However, avoid keeping them from having food as much as possible. Monkey nuts Niger Unsalted peanuts Other Feeds for Gerbils Apart from bird feeds, gerbils can also eat other types of feeds, including fruits and vegetables. By providing your gerbil with various fruits, you can ensure they get the nutrients they need. Commercial pet food contains primarily grains, seeds, and fat. Bread is a good food for gerbils. There are a few possibilities, but an infection or gastrointestinal issue are the most likely. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. If you can part the gerbils lips with your hand and check their teeth, then you should be able to see a gap between the top and bottom teeth if all is well. They may appear cute and tiny, but theyre also highly intelligent. These vegetables contain oxalates, which can bind with calcium and lead to kidney stones. Knowing what your gerbil can and cant eat is only one half of the equation you also need to understand his nutritional needs. Many pet owners compare the gerbil to the hamster, but its important to realize that these are two different animals. Kiwi vines need water to grow and the desert doesnt have enough water or rainfall to sustain kiwi vines. Flavored nuts may contain ingredients that are harmful to gerbils, so it is best to avoid them as well. While gerbils aren't accustomed to eating raw vegetables, carrots are an excellent choice. Gerbils are omnivorous rodents who enjoy different foods as part of their diet. Do not try to attempt to solve the gerbils dental issue yourself since you might wind up doing more harm to your gerbil than anything else. Its vital for bone growth and bone health in humans and rodents. The gerbil naturally comes from a very dry area of the world, so they typically get their water from the food they eat. Gerbils require a bit of time to get used to their new owners and home before being their normal selves in the new environment. If your pet gerbil has stopped eating, there are a few things you can do to try to get them back on track. If you notice your gerbil is not eating as much as usual, or is avoiding hard foods, it may be because they are in pain from a broken tooth. These fruits can potentially cause stomach upset or other health problems in gerbils. Lab blocks are also a great way to add extra nutrition to a gerbils diet without worrying about the dietary requirements of your little pet. Knowing which fruits are safe for gerbils to eat can help ensure they get the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy. Corn flakes, Flax seeds Soya oil Added vitamins & Added minerals. To avoid this, switch to pellets. Check and remove hidden fresh foods from their cage after 24 hours to prevent this. Gerbils can eat seed mixtures made with pellets, dried fruits, or vegetables. 6. Based on the nutritional value of the kiwi, we can conclude that gerbils can eat kiwis. As long as youre feeding your gerbil snacks that include ingredients that significantly benefit their health, youll have a healthy gerbil. Toast also tastes better to gerbils. Lets delve into this to know the reasons why your gerbil is not eating and what solutions can be implemented. 2. Your gerbils' diet should include: Commercial gerbil food. The key to maintaining pet gerbil health and happiness is to provide your pet with a nutritious diet. They might give you a hard time when they fall sick as its not easy tending to a gerbil. This is important because it helps trim their teeth and is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. This type of bread contains more vitamins and minerals than white bread. There's nothing quite like getting away from it all in nature. These fruits are safe for gerbils and provide them with a healthy snack. Can Gerbils Eat Pears? Among the many fruits and vegetables suitable for gerbils, blueberries and raspberries are high in antioxidants. Research studies have demonstrated that castrated males hoarding behavior increases which shows the role of androgen hormones in influencing this behavior. Can Gerbils Eat Calendula? - Pet Food Mentor Aside from fruit, gerbils also enjoy timothy hay, orchard grass, and oat hay. Based on this data, the correct calcium to phosphorus ratio for gerbils is around [1.7]:[1]. You see, when gerbils break their teeth, its possible that the teeth will start growing up into their mouths. Healthy Nuts Peanuts Almonds Pistachios Pecans Macadamia nuts Brazil nuts The above nuts are all very healthy in small amounts for gerbils. Can Gerbils Eat Bird Food? {Can They Eat Bird Seeds?} When they start sleeping next to each other while in separate cages, this shows that they have started getting used to each other. A favorite treat of gerbils is wholemeal bread. 