure of getting the best quality products for your pet.
With these guidelines, you are better equipped to take care of your pet gerbil and provide it with the exercise it needs. Happy pet parenting!
