Taking care of a gerbil is similar to other pocket pets such as guinea pigs, hamsters or mice. Gerbils are about the size of a hamster. They often stand on their hind legs. Like mice, they are very fast so you need to protect them from escaping during their daily exercise time outside the cage. Never use a hamster wheel with your gerbil since their tail could get caught in it and injured. Hamsters will fight if kept together but gerbils prefer to live in a group so consider keeping a pair or more together. They are very social and will play with each other and cuddle to keep warm. Commercially available gerbil food provides a good mix of seeds and grain to keep your gerbil healthy. Fruits and vegetables can be given as a treat. Gerbils need fresh, clean water at all times. Learn more from your veterinary clinic Hendersonville NC.