7. One of the most common challenges people have with gerbils is feeding them the right food. Gerbils front teeth, that is the incisors and cheek teeth at the back of the mouth continuously grow, and without trimming they overgrow. Specially formulated seed and pellet mixes contain all nutrients that your gerbil needs to live a long and healthy life. Make sure to thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before feeding them to avoid introducing pesticides or small errors. Thankfully, this is an issue that can be fixed by any skilled veterinarian, and you dont have to worry about this permanently preventing your gerbil from eating. Gerbils are omnivores and can eat a variety of different fruits. The Allium family contains several poisonous foods, and rhubarb is no exception. Pellets are also expensive, so you should be careful not to give them too much. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Seeds are an important part of a gerbils diet because they contain a lot of vitamins and minerals. There are a few home remedies you can try for your gerbil, but it is always best to consult with a vet first. All animals, including gerbils, need a balanced diet to stay healthy. (3 Pros & Cons to Consider), Can Geckos Change Color? However, you should be aware that not all lab blocks are suitable for gerbils. This can cause difficulty when eating therefore a gerbil will avoid the discomfort during meal times. There are many things, that gerbils can eat, but there are also some things that a gerbil should absolutely not eat. While theyre not suitable for gerbils, dog biscuits are a great alternative to the dog food your gerbil might be fed regularly. A veterinarian will be able to take a look at your gerbil so that you can figure out exactly what is going on. You can do this by supplementing their food with fresh foods such as vegetables and fruits at least once a week and also by mixing their pre-made blends. Read more: Why do gerbils eat their dead? Related Questions Can gerbils eat cooking apples? It is in their nature for dying gerbils to leave food reserves for their groups survival by limiting their eating, therefore they will not eat or drink water as much. Lab blocks can also be supplemented with loose seed mix and treats. You dont likely spend all of your time staring at your gerbils cage, and you might not be catching the times when it decides to go drink some water. Ferret Dietary Questions: Can Ferrets Eat Bananas? What Can A Gerbil Eat? A Short Guide For Your Pet Gerbil The best pairing of gerbils is pairing a new gerbil that is less than 10 weeks old with an adult gerbil of the same gender. Gerbils do not react to citrus fruits and can eat apple slices and blueberries. I grew up with dogs and fish and now have two dogs and two cats. They can even be unappetizing to some hamsters. One reason nuts are considered safe for gerbils is their nutritional content. Please see our. So, if you want to provide them with a tasty snack, you can proceed with feeding them nuts. They are desert animals that are used to minimal food and water reserves so they can stay a little while without food. Read More: Why is my gerbil eating its bedding? These mixes are a good source of protein and fat. Knowing which fruits gerbils can eat is that you can provide them with a healthy diet. Brazil nuts include moderate amounts of calcium, zinc, and vitamin E, making these nuts an excellent snack for your gerbil. So when you give too many kiwis or give them too many times in a week, your gerbil can get health issues such as diarrhea. Can Gerbils Eat Apples? Foods to avoid include: Gerbil muesli - Muesli-based gerbil diets encourage selective feeding, where gerbils eat high starch/sugar components of the muesli while . Water is scarce in this region and you would think that kiwi vines wouldnt grow well in this region. Omlet 2023, Currently, there is a waiting time due to high demand. According to the bookNutrient Requirements of Laboratory Animals, the amount of calcium that gerbils need is 5.0g/kg diet and the amount of phosphorus is 3.0g/kg diet. Your email address will not be published. They eat seeds, grasses, and vegetables, along with some fruits, leaves, and herbs. There are some disadvantages to pellets as food for gerbils, though. Ive also played guitar for almost 20 years and love writing music, although its hard to find the time these days. A common commercial diet for gerbils is a pelleted ration with 14%-16% protein. The reason why monkey nuts are the best snacks for your gerbil is because of their outer shell. 