Basic Gerbil Set-Up: Deep Digging Area, Sand Bath, Terrarium & Shopping List (Mongolian Gerbil)

Basic Gerbil Setup – Built for Digging, Tunneling, and Gentle Approach

This basic setup is designed for the Mongolian gerbil : a (mostly) social species that enjoys living together, builds tunnels, and is constantly busy digging , gathering , gnawing , and foraging . The secret to a good gerbil enclosure isn't "as much stuff as possible," but rather a clever structure: a deep, stable digging layer as a foundation, and above that, a quiet "superstructure" with houses, trails, and a sand bath.

Note: There are also gerbil species that require different care (such as the fat-tailed gerbil , which is often kept solitarily). We have separate information for that species: fat-tailed gerbil information .

DRD Rodent Shop® has been a specialist since 2011. This inspiration page shows a practical basic setup with logical zones. Below, you can add and order the products from this basic setup directly.

1) Housing: terrarium & dimensions

For gerbils, ample floor space is more important than height. A terrarium with a high, upright edge is ideal, as it allows for ample digging. Preferably, choose an enclosure with sliding doors at the front so you can approach the animals calmly from the front. A common guideline is a minimum of 100 x 50 cm of floor space for a basic setup (larger = more peaceful, especially with groups). See: suitable gerbil cages/enclosures .

2) Ground cover: deep digging layer

Gerbils are real diggers. Therefore, equip the enclosure with a deep digging layer that can support tunnels. In practice, a layer of about 25–30 cm works very well (deeper is fine, as long as it remains safe and stable). A smart tip is to use a slope : a lower section for the "superstructure" (food/wheel/sand bath) and a deeper section for digging. See: gerbil bedding and get inspired by gerbil landscaping .

3) Houses, tunnels & storage areas

A good basic setup starts with one "main house" (preferably a multi-chambered house ) where the gerbils can nest together, supplemented with one additional hiding place above the burrowing area. Tunnels and bends help create routes and provide pleasant, sheltered walking paths. See: gerbil houses and gerbil tunnels .

Tip for stability: place "superstructures" such as sandboxes, food, and water on a platform to prevent them from being undermined. See: gerbil platforms & ladders .

4) Nesting material

Gerbils like to drag soft materials into their home to create a warm, comfortable nest. Choose nesting material designed for rodents and combine it with a sturdy digging surface. See: gerbil nesting material .

5) Sand bath

A sand bath is part of their daily routine. Choose a stable sandbox with plenty of space (so they can take turns) and use suitable bath sand. See: sand, bath sand & sandboxes for gerbils .

6) Feed, water & smart offering

Choose one clear, basic food and offer it intelligently: some in a food bowl (control) and some scattered or hidden (challenge). Gerbils hoard; therefore, also check storage areas in houses/tunnels. See: gerbil food and a secure feeding area via gerbil food bowls .

Offer water practically with a drinking bottle or water solution suitable for a glass enclosure. Gerbils like to chew, so choose wisely. See: gerbil drinking bottles & water bowls .

7) Running wheel

An exercise wheel is a welcome addition, provided you choose the right size and a safe running surface. For gerbils, a good size is usually around 28–30 cm (depending on size) and a stable model. Ideally, place the exercise wheel on a platform or stable surface. See: gerbil exercise wheels .

8) Gnawing material & foraging

Gnawing materials are essential for gerbils. They help control their gnawing urges and instantly make their habitat more interesting. Combine gnawing materials with foraging items: hide a few seeds, use demolition materials, and rotate them regularly. See: gerbil gnawing materials and gerbil play & foraging .

Snacks? Keep them small, mindful, and use them primarily as a reward when foraging. See: gerbil snacks .

9) Maintenance

10) Safety & common mistakes

FAQ – basic gerbil furnishings

Shop the complete basics (products in this category)

Below you'll find the products that complement this basic setup. Tip: start with the enclosure + deep digging base + main house + sand bath . Only then add extra tunnels, foraging items, and gnawing material. This keeps the enclosure organized and interesting.