Gerbils are social animals with complex needs that are frequently misunderstood — appropriate housing and enrichment dramatically improve their welfare.
Gerbils are among the most social of common small pets — housing a single gerbil is a significant welfare violation that causes loneliness, chronic stress, and behavioral abnormalities. Paired or group housing is essential, though introducing adult gerbils that did not grow up together is challenging and requires specific techniques. Beyond social housing, gerbils need deep substrate — at least 20cm — to construct the complex burrow systems that are central to their behavioral repertoire. Barren cages with shavings on a wire floor deny the most fundamental natural behaviors. Enrichment including gnawing material, nesting material, and foraging opportunities creates an environment where gerbils can express natural behaviors and experience positive welfare. The gap between typical pet shop gerbil housing and evidence-based welfare standards is large.