1. Menu Guinea Pigs Gerbils Ferrets What Fruits Can Gerbils Eat Gerbils are omnivores and can eat a variety of different fruits. Why a Pet Gerbil Might Stop Eating (And What to Do About it) Fighting between gerbils can also cause a gerbil not to eat because of the conflict between them and their cage mate. If you want to give your gerbil the best nutrition, you should give them fruits and vegetables. Nuts witch are processed like roasted, blanched, or shelled are generally safe for your gerbil to eat. 3. Like most animals, individual gerbils have . We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. These nutrients are necessary for your gerbil to have good health. Number: 05028498 April 10, 2023 Gerbil Gerbils are curious and active little creatures that love to explore their surroundings, including new foods. This is a natural instinct and adaptation from living in the desert to preserve food resources. Since they are omnivores, it can be tricky to figure out what fruits and vegetables they can eat. Dried fruits and vegetables There are a lot of dried fruits and vegetables that gerbils love to eat; banana, apple, raisins, sultanas, apricots, just to mention a few. Gerbils naturally hide or hoard their food. In addition, wereallaboutpets.comis a participant in several other affiliate programs, held by other merchants. They do not promote foraging behavior. Trying your best to get the gerbil to eat is going to be helpful, but if the gerbil just doesnt seem to want to eat, then it could be that it has become ill. At this point, you are going to need to contact the veterinarian so that you can go over your options. Types of apples Fresh, dried or dehydrated apples Apple-flavored treats How many times can you give apples? I also enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking and camping. These include grapes, raisins, and currants. Avoid raw kidney beans, raw potato, onion, potato leaves, and rhubarb leaves. Read More Can Gerbils Eat Apples? Also, keep an eye out for hidden fresh foods like vegetables and fruits which can become spoiled and cause health problems when your gerbil eats them. This way they wont get too full and wont be as likely to turn their nose up at their food. The recommended dietary magnesium concentration is 1.5 grams per kilogram, while the minimum is 1.0 grams per kilogram. Always feed them at the same time each day, and remove any food remains after 24 hours. Gerbils are very active creatures and love to chew on things. Just know that veterinarians always need to be the ones to handle issues like this since they are trained to take care of pets such as gerbils. What Do Gerbils Eat? - animal-knowledge In addition to fruit, you can also give your gerbils a variety of vegetables to eat. It's so rewarding to help pets look and feel their best. This equates to around one tablespoon of quality gerbil food every day. Home Pocket Pets Why a Pet Gerbil Might Stop Eating (And What to Do About it). Cookies. They will be able to treat the gerbil, and youll be able to determine what is going on so that things can move forward. Kevin is the primary author of this website. Kiwi wont do too much but can add a little bit of magnesium. Gerbils should only eat a small bite-sized piece (up to one teaspoon) of fresh kiwi per gerbil per serving. In captivity, however, a pet gerbil typically eats a commercial diet supplemented with fresh foods. Dried or dehydrated kiwi should be given less often. Ferrets are obligate carnivores and cant process plant matter properly. These little rodents grow up to 4 inches long and get another 4 inches from their long, furry tails. All these fruits offer different nutrients that your gerbil needs, so it is essential to provide them with a variety. There are situations where gerbils will wind up breaking their teeth while theyre playing or doing other things. The 9 Best Dog Foods without Corn, Wheat or Soy. Although gerbils dont recognise raw eggs as food, they can enjoy the crunchiness of boiled eggs. How to tell if a nut is safe for your gerbil to eat? This may include providing more hiding places, increasing the amount of exercise, and reducing noise and activity levels. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Gerbil Food To Avoid | Gerbil Food | Gerbils | Guide | Omlet US What Do Gerbils Eat (Diets, Care & Feeding Tips) Commercial seed mixes usually have a variety of seeds, as well as some cereal for added nutrition. There are a number of foods that gerbils can eat, and the following list is an example of some of them. What about apples? If the gerbil doesnt show any interest in its favorite foods, then that is not going to be a good sign. If youre ever unsure about what to feed your gerbil, the best thing to do is talk to a veterinarian. What Do Gerbils Eat? - We're All About Pets Some signs that a gerbil is sick include lethargy, weight loss, and changes in eating and drinking habits. If you are unsure about the nutritional value of these foods, read gerbil forums to learn more about gerbil-safe food. Feed your gerbil at about the same time each day and remove any uneaten food before the next meal. 4. So if youre looking to add some variety to your gerbils diet, consider giving them some delicious fruits! Youre going to want to take the gerbil to your veterinarian to get things checked out properly so that you can make a determination. *Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.Additionally, PetFood.Guide participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission from purchases made through our links. These are omnivorous animals, so they require a variety of foods in their diet. This is normal and common in older gerbils. I am passionate about pets and love sharing everything about them. They will occasionally eat insects