Algerian gerbils as pets (Gerbillus nanus) – care, housing & feeding

Algerian gerbil as a pet (Gerbillus nanus)

The Algerian gerbil (scientific name: Gerbillus nanus ) is a small, lightning-fast desert dweller that's primarily kept as a spectator . They're active, curious, and—with patience—can easily get used to your hand, but they remain agile animals that prefer to choose when to make contact.

On this page, you'll find out what to consider when keeping Algerian gerbils: keeping them together, choosing the best habitat, substrate and sand, nutrition, and smart enrichment. Conveniently, you'll also find direct shopping links to the relevant categories. Specialist since 2011.

Characteristics of the Algerian gerbil

Algerian gerbils are crepuscular and nocturnal . During the day, they like to sleep in their own burrows or nesting areas, and they only become truly active after sunset. Therefore, you'll often see them indoors most often in the early evening and later in the day.

Tip: Don't expect a "cuddly toy." An Algerian gerbil might get used to your presence and come sniff your hand, but most animals don't enjoy being picked up or petted.

Keeping together: rather not alone

In the wild, many Gerbillus species live close together in colonies, but often with their own burrow and territory. Therefore, peace and quiet in the enclosure are especially important.

• Preferably: a pair or small group that has been used to each other from a young age (e.g. littermates).
• Introducing adult animals is often a hassle; only undertake this if you are experienced and always with a plan B (an additional enclosure).
• If you don't want litters: choose a group of the same sex .

Always watch for signs of serious distress (biting, clamping, blood/injuries). In that case, separation is the safest option.

Accommodation & dimensions

A glass terrarium or aquarium with a well-fitting mesh lid is usually the most practical. Wire cages are often less suitable because substrate flies out and drafts develop more easily.

Place the enclosure in a quiet location (no direct sunlight, no drafts). Keep the temperature above 20°C for smaller species and prevent them from cooling down too quickly at night.

Ground cover: digging is a basic need

Algerian gerbils are real diggers . Therefore, provide a thick layer of substrate that allows for burrows. A mix often works best (structure and firmness).

• Preferably choose a low-dust bedding and add structure (e.g. hay/straw/paper material).
• For the nest: hay, straw, tissues or shredded paper.
• Avoid “cotton wool/fibre” and loose, stringy textiles (legs can get caught).

Practical: always place heavy decorations (stones, ceramics) on the ground and then place ground cover around it, so that nothing can shift when digging underneath.

Sand bath: essential for the coat

Gerbils need plenty of sand to roll in and groom their fur. Without sand, their fur gets greasy faster, which can cause heat management problems.

Diet: lean, high in fiber and not too fatty

Algerian gerbils are adapted to a meager diet and will gain weight relatively quickly if the diet is too fatty. A good foundation is a complete gerbil food , supplemented with a small amount of low-fat seeds .

• Avoid fatty mixes (such as many canary/parrot foods) and give sunflower seeds only as a rare treat.
• Greens: small amounts (e.g., leafy greens, bell peppers, a small piece of carrot). Build up gradually.
• Fruit: sparingly (can quickly become too sweet).
• Animal protein : a few times a week (e.g. crickets/grasshoppers/buffalos; mealworms sparingly).

Water: Always offer fresh water, preferably from a drinking bottle . Make sure the spout is positioned so it can't be buried.

Furnishings & enrichment: tunnels, climbing and foraging

Algerian gerbils are curious and energetic. Set up their enclosure so they can choose: dig, hide, climb, and search.

• Hiding places: multiple houses/dens so that each animal has somewhere to hide.
• Tunnels & pipes: safe material (ceramic, wood, sturdy plastic/PVC) and always stably installed.
• Foraging: scatter food (partly), use foraging toys and hide spots in the sand.
• Running wheel: choose a solid wheel (no bars) and a guide size of around Ø 25 cm .

Feel free to vary the materials or layout, but don't change everything at once. Small adjustments keep things interesting without creating clutter.

Care & handling

Gerbils aren't meant to be handled often. If you still want to establish contact, work with calmness, routine, and rewards.

• Get them used to your hand in the enclosure (possibly with a small piece of food).
• Preferably pick up from below (hands held above feel threatening).
• If necessary, use a tube/jar to move them safely.
• Never lift by the tail ; the tail may be damaged.

Shopping links: everything for Algerian gerbils