How Much Does a Gerbil Cost?

The gerbil is a small mammal commonly known as a “desert rat.”  While gerbils are in the rodent family, they are not the same as mice or rats.  They have a fluffier tail and are much friendlier.  Gerbils can be great first pets for children.  They are very active and fun, and they allow people to handle them and play with them.  As long as you are not too rough, a gerbil will not normally bite you.

How much is it?

• A gerbil will usually cost between $5 and $15.  Purchasing your gerbil from a pet store will be cheaper than purchasing it directly from a breeder.
• For example, a gerbil can be purchased at a local brick and mortar store such as PetSmart for $11.99.
• According to the American Gerbil Society, “If you’re getting gerbils you must get at least two. Lone gerbils have been proven to live shorter, less healthy lives, and are often overweight and not too happy. They also tend to be harder to tame and less friendly overall.”  Therefore, the price of having a gerbil as a pet will double to $10-$20.

What is going to be included?

• Simple care instructions, such as handling and feeding instructions, should be included with your gerbils.  If it is not, you can find much information such as “The Top Ten Gerbil Dos and Don’ts” and Pet Info Packets.

What are the extra costs?

• Gerbils need to be housed in a gerbil cage.  These cages are usually made of metal or plastic and can even have playground-like tubes through which the gerbils can crawl and play.  Gerbil cages can be found at Pet Mountain for $40-$60.
• The bottom of your gerbils’ cage needs to be lined with bedding that should be changed about once every week or two.  This bedding costs about $9 per bag, and each bag should last about two months.
• The food your gerbils will eat will cost between $10-$20 per bag, depending on the size.  Generally, the larger the bag the less you pay per unit, so it is to your advantage to buy in bulk.  A $20 bag of gerbil food should last you a about 2 months.  Food and bedding for your gerbil can be found at any local pet store such as Petco.
• There are toys you can purchase for your gerbils.  These toys include a ball cruiser for out-of-cage exercise, additional tubes and even slides to attach to the cage, and small chew toys.  These toys can range from $3-$20.
• Be sure to consider purchasing a gerbil wheel.  These rodents tend to exercise a few times a day.  If they don’t have the necessary means to exercise, they may not be too happy.

Tips to know:

• Always consider a companion for your gerbil.  Gerbils tend to be happier with more than one mate in their cage.  Keep in mind that it’s ideal to keep the same sex in the cage to avoid reproduction.
• Ensure that the cage is big enough to accommodate the gerbils that are in the cage.  Do they have room to roam around?  Do they seem claustrophobic?  Be sure to trust your gut on this one.
• Avoid pulling the tail of the gerbil as this can cause damage.

How can I save money?

• Discount sites such as Amazon can be used to purchase new and used gerbil cages and toys.
• Check with local adoption centers or even local pet stores as many may have some up for adoption.  Most of the time, these gerbils may be given away for no cost, or for a small donation.  Check with local Humane Societies as well to see if they have anything up for adoption as well.

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