Suitable cages for Gerbils

You can easily and quickly order Gerbil cages and Terrariums at DRD Rodent Shop ^® The Gerbil Webshop for your Gerbil!

The Gerbil is a real rodent and a ground animal! That is why it is important that the cage is 100% gnawing-proof and not too high. In addition, they are social group animals and they need a lot of space to dig, jump and play. The Gerbil cage should therefore be suitable for at least two Gerbils and have a size of at least 100 x 50 cm. The Gerbil residence does not have to be high, but should above all have a spacious surface. At DRD Gerbil Webshop we have taken this into account, so that you can choose a suitable Gerbil cage without any worries!

Gerbils are not naturally good climbers like Mice or Rats . They have less agile legs and are better adapted to digging and running on the ground. In the wild, Gerbils live on the ground, they do not climb, but dig the most complex tunnel systems underground, which is also their main way of moving.

What is a good Gerbil Cage or Terrarium?

Gerbils are real rodents! Their habitat must therefore be gnaw-proof , otherwise they will gnaw their way to freedom! Gerbils are also particularly good climbers and jumpers, so the habitat must be well sealed. An aquarium is perfectly fine, but it must have a gnaw-proof lid.

The Importance of Air Circulation in Terrariums

Air circulation in terrariums is vital for the well-being of small rodents. It affects air quality, humidity, temperature and helps to minimize odors. It is not only important for the comfort of the animals, but it also plays a crucial role in preventing health problems. Good air circulation can help you reduce the risk of respiratory infections and prevent parasites, such as mites and lice.

How the Air Circulation System Works

The Black Scape terrarium is designed with optimum air circulation in mind. Here is a detailed explanation of how this system works in practice:

1. Air Vent on the Top

A striking feature of our terrariums is the air vent that extends over the entire length of the top. This vent acts as the outlet for warm air in the terrarium. Warm air tends to rise, and this vent provides an outlet for that warm air. It allows the warmed air to escape, preventing the climate in the terrarium from becoming too warm.

2. Protected Front Grille

At the front of the terrarium is another grille that also covers the entire length. This grille acts as the inlet point for fresh air from outside the terrarium. What is essential here is that this grille is protected with a gnaw-proof profile, so that your pets cannot damage it.

3. Natural Convection

The ventilation system uses the principle of natural convection. This means that warm air rises while cold air sinks. This phenomenon is known as thermosiphon. The warm air in the terrarium rises to the upper grille at the top of the terrarium.

4. Air circulation

This natural thermosiphon circulation principle creates a continuous air circulation. This means that the warm, used air in the terrarium is discharged through the upper grille, while fresh air is drawn in from outside through the low, rodent-proof grille at the front. This creates a continuous air exchange, bringing fresh air into the terrarium and removing used air.

The Benefits of Our Ventilation System

Our ventilation system offers numerous advantages, not only for the inhabitants of the terrarium, but also for yourself:

• Healthy Air Quality : The constant air circulation ensures healthy air quality in the terrarium, which significantly reduces the risk of respiratory infections.

• Minimizing Odors : It prevents odors from building up, keeping the indoor environment fresh and pleasant.

• Preventing Parasites : Thanks to effective air circulation, humidity is reduced, which significantly reduces the chance of pests such as parasites, mites, lice and the like. These pests thrive in a humid environment.

• Temperature Control : The ventilation system also helps regulate the temperature in the terrarium, preventing overheating.

Single Top Grille vs. Double Top and Bottom Grille

A question that often comes up is whether a single top grille that covers the entire top is better than a system with two grilles, namely both a top and a bottom grille. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages.

A single top grille can provide maximum air circulation, but this is often accompanied by less suction power. This is because air circulation in a closed space is driven by natural convection, where warm air rises and cold air sinks. In the case of a single top grille, air circulation cannot be sufficiently stimulated.

A system with two grilles, namely an upper and lower grille, provides a more controlled and efficient air circulation. The air circulation is stimulated by the natural movement of warm and cold air, with the lower opening providing the intake of cool air and the upper grille removing the warm air.

The choice between these systems depends on your specific needs and priorities. If your priority is maximum airflow and adequate protection against escape or gnawing, a single top grille may be beneficial. If safety and control over airflow are more important, a dual grille system may be preferable.

Is a Bar Cage Suitable for Gerbils?

No, a barred cage is not suitable as a Gerbil enclosure. Gerbils are ground animals and real diggers who like to dig tunnels. Although they jump and climb quite well, the cage does not have to go up high. A deep base is preferred so that the Gerbils can dig.

Is a combination of bars and glass suitable as a gerbil enclosure?

Yes, we believe that this is certainly a good combination. The condition is that the bottom tray provides space for a lot of ground cover, at least 30 cm, so that the Gerbils can dig nicely. The big advantage of a trellis section is the ventilation. Gerbils are desert animals that are used to a lower humidity. It is therefore very important that the accommodation has good ventilation to prevent excessive humidity and thus prevent the chance of skin fungus.

What is the best Gerbil habitat?

The best Gerbil habitat is a terrarium with a high base that has enough ground cover to dig in. A terrarium is gnaw-proof and well sealed. However, it is very important that the terrarium has good ventilation so that the humidity does not rise too high. Gerbils are desert animals that cannot tolerate too high humidity. If the humidity rises too high due to a lack of or too few grids, Gerbils can develop skin fungus or have respiratory problems. The humidity can be measured with a hygrometer .