Can Gerbils Live in Bin Cages? (The Brutally Honest Answer)

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The struggle is real. 😩

You've spent hours researching, trying to find the perfect home for your furry little friend.

But every article seems to contradict the last, leaving you with more questions than answers.

Are gerbils really meant to be locked away in tiny cages?

It feels wrong, like trapping a butterfly in a shoebox.

You want the best for your gerbil, but how can you be sure?

Well, let's begin.

Can Gerbils Live in Bin Cages?

Are you considering getting a gerbil?

Do you wonder if they can be kept in bin cages?

Well, the simple answer is yes, technically they can.

But, before you decide on that, let's go over a few important points you should consider.

First and foremost, safety is key when it comes to housing your gerbil.

Bin cages do have their downsides. Gerbils are natural diggers and plastic doesn't stand a chance against their chewing skills.

So, there's a chance your gerbil might try to escape by gnawing through the plastic.

And trust me, chasing after an escaped gerbil all day is not something anyone wants to do.

Not only can escape be an issue, but chewing on plastic can harm your gerbil's teeth and digestion as well.

Your main goal should be providing them with a safe and healthy environment where they can thrive.

Instead of bin cages, I recommend looking into better options such as glass tanks or wire mesh enclosures with glass tubs.

These alternatives offer stronger and more secure homes for your gerbil.

They not only prevent escape but also allow your furry friend to fulfill their natural digging instincts without any harm.

By choosing these alternatives, you'll guarantee that your gerbil is happy, comfortable, and safe in their new space.

Because let's be honest, we all want our gerbils to have the best life possible, right?

While bin cages may work temporarily, it's worth exploring other housing choices that can provide your gerbil with a safer and more enjoyable living environment.

Trust me, your gerbil will appreciate it!

But how can you balance the risks of escape and potential harm to your gerbil with the benefits of ample space and exploration?

Pros and Cons of Bin Cages for Gerbils

Bin cages are a preferred option for gerbil habitats.

Why, you ask?

Well, for starters, bin cages provide ample space for gerbils to roam around and explore. This is crucial for their physical exercise and overall well-being.

Moreover, if your furry little friend has a tendency to chew on plastic, bin cages have an advantage over glass cages.

They are made of sturdy plastic, which can withstand those chewing habits.

You want to ensure that your gerbils feel safe and comfortable in their home. Bin cages offer just that. With their large size, they allow gerbils to engage in play and exploration, fulfilling their natural instincts.

In summary, the pros of bin cages for gerbils include:

1. Ample space for physical exercise.
2. Sturdy construction for those chewing habits.
3. Room for play and exploration, promoting all in all welfare.

With that being said, bin cages are definitely worth considering for your precious gerbils. 😊

Selecting an Appropriate and Spacious Bin Cage for Gerbils

Gerbils need lots of space, so you should have a minimum 20-gallon cage.

They're energetic little creatures and need room to run around and play.

Get a bin cage so they can stretch their legs and get enough exercise.

Make sure the cage has good ventilation. Gerbils need fresh air to stay healthy. Proper airflow is important for their well-being. So, when picking a cage for your gerbils, remember: go big and keep it airy.

Setting Up a Bin Cage for Gerbils

To set up a bin cage for your gerbils, follow these simple steps:

1. Purchase a clear plastic bin with a secure and escape-proof lid.
2. Measure and mark the center portion of the lid.
3. Use a sharp knife or scissors to carefully cut out the marked area.
4. Attach wire mesh to the opening using zip ties or strong adhesive.
5. Make sure the mesh is securely attached to prevent any gaps or openings.
6. This will ensure proper ventilation within the cage and keep your gerbils safe. 😀
7. Fill the bottom of the bin with bedding material such as wood shavings or paper-based bedding.
8. Add tunnels, platforms, and other gerbil-friendly accessories to create an enriching environment.
9. Place food and water dishes in easily accessible locations.
10. Ensure that there are no sharp edges or hazards inside the cage.
11. Regularly clean and maintain the bin cage to provide a healthy living space for your gerbils.

With these simple steps, you can set up a comfortable and secure bin cage for your gerbils to thrive in. Enjoy watching them explore and play in their new home!

Tips for Maintaining a Bin Cage for Gerbils

When you've got a bin cage for gerbils, here's what you need to do to keep them healthy and happy:

1. Always check the cage for any damage like cracked plastic or sharp edges - gotta fix that so they can't escape.
2. Give 'em some chew toys to distract 'em from gnawing on their plastic home. But don't rely on it too much, it won't solve everything.
3. Use the right bedding for their well-being - stuff like liners, shredded paper, or aspen shavings works great. Steer clear of pine or cedar shavings though, 'cause they smell bad and can be toxic.
4. Before you add anything in there, ensure you clean and disinfect the cage to keep it fresh and prevent stink.
5. Gerbils are social critters, so avoid keeping 'em alone. Consider the room temperature and noise when finding a spot for their cage.
6. If your gerbils start biting and scratching at their cage, they're not happy campers. Throw in some hiding spots and toys to keep their minds busy and entertained.
7. When introducing gerbils to each other, take it slow and careful to avoid any fights or territorial behavior.
8. To stop 'em from chewin' on plastic, cover up any exposed edges or use wire mesh instead.
9. Don't forget - give 'em fresh food and water every day, 'cause they need it to stay healthy and hydrated. 🐹

Creating an Enriched Desert Habitat Within Bin Cages for Gerbils

Create a desert-like home for your gerbils so they can be happy and healthy. Mimicking their natural habitat is key.

Gerbils love rolling in sand, it keeps their fur clean.

Get them special chinchilla sand and put it in a shallow container in their cage.

They'll have so much fun!

Gerbils are social animals and need companionship.

They thrive when they have other gerbils to hang out with.

So it's best to have more than one in the same cage.

Just like you, they get lonely without friends.

Make sure your gerbils have a safe and comfy home.

Give them bedding made especially for gerbils or try aspen bedding.

Avoid cedar or pine bedding because it's not good for their lungs.

Remember to provide proper ventilation and keep their cage away from direct sunlight or drafts.

Also, remember that gerbils like a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Choose a cozy spot for them.

By making their home safe and cozy, you're helping them live their best life.

Your gerbils will be happy and healthy for years to come.

Now, you might be wondering if bin cages could serve as a suitable option for your gerbils' long-term habitats.

Well, let me shed some light on the potential risks and considerations associated with this popular choice!

Common Misconceptions About Bin Cages for Gerbils

Gerbil owners often see bin cages as temporary shelters, but they can actually be a long-term home if you're careful.

Follow these important guidelines for your gerbil's safety and comfort:

1. Choose a sturdy bin made of hard plastic or glass to prevent escape attempts.
2. Add metal mesh or wire for ventilation while keeping security intact.
3. Make sure the bin is spacious enough (at least 10 gallons) for your gerbil to explore and exercise comfortably.
4. Keep your gerbil engaged by providing hiding spots and enrichment inside the bin.
5. Regularly check for wear and tear, like chewed edges, and replace damaged parts promptly to maintain a secure enclosure.

Since gerbils love to chew, keep an eye on their behavior in the bin and make necessary adjustments to keep them safe.

With proper care, a bin cage can create a safe and fun environment for your gerbil to thrive.

And that's all for today, folks!

Before you leave, can I ask you something? Did my blog post help you out? If it did, it would mean the world to me if you could share it with your loved ones. Just click on any of the social media icons for instant sharing. Thanks a bunch!

Until next time,

-Alex Amber