Gerbils are curious and active pets that love to explore and play. Keeping them entertained is essential to their physical and mental health. Fortunately, there are many household items that you can use to create fun and stimulating activities for your gerbil.
In this article, we will explore some of the best household items that gerbils can play with and how to use them safely.
1. Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes are one of the most versatile and inexpensive items that you can use to create a play area for your gerbil. You can use them to create tunnels, mazes, and hiding places for your gerbil. Make sure to remove any tape or staples from the box before giving it to your pet.
2. Paper Towel Rolls
Empty paper towel rolls can also be used to create tunnels and hiding places for your gerbil. Cut them into different lengths and arrange them in different configurations to keep things interesting for your pet.
3. Wooden Toys
Wooden toys, such as blocks or bird toys, can be a great addition to your gerbil’s play area. Make sure that the wood is untreated and free of any sharp edges or splinters.
4. PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are a great way to create tunnels and mazes for your gerbil. Make sure that the pipes are wide enough for your pet to move through easily, and avoid using pipes that have been treated with chemicals.
5. Paper Bags
Paper bags can be used to create fun hiding places for your gerbil. Make sure to remove any handles or other potential choking hazards before giving the bag to your pet.
6. Hay Bales
Hay bales are a great way to provide your gerbil with a natural, stimulating environment. They can be used for climbing, tunneling, and foraging. Make sure to get hay that is free of mold and dust.
7. Toilet Paper Rolls
Toilet paper rolls can be used to create tunnels and hiding places for your gerbil. Cut them into different lengths and arrange them in different configurations to keep things interesting for your pet.
8. Plastic Balls
Plastic balls with holes can be a fun way to provide your gerbil with exercise and stimulation. Make sure that the holes are large enough for your pet to breathe comfortably, and avoid using balls that are too small or too heavy.
9. Ladders
Ladders can be used to create climbing and exploration opportunities for your gerbil. Make sure that the ladder is sturdy and stable before allowing your pet to use it.
10. Shredded Paper
Shredded paper can be used to create a soft and cozy bedding for your gerbil. Make sure to use paper that is free of any chemicals or toxins.
11. Ceramic or Clay Pots
Ceramic or clay pots can be used as hiding places for your gerbil. Make sure that the pot is free of any sharp edges or rough spots that could injure your pet.
12. Edible Toys
Edible toys, such as chew sticks or seed bells, can be a fun way to provide your gerbil with stimulation and nutrition. Make sure that the toys are specifically designed for gerbils and free of any harmful additives.
13. Woven Grass Mats
Woven grass mats can be used to create a natural and stimulating environment for your gerbil. They can be used for foraging, climbing, and sleeping. Make sure to get mats that are free of any chemicals or toxins.
14. Ping Pong Balls
Ping pong balls can be a fun way to provide your gerbil with exercise and stimulation. Make sure that the balls are not too small and that they do not have any sharp edges or holes that could harm your pet.
15. Plastic Tunnels
Plastic tunnels can be used to create a fun and stimulating environment for your gerbil. Make sure that the tunnels are sturdy and do not have any sharp edges or loose parts that could injure your pet.
While these household items can provide great play opportunities for your gerbil, it’s important to always supervise your pet while they are playing and to remove any items that become damaged or could pose a risk to your pet’s safety.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure that your gerbil’s play area is free of any potential hazards, such as electrical cords or chemicals.
Conclusion
There are many household items that you can use to create a fun and stimulating play area for your gerbil. From cardboard boxes to ping pong balls, these items can provide exercise, mental stimulation, and entertainment for your pet. Just be sure to supervise your pet and remove any potential hazards to keep them safe and healthy.
FAQs
Are there any household items that gerbils should not play with?
Yes, there are several household items that can be dangerous for gerbils to play with, such as items with sharp edges, loose parts, or potential choking hazards. Always supervise your pet while they are playing and remove any items that could pose a risk to their safety.
Can gerbils play with cat toys?
While some cat toys may be safe for gerbils to play with, it’s important to always check the toy for potential hazards and to supervise your pet while they are playing.
How often should I change my gerbil’s play area?
It’s a good idea to change your gerbil’s play area regularly to keep things interesting and prevent boredom. Depending on how much time your gerbil spends playing, you may want to change their play area every few days or once a week.
Can gerbils play with plastic bags?
No, gerbils should not play with plastic bags as they can be a choking hazard and are not safe for pets to play with.
What is the best way to create a safe play area for my gerbil?
The best way to create a safe play area for your gerbil is to choose items that are specifically designed for gerbils or are safe for pets to play with. Additionally, always supervise your pet while they are playing and remove any potential hazards from their play area.
