How do I introduce gerbils?

Question

Ok, a few years ago, I raised gerbils, and have just now gotten back into it. I bought three gerbils at the pet store, because I felt really bad about leaving just one. The two boys (Mushu and General Tsao) were together originally, and the girl, Wanton, was on her own. I'm trying to get the three of them to get along, but Wanton isn't going for it so far. I know all about the split cage trick and everything, and I know that this would never work if the settled pair were a boy and a girl, but I've never tried introducing a lone female to two males before. Has anyone else had an experience like this? If so, how'd it go...? Thanks!

Answer 1

I think the best way to introduce your gerbils together would be to get a large secure enclosure, making sure they are lots of toys and things to climb on/in and things for them to hide. Also a few water bottle in case they each claim one and a few small bowls of food so each has one as their own. Then introduce them together, not one by one as this could lead to hostlility. The combination of toys, food,water and hidey holes could be enough to stop immediate fighting as there are things for them to explore. Also watch for a while and if you see any fighting, a loud clap, might prove an adequate distraction. One final tip is when taking them out of their own cage, give it a good clean so the place doesn't smell only of them when they all go back in. O and I forgot, sometimes a quick trip just to get them off balance ( so to speak mentally) like round the garden in the carry cage might be enough that when they are introduced they may huddle together for security if they feel a little scared and insecure. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Answer 2

well I have a specially designed cage for mine the first thing I do is separate the cage in half. Then put one on one side then one on the other. Make sure they can see each other. The next day put them on the floor far from each other then they will find their way to each other. Keep doing this everyday until you're sure that they get along well and can stay in the same cage.

Answer 3

Nope.

Don't do it at all.

You have an established pair or boys and a female.

They will fight to the death and she will end up pregnant over and over again.

PLEASE don't do that.

If you insist on trying, start going to vet school to deal with the eventual injuries and babies. :]

Answer 4

well for like 10 mins aday put them in the same cage whie watchng them and if they like try to kill each other separate them soon they will love eachother