Gerbils are natural burrowers — they need deep bedding and a chew-proof enclosure to thrive. Standard wire cages are unsuitable because gerbils chew through bars, bedding falls through the base, and the depth isn’t enough for burrowing. The best option is a gerbilarium — a glass tank with a topper.
Best Gerbil Enclosures Compared
| Product | Type | Size (L×W×H) | Deep Bedding? | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKEA Detolf (DIY hack) | Glass display case | 163×43×37 cm | ✅ Excellent | Best value large tank | ~£60–£70 |
| Bucatstate Glass Tank | Gerbilarium | 100×50×50 cm | ✅ Excellent | Purpose-built | ~£80–£120 |
| Skyline Marrakesh | Glass + mesh topper | 98×52×55 cm | ✅ Good | Ready-to-use | ~£100–£150 |
| Ferplast Gabry | Glass + topper | 80×45×60 cm | ✅ Good | Smaller pairs | ~£80–£110 |
| PawHut Wooden | Wood + glass front | Various | ⚠️ Moderate | Aesthetic | ~£60–£100 |
Note: Tanks sold as “gerbilariums” at chain pet shops (e.g., Mayfair, Savoy) are often too small and do not meet UK welfare standards.
Minimum Cage Size (UK Welfare Standards)
| Organisation | Pair of Gerbils | 3+ Gerbils |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cross | 100 × 40 × 40 cm | 120 × 40 × 40 cm |
| Woodgreen Pets | 100 × 50 × 50 cm | Bigger is always better |
| RSPCA | No specific dimensions published — recommends spacious tank with deep bedding | — |
Floor space matters more than height. Gerbils are burrowers, not climbers.
Why Glass Beats Wire
| Feature | Glass Tank | Wire Cage |
|---|---|---|
| Deep bedding? | ✅ 20–30 cm possible | ❌ Falls through bars |
| Chew-proof? | ✅ Yes | ❌ Gerbils gnaw bars |
| Escape-proof? | ✅ With mesh lid | ⚠️ Gaps can appear |
| Observation? | ✅ Full visibility of burrows | ⚠️ Limited view |
| Injury risk? | ✅ Low | ❌ Feet caught in bars |
Bedding Guide
- Minimum depth: 20 cm (8 inches) — aim for 25–30 cm
- Best substrates: Paper-based (Carefresh, Kaytee), aspen shavings, or meadow hay mix
- ❌ Avoid: Cedar or pine shavings (toxic oils), cotton wool (impaction risk)
- Layer tip: Mix paper bedding with hay — gerbils use hay to stabilise burrow tunnels
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gerbilarium?
A glass tank with a secure mesh lid or topper. It allows deep bedding for burrowing while being chew-proof and escape-proof — the best housing for gerbils.
Can I use a fish tank for gerbils?
Yes — large glass aquariums work brilliantly. Add a secure mesh lid for ventilation. The IKEA Detolf (laid on its back) is a popular budget option.
How deep should gerbil bedding be?
At least 20 cm (8 inches), ideally 25–30 cm. Gerbils are natural burrowers and need deep substrate for mental stimulation and natural behaviour.
Are wire cages bad for gerbils?
Yes — gerbils chew bars (damaging teeth), bedding falls through, and their feet can get caught. Glass tanks or gerbilariums are strongly recommended.