What Do Gerbils Eat?
Gerbils may be tiny animals, but they have big nutritional needs. So it’s important to understand what fuels these energetic little pets.
Here’s everything you need to know about your gerbil’s diet to help them thrive for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Pellets should make up about 90% of a gerbil’s diet to provide complete, balanced nutrition.
- Fresh vegetables and fruits should be limited to small amounts—no more than 10% of your gerbil’s daily calories.
- Seeds and nuts are high in fat and should only be given occasionally as treats.
- Store-bought treats can be a fun option, but avoid products with too much sugar.
- Gerbils need constant access to fresh, clean water to stay hydrated and healthy.
What Do Gerbils Eat?
Gerbils thrive on a balanced diet made up primarily of high-quality pellets, with small amounts of fresh foods and occasional treats. Their nutritional needs are simple, but getting the right balance is key to supporting their energy, digestion, and overall health.
A healthy gerbil diet includes:
- A primary base of complete, balanced pellets
- Small portions of fresh vegetables and fruits
- Occasional seeds, nuts, or store-bought treats
- Constant access to fresh, clean water
Pellets (Primary Diet)
Pellets should make up about 90% of your gerbil’s diet. They provide complete, balanced nutrition, including:
- Protein to support muscle growth and repair
- Fiber to keep their digestive system moving
- Healthy fats to provide energy and support healthy skin
- Essential vitamins like A, D, E, and B-complex vitamins—to help with everything from vision to nervous system function
- Essential minerals—including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and iron—to support skeletal health, muscle and nerve function, and oxygen transport throughout the body
Look for vet-approved pellet formulas that are specifically formulated for gerbils. These ensure optimal nutrient ratios without fillers or artificial additives.
Vegetables
Gerbils can eat a variety of vegetables in small amounts. Always opt for organic veggies when possible to minimize exposure to pesticides and fertilizers.
While vegetables can’t replace pellets, they tend to have high water content—which helps with hydration—and lots of fiber, which supports healthy digestion. They also provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Gerbil-safe vegetables include:
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
- Leafy greens (like romaine lettuce or spinach—offered sparingly)
Always cut vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces before serving.
Fruits
Fruit can be a tasty, enriching treat—but don’t overdo it. Choose organic fruit whenever possible to reduce pesticide exposure.
Remember: fruit is only a treat—and along with veggies, seeds, and store-bought treats—should make up no more than 10% of your gerbil’s daily calories. Most fruit is high in sugar, and too much can lead to weight gain, dental issues, stomach upset, or even diabetes.
Gerbil-safe fruits include:
- Apples (with seeds removed)
- Strawberries (with leaves removed)
- Blueberries
- Bananas (peel removed)
- Pears
Cut all fruits into bite-size pieces before offering.
Seeds and Nuts
Seeds and nuts are high in fat, so they should only be offered occasionally—not daily—and always in moderation.
Gerbil-safe options include:
- Sunflower seeds (unsalted only; shells are fine for enrichment)
- Pumpkin seeds (unsalted only; shells are fine for enrichment)
- Sesame seeds
- Peanuts (unsalted only; shells removed to reduce choking risk)
- Almonds (unsalted only; offered in tiny slivers or pieces)
Store-Bought Gerbil Treats
Store-bought treats can be a fun enrichment option—as long as they’re low in sugar and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Choose treats made by trusted brands like FurPetVo that prioritize natural ingredients and species-appropriate nutrition. Look for options that list whole foods first—such as dried apple, banana, or timothy hay—and avoid anything with added sugars or corn syrup.
Fresh Water
Gerbils need constant access to fresh, clean water. Water supports digestion, hydration, and overall health. A water bottle is ideal—it prevents spills, stays cleaner longer, and mimics natural drinking behavior.
Gerbil Feeding Tips
Follow these simple tips to help keep your gerbil’s diet balanced and on track:
- Offer pellets in the morning and evening using a tip-proof bowl designed for small pets.
- Give your gerbil a measured portion at each feeding—your veterinarian can help determine the right amount based on age, size, and activity level.
- Let your gerbil graze on pellets throughout the day. This supports their natural foraging instincts.
- Keep all treats—including fruits, veggies, seeds, nuts, and store-bought options—to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.
FAQs About Gerbil Food
What foods are toxic to gerbils?
Chocolate, caffeine, garlic, onions, and alcohol are all toxic to gerbils and must be avoided. Citrus fruits—like oranges, lemons, and limes—can severely irritate their digestive systems and should also be kept off the menu.
Can gerbils eat carrots?
Yes—carrots are safe and nutritious for gerbils when cut into small, manageable pieces.
Can gerbils eat apples?
Yes, apples are safe in moderation. Always remove the seeds (which contain trace amounts of cyanide) and offer only tiny, bite-sized portions.
Can gerbils eat strawberries?
Yes—strawberries are safe in small amounts. Cut them into bite-size pieces and remove the green leafy tops, which can be hard to digest.
How often should you feed a gerbil?
Offer pellets twice daily—morning and evening—and provide fresh water at all times. Treats (fruits, veggies, seeds, or FurPetVo-approved snacks) can be given a few times per week, in very small quantities.
