Caring for any pet is a big responsibility. Pets are dependent on the people who care for them for everything, so meeting their basic needs must be a priority. Providing fresh, healthy food, clean water, and a comfortable place to rest and receive shelter are the basics. When basic needs are met, along with a good dose of love, pets thrive. This is also true of the baby gerbil.
Keep in mind that in the first days of life, the baby gerbil will be cared for by the parents. Gerbils are recognized for taking good care of their babies, called puppies. If there is a problem with the parents, you may need to step in and assist them with providing proper care for their newborns.
If the mother has no interest in caring for her babies, you need to ensure that the puppies are kept warm. A heat lamp on a low setting may be helpful, but don’t put it too close to a baby gerbil. Make sure the heat is not too strong for fragile new pups.
In some cases, scents or odors that the mother gerbil finds offensive may lead her to abandon the baby. Due to this issue, you should always make sure your hands are washed and rinsed thoroughly before handling a baby gerbil. As with any baby animal, it is always important to be extremely careful and gentle.
Another situation in which you may need to assist in caring for a baby gerbil is if the mother is not able to provide proper nourishment for her pup. If one puppy appears smaller than the others, he or she may not be getting enough sustenance. Supplemental feeding may be necessary. Many baby animals can be fed with a clean eyedropper. You may wish to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best type of milk to use and the proper amount to feed the puppy.
If a baby gerbil appears to be sick, it is probably a good idea to separate him or her from the other puppies as well as the parents. Doing so can help prevent the others from becoming ill as well. If you feel the ailment is serious, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for advice. Never try to give animals medicine that is intended for humans unless it is under the direct advice and supervision of a professional.