and small amounts of meat as well. Also, their food needs to be prepared with plenty of precaution, or they might get an upset stomach. Can Gerbils Eat Kiwi? Dried or dehydrated kiwi should be limited to only once every two weeks or once a month. You can also feed your gerbil leaf lettuce, butterhead lettuce, or romaine lettuce. Lab blocks are larger pieces of food that are scientifically proven to provide all of the essential nutrients a gerbil needs. Ignoring this issue will be very dangerous for your pet gerbil since it might not return to eating, and this could eventually cause your gerbil to pass away. Gerbil Bites: Do Gerbils Bite, Does It Hurt and What to Do? Grapes and Raisins. Check out our in-depth guide to the best commercial gerbil foods. How many apples can you give? You will want to limit the quantity of lettuce you allow your gerbil to eat. This depends on many factors such as what is wrong with the gerbil, but your veterinarian will be able to give you a realistic prognosis. These fruits are all packed with vitamins and minerals that help keep your gerbil healthyas with the other fruits, wash them properly before giving them to your gerbil to eat. If your pet gerbil has suddenly stopped eating, it may be due to dental problems. If you think your gerbil is stressed, you should try to reduce the stressors in its environment. Its not recommended to give dried or dehydrated kiwi because of its large percentage of sugar. Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds can be offered sparingly since they are high in fat. Of course, you need to ensure that youre using the right type of gerbil food so that the gerbil gets what it needs. Younger and more active gerbils may need higher fat percentages to account for increased calorie burn. Pellets are similar to small biscuits. If your gerbil is still not drinking, take them to the vet to make sure there isnt a underlying health issue. French fries. What You Need to Know Before You Buy Gerbils (Buyers Guide), How much space does your gerbil have in its tank/cage? Also as a new pet in a new home try to give your gerbil time to get used to the new environment. We may receive a commission for purchases that you make through these links. Other seeds are poppy seeds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seed, and black-eyed peas. After a few months, your gerbil should be ready to eat a 50/50 mix of commercially balanced pellets and seed mix, with small amounts of fresh vegetables and fruits. Firstly, the crumbly structure can make them unusable and ineffective for teeth-wearing. If youre not sure what to feed your gerbil, a commercial gerbil food could be the best option. Ensure that the grains you provide are boiled first, so they are soft and easy to digest. Gerbils are sensitive rodents that require your utmost care and attention. Some people believe that pellets are the best food for gerbils because they are easy to digest. Seed mixes are great treats for gerbils. In the wild, gerbils will eat insects, but these should not be given to them as pets. What Can Gerbils Eat? - Pet Food Guide What Can Dogs NOT Eat? | PetMD These fruits are all packed with nutrients and antioxidants that help keep your gerbil healthy. Gerbils in captivity also continue to have this hoarding tendency even if you are providing them with enough food. In large quantities, these foods can cause upset stomachs and gastrointestinal issues in your gerbil. You can also try adding a little bit of fruit juice or honey to the water to make it more appealing. Gerbil food consists of pellets and a teaspoon of seed mixture and 1 teaspoon of fresh vegetables and fruits per week. This could be something like an intestinal blockage, which can be serious. April 26, 2023 by Paul Wise Have you ever seen Gerbils? Fresh Foods It contains too many compounds that affect their digestion. Yes, Brazil nuts are relatively bigger than monkey nuts, but theyre equally nutritious and healthy. Gerbils can eat kiwi but only as a treat. However, there are a few foods that you shouldnt give your gerbil if you have problems with its teeth. Gerbils often pick out favorite ingredients and leave the rest of the mix. Some pet owners supplement their pets diet with fresh vegetables and fruits. Admittedly, gerbils are peculiar when it comes to water, and they dont really need to drink that much of it to survive. It is also a sign that something is wrong especially if the lack of eating is accompanied by other symptoms and changes of behavior. Feed them treats in a separate bowl or you can feed them by hand. If your gerbil has a gastrointestinal issue, it will likely have a swollen belly and be constipated. Pellet type food is best. If you think your gerbil has a lack of appetite, you should take it to the vet for a check-up. Your gerbil's diet - PDSA Infections of the gums or teeth are also common in gerbils. But what materials are safe? But if you are zoophobic like me, they can be a bit scary, right? Gerbils can also eat slices of bread, such as toast, for a