How to convert an aquarium into a gerbil cage

If you have an that you’re no longer using for fish, you can actually repurpose it as a home for a . Gerbils are great pets, but many people don’t know where to house them. This is where an aquarium can come in handy! Here are the steps you’ll need to take to turn your aquarium into a gerbil cage. Step 1: Clean the Aquarium Your first step is to thoroughly the aquarium. This is important, as you don’t want any lingering bacteria or substances that could harm your gerbil. Use a non-toxic cleaner to spritz down the aquarium, making sure to clean the walls, bottom, and any decor you plan to use. After you’ve cleaned everything, rinse the aquarium thoroughly with water to remove any lingering cleaning solution. Step 2: Choose a Lid/Fencing Gerbils are skilled climbers and jumpers, so you’ll need a lid for your aquarium to keep them from escaping. You can choose a wire mesh lid or opt for a metal one, which will protect your gerbil even better. While will keep the gerbil inside, it won’t provide any ventilation. Step 3: Add Substrate Substrate is the material that will line the bottom of your gerbil’s new habitat. Choose a dust-free option, like aspen shavings, but avoid pine or cedar chips, as they can be harmful to your pet. Give your gerbil at least several inches of substrate so they can dig and burrow if they so desire. Step 4: Provide Hideaways Gerbils love to have places to hide and feel secure, so it’s a good idea to provide some sort of cave or tunnel. You can purchase one from a pet store, or make one yourself using cardboard or PVC pipe. Make sure it’s big enough for your gerbil to climb inside comfortably. Step 5: Supply Food and Water Your gerbil will need a steady supply of fresh food and water. You can provide a water bottle that attaches to the side of the aquarium, or use a heavy bowl that can’t be flipped over. Make sure to change the water every day to avoid bacteria growth. For food, you can use a gravity feeder that dispenses pellets, or choose a bowl that can be easily cleaned and refilled. Step 6: Add Toys and Chews Gerbils love to chew and play, so provide them with various toys to keep them entertained. They’ll enjoy things like wooden blocks, tunnels, and ladders. Make sure that any toys and chews you provide are safe, and avoid anything with sharp edges. Step 7: Monitor Temperature Gerbils prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18.3-23.9°C), so make sure that the room you keep their cage in stays within this range. If it gets too cold, your gerbil could go into hibernation, and if it gets too hot, they could suffer from heat stroke. Turning an old aquarium into a gerbil cage is easy, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run. With just a few steps, you can create a cozy and safe home for your furry pet. Just remember to clean the cage regularly, provide fresh food and water, and give your gerbil plenty of toys and hideaways. With a little effort, your gerbil will thrive in their new home!