Does a gerbil need to be given a bath?

Question

We have had this gerbil for only two days and my sons have given it a bath or gotten it wet twice already. I worry that it will get sick, especially at this time of year. Does a gerbil need to be given a bath? If so, how often? Also, I read that the bedding needs to be changed everyday. Is that really necessary or is once a week sufficient? Thanks for all your help!

Answer 1

Gerbils, among other rodents, should never be placed in water. It removes natural oils in their coat and in the end, can kill them. Tha animals groom themselves, there is no need for a bath.

As for the bedding, once or twice a week is fine depending on cage size. Cages need not be changed unless they are stinky or the bedding is very soiled/wet.

Answer 2

I kept Gerbils for years and never had need to give one a bath as they are very clean animals always seem to be washing themselves.
I used to change the bedding once a week no more frequent than that!

Answer 3

No! As long as the cage is kept clean, they are very good at keeping themselves clean. Depending on how many gerbils you have and the size of the cage, you'll need to change the bedding more often. I would recommend at least once a week changes.

Answer 4

I would get a guinea pig. I've done lots of research on them, and even though I've never had one, they seem to be a really good pet. They're cute and furry! You should do some research about them though, because they have some specific needs. And make sure you get at least 2 of them because they need company. For the Genders, 2 girls, or 2 boys would be good if you don't want any baby guinea pigs. I've heard stuff about 2 boys not being nice to each other when they're together, but I've also heard from other places that that isn't true. As for the color, It all depends on your taste. Check out this site! Good luck!

Answer 5

gerbils are just like any other rodent..you dont want to ever get them wet..they can get sick if they get wet and cold..all rodents clean themselves just like a cat..you may need to emphasize this on your kids not to get the poor little thing wet..my daughter has hamsters..we only change the bedding once a week and it seems to be just fine and there is no smell..also, get a book on gerbils..they are very helpful..good luck..

Answer 6

Gerbils really shouldn't be bathed at all. Rodents, like cats, groom themselves regularly. If you keep the cage clean, the rodent is clean.

Answer 7

No, he doesn't need a bath. He cleans himself.
His bedding should be changed often and especially if it get's wet but maybe not every single day.

Answer 8

They don't need and shouldn't be washed and doing so can cause them to be chilled...get sick and/or die. The only small animal I've given a bath to are coated guinea pigs (show Silkies and Peruvians, very longhaired) and even with them you don't do it casually and must be careful. Please tell them not to and explain the risks.

Answer 9

Well,see....I have a hamster and he cleans himself regularly,like a cat! So,I suggest not cuz' you gotta be careful about the water temperature and about how cold it will get after the bath! Be careful and I wish you the best of luck!

Answer 10

once a week is ok... i used to do a easy change once a wek and do a really good thorough clean every month... it really depends how clean you are... if you dont expose your gerbil to cold weather then nothing bad will happen to it... and if you wanna have a clean gerbil...give it a bath! just dont drown it...XP have fun!