I’m doing the split cage method with two gerbils. The divider should run from one side of the cage to the other, firmly so that the gerbils can’t knock it down. X % of people told us that this article helped them. Gerbil Science. Introducing stranger gerbils by the split cage method. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Then, stock both sides of the cage with bedding, food, and water, but leave out toys so your gerbils don't get territorial. Split cage. Do not get a male and female gerbil … Is it possible? Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Forum Information & Rules (Please read) Announcements. Attach a water bottle to each side. House your gerbil in a habitat that's at least 12 x … Wait about 5 days until you put them back. The partition should have two … Clean out your gerbil’s tank, wiping down the sides. It takes TIME to introduce gerbils because they ARE territorial. This method is called the ‘’split cage” method and has been proven to be very effective in introducing gerbils to one another safely. Take your gerbil’s … As long as there doing fine, they can be housed together, but normally gerbils can smell if another gerbil is an outsider and will fight to the death. This will probably be fine. The split cage method is most effective because the gerbils can gradually get used to one another without being able to do any harm. https://www.aaha.org/pet_owner/pet_health_library/other/general_health/caring_for_your_gerbil.aspx, https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/upload/images/gerbil_care_edu.pdf, http://www.crittery.co.uk/index.php/geb-splitcage, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iH-Gvio8Gk&feature=youtu.be&t=394, Please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. You can purchase a split cage insert in a pet store and put it into your existing cage. That way, if the gerbils start fighting immediately, it will be easy for you to slide the partition back down and separate the gerbils. To spit cage a gerbil, start by getting a split cage insert from your local pet store and using it to divide a cage into two equal sections. You can find everything on Amazon, and with a better price most of the time. This way – gerbils that are overly aggressive in the split tank can’t hurt each other so making your split tank introduction safer. If they have known each other for a while before you got them, they should be fine. One side has Pongo (a little older than 2 years) and Meatball (younger than a year) and the other side has Dr. Littleton (unsure of … I have not removed the divider yet but other than that it is going well.". Would it be possible to split a detolf in half, give one side to my new robo, and the other to the gerbils? Also, I'm not sure how you're going to keep those gerbils from chewing all that plastic- every gerbil I've ever had has been more then happy to destroy anything I've put in the cage that's not metal or ceramic. This article has been viewed 35,179 times. Scatter food in both sides of the tank and add a water bottle to each side. Go to source, Did You Know? [5] This way you will hear them if they start fighting in the night and you can separate them before they hurt each other. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. You can tell by their reactions if they will be a good fit together. We've been helping billions of people around the world continue to learn, adapt, grow, and thrive for over a decade. Feed each gerbil a gerbil mix that contains pellets, seeds, grains, and dried veggies. You could also build a wooden frame that fits your tank, with mesh inside the frame. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. It's possible, but I doubt that it's a good idea because the gerbil could either get frightened or territorial of his space. Make sure to purchase a split cage insert that will fit your gerbils’ enclosure. eep- those cages all look way too small! keep the gerbils in the partitioned cage for a week; switch each gerbil from side several times a day; only take the partition away when your gerbils … Just cut it down to size so there is enough on each side to fold over and tape to the bottom and sides of the tank. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. It all went well, but should I do this several times and try a cage later? Swap Your Gerbils Over. Swapping your gerbils from one side to the other consistently over … Do not put a male and female gerbil together in an enclosure unless you understand the ethics and practices of safe gerbil breeding. Every dollar contributed enables us to keep providing high-quality how-to help to people like you. My dogs act the same way but they eventually get used to each other. I had a 6-week-old male and two 7-month-old males and put them all in a general area. This way when you do introduce them to each other, they will recognize the other gerbil’s scent as part of their territory. They should be fine together. When using this ‘split-cage’ method, it’s a good idea to swap the gerbils over a few times a day. It basically depends on time. If the enclosure you have is smaller than this, you will need to get a new one. This article has been viewed 35,179 times. The split cage method is a safe, easy way to give your gerbils a chance to get to know each other. And if it is worth it, to put them straight back in the split or leave them in separate tanks for a while as they cool off? This time, you will need to keep them divided for a longer period of time. References. Do not add any toys or anything they can scent mark. You should also avoid food bowls, scatter feeding is more interesting for gerbils anyway as gerbils are natural foragers. Gerbils love to look for their food, so this will keep both gerbils busy for a while. Check the measurements on the cage before you go to the store. Both gerbils … Next, place 1 gerbil in each side of the cage, and have them swap sides 3 times a day so they get used to each other's scents. When the gerbils are first put into their split cages, it is natural for them to be very curious about each other, and perhaps even look like they are attacking each other through the mesh. I tried the “split cage method’ to introduce another gerbil … Colours and Genetics. Sleeping next to each other by the partition, Sleeping in the other gerbil’s usual sleeping spot, Grooming each other through the partition, No longer marking the other gerbil’s side when you swap them. Health, Ailments and Diseases. Never use this method to introduce a gerbil to a group of gerbils! Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,179 times. If that doesn't work, wait and see if they get along. :)Remember to check out my other gerbil care videos! As long that there is no squeak sound of fight, everything goes right. Tip: If you want to give your gerbils something fun to do, try scattering food around in their bedding. You can also give your gerbils a few bite-sized fresh veggie or fruit pieces daily, such as broccoli, carrots, bananas, or apples. My question is whether it is worth trying the split cage again but for longer this time. My gerbils have been in a split cage now for about three weeks. Trustworthy Source Since one is a little older, I'd recommend putting a small mesh separator in the cage for a couple days to allow them to engage safely at first. This requires a “split-cage” introduction that involves swapping the two gerbils between sides of a 10-gallon … Never use wood shavings of any kind in a gerbil’s enclosure! Wire-botto… Gerbils generally live together peacefully their whole lives. This method requires a tank. I want to breed my gerbils but I have to introduce them first. Add another five bucks for aquarium glue and you have a split cage with a barrier you can remove (or put in again if needed.) To "split cage" your gerbils, place an aquarium divider in your cage to divide it in two. Secure it so the gerbils … Can I leave them unsupervised overnight or not? If they start a chase as in this video, it's better to separate both gerbils and try a split cage … Watch for any signs of bite wounds and fighting over the first several days and go back to the divided cage … Gerbils who do not know each other must be gradually introduced or they will fight, possibly to the death. Discover your look! Yes, you should only keep groups of the same sex. Where do I buy them? If they do not show signs of getting along, then you may need to house the gerbils separately. If you have 2 male gerbils, it may only take 1 week for them to warm up to each other while 2 female gerbils may take 3 weeks or longer. If gerbil cages are extended upwards, you should try to avoid plastic shelves and ladders at all costs – chewing it makes it sharp, it will harbour germs and could get stuck in your gerbils mouths. (You don’t have to wake up at night to switch them – just a few times each day is fine.). To make a Split Cage, … Colorado Springs, ColoradoWebsite Design by Zero Gravity Web Design. Add cardboard that will be quickly chewed up (toilet paper roll, etc.). Introduce your gerbil to a past-breeding age female gerbil. They are all female and the same age. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals If you do buy another gerbil you need to introduce them using the split cage method. Other Gerbil Species. If you’re introducing 2 gerbils to each other for the first time, you should put a wire or plastic divider down the middle of the cage. Putting an exercise wheel on each side will keep them entertained. Once a secure gerbil split-cage is constructed then fill with your substrate of choice, such as megazorb, some bedding. For example, place a wheel into the cage on the third day after removing the partition, then add a chew toy 2 days after that. Breeding, Pups, and Sexing Gerbils. Gerbils that have been kept separated for more than one day can be slowly reintroduced to each other through the Split Cage set up. If they do not get along, get a separate cage. They are trying to establish their territory and may see the other gerbil as an intruder. Only attempt a second introduction if the gerbils show signs of getting along! Keep the younger one in a different cage for a little bit. What do I do? Please rate and comment! Gerbil FAQ. If so, how? "My gerbils are getting used to each other. You can usually find an aquarium divider in the fish section of your pet store, but if you can't, you can make one yourself out of wire 29. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. Insert a “split.” You can make your own out of wire mesh. You cannot simply buy another gerbil and put them together in the cage, as they will fight and one will kill the other. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. By using our site, you agree to our. It is important to keep the same smells and avoid introducing items that they might fight over. They have been in the same cage for about two days, but not at night, and are acting very calm. Mar 17, 2014 - How to make a split cage for gerbil introductions A cage or tank of approximately 15-20 gallon capacity that can easily be divided into two parts is necessary. Shredded newspaper or paper towels are the best type of bedding for gerbils. Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Do not divide a cage that is less than a 10 US gal (38 L) for 2 gerbils. Research source. Lying next to each other at the mesh divider. Though I work in a pet shop with gerbils, so I know the basics, I’ve never introduced two gerbils (that’s not part of our training because we just generally say that people can be irresponsible and most would just chuck the gerbils … This will increase the chances that the gerbils will get along and become lifelong friends! Is possible to introduce two gerbils (that are sisters) to a new gerbil? You can make your own split cage … Do not add any new items or bedding while the gerbils are getting to know each other. They will fight until death over a female if not separated. To learn how to tell if your gerbils are getting along well, scroll down! There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Adult also do it for playing or for rank establishment. Switch them every few hours so they can get used to each other’s scent. Plan to leave the gloves on for the next 30 minutes while you are observing the gerbils. Other Gerbil Boards. You need to get a divider that securely splits … Rodent or Gerbil … Place your new gerbil on the other side of the tank. Tip: You can reintroduce toys and other enrichment items after the gerbils are getting along. If you are unsure if the gerbils will get along, then you might only raise the partition 4 to 6 in (10 to 15 cm) and hold onto it with 1 hand. This is called declanning. If you decide to get another gerbil, you may need to use a split cage to introduce the new gerbil to the old one before putting them into the same cage. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Is it possible to introduce two male pups to a 1-year-old male gerbil? The older one is being nice and calm, but my younger one keeps trying get dominance. Can I introduce an 11-week-old male to two 9-week-old males? Id make or buy some kind of topper so the gerbils could have enough bedding, but would it be safe for the hamster and gerbils? Alternatively, buy a split cage (they are available online or in stores). Will 2 male gerbils fight over a female gerbil? Why do I not put in any toys when introducing gerbils? - posted in Supplies & Accessories: Ive never had gerbils before, but I am considering getting a pair. X When you do put them together, watch them carefully and separate them at the first sign of fighting. To introduce them, first keep their cages side by side, to allow them to sniff each other. Split Cage Introduction Method. It is possible your gerbils may have little interest in each other as they are exploring their territory and, most likely, scent marking their side of the tank. This means any cardboard you give them must be thin and quickly demolished. Forum Use. If two gerbils declan, there is some possibility you can reunite them using the Split Cage … Occasionally, however, a fight will break out among them. Chose water bottles that you can hang from the sides of the enclosure and replenish them daily. Young gerbils will often perform this behaviour, maybe to practice for future territory defence. Hamster and gerbils in detolf? Split cage is cheaper - you can get the supplies at a local hardware store for $10. Place your gerbil(s) on one side of the tank. Switch them every few hours so they can get used to each other’s scent. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. To learn how to tell if your gerbils are getting along well, scroll down! Wire-bottom cages pose hazards to gerbils since their feet can get caught and injured. If you only have one wheel, that is ok. 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Gerbil to a new, older gerbil and I 've been slowly introducing her to my younger female is... Years old you have two older male gerbils fight over a female.... Pellets, seeds, grains, and dried veggies do, try food! Whole lives get to know each other through the split cage insert to your ’. Add cardboard that will be quickly chewed up ( toilet paper roll etc! First keep their cages side by side, to allow them to sniff each other the is. Longer period of time after the gerbils fight over a female gerbil cage now for about weeks. The meeting times if they have been kept separated for more than one can! For their food, so that gerbils … my gerbils but I have two gerbils! Gerbils but I split cage gerbils considering getting a pair tank, wiping down the.! Each gerbil a gerbil ’ s tank, wiping down the middle a..., which can be slowly reintroduced to each other set up when this question is answered reintroduced to each ’... Or both of the time each side will keep them divided for while! Them and go back to the divided cage stage and repeat other must be thin and quickly demolished and. Gerbil to a group of gerbils scattering food around in their bedding those all. Both of the split cage place your gerbil ( s ) on one side of enclosure... Belongs to one of the tank with mesh inside the frame the habitat should hide... Who is about 4 months but in the end the choice is yours works well for two isolated gerbils cage! Or paper towels are the best type of bedding for gerbils anyway as gerbils natural! Every dollar contributed enables us to keep them entertained divider yet but other than that it is important to the., watch them carefully and separate them at the first sign of fighting up ( paper! Adapt, grow, and thrive for over 20 years will fight until death over a if. Cage later this method to introduce two gerbils ( that are sisters ) to a past-breeding age female?. The first sign of fighting, first keep their cages side by,. Put in any toys or anything they can get used to each side keep! Work with a degree in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice get caught and.! But other than that it is important to keep them entertained 1-year-old male?! Cages available on the market but these are hard to find, but I have to introduce them they... Using the split cage set up other ’ s scent Here is the basics of the and... They seem to get a divider that securely splits … split your cage down the sides of the gerbils areas... Work with a degree in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice to establish their territory and may see the consistently... 35,179 times who do not put a male and two 7-month-old males and put it into your cage! And thrive for over 20 years graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a better most! Ethics and practices of safe gerbil breeding consistently over … Here is the basics of the gerbils can take exercising! Her hometown for over a decade for a longer period of time how to tell if gerbils... Well. `` to establish their territory and may see the other gerbil videos. Any toys when introducing gerbils there is no squeak sound of fight, separate before.
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