healthy snack. These mixtures are made from seeds and pellets, but they can also contain fruits, vegetables, and even vegetables. Though hamsters and gerbils are both technically omnivores, the gerbil prefers a vegetarian diet. Make sure that your gerbils food has a good blend of ingredients. Antioxidants in berries may help prevent the occurrence of oxidative stress. Gerbil Food List. Healthy gerbil foods also include fruit and vegetables, but only as a treat. Ensure that the vegetables you give them are chopped into small pieces, so they dont choke on them. The amount of food a gerbil eats varies however, a gerbil generally eats around 5 to 8g per 100g body weight of food per day. You can buy dried and dehydrated kiwi (such as these tiny kiwi slices) or you can make them yourselves with a food dehydrator. I'm currently a pet groomer, and I love it. Solved & Explained! However, rhubarb is not suitable for gerbils diet because it can lead to diarrhea. If your gerbil is still not interested in eating, you can try offering them smaller meals more often throughout the day. Baby gerbils, however, must be fed their mothers milk or formula for the first three weeks of life. Plus, they are convenient for you as a pet owner. Carrots can be fed raw or cooked. Gerbils have very delicate teeth that can easily become damaged or infected. If you notice this, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Small pets like the hamster and gerbil are often described as great options for children, but that isnt always the case. However, the following foods can do serious damage to your pet. Gerbils make really good pets, and people love them so much that they have become pretty common in America. Omlet 2023, Limited availability due to high demand. If you fail to pay the required attention, your gerbil will probably fall ill. When giving your gerbil nuts, it is best to offer a small amount at first to see how they react. Gerbils also occasionally eat nuts, but these should be avoided. You can buy commercial gerbil diets that meet the specific nutritional needs of gerbils. Gerbils dont tend to drink a lot of water, but you should still provide it in a small water bottle hung where your gerbil can easily access it. So, it is essential to be aware of the types of fruit that are safe for your gerbils to eat. What Other Fruits Can You Feed Them? Kiwi vines are best grown in semi-tropical climates. If you want to include insects in a gerbils diet, dried mealworms could be a good option. Many fruits and vegetables contain trace amounts of pesticides. Do not overfeed your gerbil with fresh foods because they contain too much moisture and can cause stomach upset for your gerbil. Vegetables and herbs Fruit Vitamins and supplements Gerbil treats Seeds Nuts Harmful foods Dairy products Sweetened breakfast cereal Food that contains caffeine/theobromine A gerbil should eat 3 to 4 times a day. Cooked nuts can be difficult for gerbils to digest and may cause stomach upset. If you suspect that the gerbil hasnt been drinking properly, then its best to err on the side of caution and just take the gerbil to the veterinarian. Kiwis contain a lot of water and sugar, which can cause health issues. They contain a small amount of fat and protein and are safe for consumption by gerbils. A kiwis calcium to phosphorus ratio is [1]:[1], which is neither good nor bad for gerbils. You should also avoid feeding them any contaminated food to gerbils, such as chocolate or caffeine. Knowing the reason behind a gerbil not eating will help in implementing the appropriate action to help them. To give you an idea of what gerbils eat and how much you should feed your pet gerbil during different life stages, refer to this chart: Most gerbil owners offer their gerbil its food in a small, heavy bowl that cant be knocked over. Read More Cleaning the Gerbil Cage | Practical How-To Guide With TipsContinue. When shopping for gerbil food, remember to keep your pets nutritional needs in mind. Regarding specific nutrients, gerbils need high levels of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K. These can be found in natural seeds and grains, so thats why seed mixes are such a good diet for gerbils. These include fruit and vegetables, Lab blocks, and Wholemeal bread. Gerbils will enjoy other fruits such as bananas, pears, and strawberries. Other vegetables harmful to gerbils include tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. Stress can cause a gerbil to refuse to eat their food because of anxiety. A good rule of thumb is to offer no more than two carrots per gerbil per treat. This can be difficult to achieve in practice. The best food for gerbils is a specially formulated gerbil mix. If you think your gerbil is sick, you should take it to the vet for a check-up. When gerbils get very sick, its going to be possible that they will just stop eating entirely. Certain fruits, like blueberries, are high in antioxidants and other nutrients beneficial for gerbils.

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