Gerbils are small mammals that live in burrows and eat seeds, leaves, and berries. Gerbils are also known as desert rodents because they are commonly found in arid regions. These little mammals do not drink water, but they can become dehydrated very quickly. If your pet doesnג€™t drink enough fluids or has access to insufficient moisture, they could quickly dehydrate. Dehydration is a condition that results from a lack of proper hydration. Signs of dehydration in gerbils include: an inability to keep their mouth closed, a constant need to moisten the tongue, rapid breathing, soft fur, and lack of appetite.
When your pet gerbil does not have access to sufficient moisture or drink enough water on their own, itג€™s called hyprophereal dehydration. To prevent this from happening to your pet you need to provide them with moist soil or a running stream for them to drink from regularly.
There are several reasons why your pet gerbil may not be drinking water:
How Often Do Gerbils Drink Water?
Gerbils are desert animals and need to drink about 16 ounces of water a day. You can help your pet gerbil drink more water by providing them with a shallow dish made from ceramic or plastic that has drainage holes in it. They will be able to easily access the water without having to dig a hole or move soil around.
How To Know if Your Gerbil Is Dehydrated?
If your pet gerbil doesnג€™t drink water, it could be because they are dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include: an inability to keep their mouth closed, a constant need to moisten the tongue, rapid breathing, soft fur, and lack of appetite.
To know if your pet gerbil is dehydrated you can take your pet to a vet for a checkup. If you decide that your pet needs to go to the vet, make sure you bring them in early enough so they can get fluids hydrated before they become critically dehydrated.
If you’re able to take your pet gerbil with you and they donג€™t seem like themselves, then it may be time for them to visit the vet.
How Much Water Should a Gerbil Drink a Day?
A gerbil should drink at least 3-6 ounces of water per day. The amount of water to provide your pet depends on the size and species.
Will Gerbils Drink From a Water Bowl?
Many pets will drink from a water bowl, but itג€™s important to remember that they will only drink enough to hydrate themselves. If you want them to drink more than their body needs, then you need to provide a source of moisture. Gerbils are no different and will only drink if they have access to moist soil or running water.
