Suitable cages for Gerbils

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

The Gerbil is a real rodent and a ground animal! It is therefore important that the cage is 100% gnawing-proof and not too high. In addition, they are social group animals and need a lot of space to dig, jump and play. The Gerbil cage must therefore be suitable for at least two Gerbils and have a size of at least 100 x 50 cm. The Gerbil enclosure 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 paws 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 mode of movement.

What is a good Gerbil Cage or Terrarium?

Gerbils are real rodents! Their enclosure must therefore be gnawing-proof , otherwise they will gnaw their way into freedom! In addition, Gerbils are particularly good climbers and jumpers, so the enclosure must be well closed. An aquarium is absolutely 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 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 for optimal air circulation. Here is a detailed explanation of how this system works in practice:

1. Air grille at the top

A striking feature of our terrariums is the air grille that extends over the entire length of the top. This grille acts as the outlet for warm air in the terrarium. Warm air tends to rise, and this grille provides an outlet for that warm air. It ensures that the heated air can escape, so that the climate in the terrarium does not become too warm.

2. Protected Grille at the Front

At the front of the terrarium there is another grille that also covers the entire length. This grille acts as the intake point for fresh air from outside the terrarium. What is essential here is that this grille is protected with a gnaw-resistant profile, so 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 top grille at the top of the terrarium.

4. Air circulation

Thanks to this natural thermosiphon circulation principle, continuous air circulation is created. This means that the warm, used air in the terrarium is exhausted through the top grille, while fresh air from outside is drawn in through the low, gnaw-resistant grille at the front. This creates a continuous exchange of air, allowing fresh air to enter the terrarium and used air to be removed.

The Benefits of Our Ventilation System

Our ventilation system offers numerous benefits, not only for the residents 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 accumulating, keeping the indoor environment fresh and pleasant.

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

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

Single Top Grille versus Double Top and Bottom Grille

A question that often arises 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 an enclosed space is driven by natural convection, where warm air rises and cold air falls. In the case of a single top grille, air circulation cannot be sufficiently stimulated.

A system with two grilles, namely a top and bottom grille, ensures more controlled and efficient air circulation. 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 air circulation and adequate protection against escape or gnawing, a single top grille may be beneficial. If safety and control over air circulation are more important, a dual grille system may be preferable.

Is a Wire 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 higher. Preference is given to a deep substrate so that the Gerbils can dig.

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

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

What is the best Gerbil enclosure?

The very best Gerbil enclosure is a terrarium with a high base that provides sufficient ground cover for digging. A terrarium is gnaw-resistant and well sealed. However, it is very important that the terrarium has good ventilation so that the humidity cannot rise too much. Gerbils are desert animals that cannot tolerate excessive humidity. If the humidity rises too much due to a lack or too few grilles, Gerbils can develop skin fungus or have respiratory problems. The humidity can be measured with a hygrometer .