Gerbils are cute and unpretentious creatures that look like little mice. They are clean and friendly, and breed easily in captivity. All this makes the gerbil one of the most popular domestic rodents. But when acquiring an animal, remember that you need to tame it so that it does not fear you. How can this be done?
It is necessary
A treat for rodents, such as raisins, peanut seeds, or sunflower seeds
Instructions
Step 1
The key to successful domestication will be the young age of the gerbil. But don't overdo it: a baby taken away from its mother too early may have nutritional problems. The ideal age for a gerbil ready to move into a new home is six to eight weeks. Remember that these creatures do not like being alone, so it is better to keep them in pairs. In this case, taming will be more successful.
Step 2
First, your gerbil needs to get used to your hands. To do this, place your hand in the cage and do not make sudden movements. Gradually, the animal will grow bolder and come up to sniff your palm. This may not happen right away, so be patient. The hand should be kept in the cage for several minutes a day.
Step 3
As soon as the animal stops being afraid, begins to calmly come up and touch the fingers, start giving treats from your hand, for example, sunflower seeds or peanuts. As you hand your gerbil a treat, lovingly repeat her name. This will give a particularly good effect if the animal has not received this feeding anywhere else, except from the hands. Then the closeness of the person will cause the gerbil to associate with a particularly tasty food.
Step 4
As soon as the animal begins to take food from your palm without fear, try to pick it up in your hands. This must be done very carefully, with both hands. Never grab your gerbil by the tail - you could injure it this way.
Step 5
If you are afraid to harm your pet, but you still need to remove it from the cage, use a regular liter jar. Place the jar so your gerbil can climb into it. Out of curiosity, she can do it herself, especially if you put delicious food in the jar.
Step 6
After taking your gerbil out of the cage, try placing the animal on your arm or shoulder. The gerbil will begin to examine the hand, running along it, reaching the shoulder and going back down. Secure your pet to prevent it from falling to the floor.
Step 7
At first, try to keep your hand with your gerbil above the sofa or bed so that your pet does not get injured when falling. Treat the animal with something tasty when it sits on your shoulder so that it has pleasant associations with your hands.
Step 8
If you repeat this type of exercise every day, very soon the gerbil will begin to ask for hands on its own, lifting up on its hind legs and turning towards you. Be gentle and patient with your pet, and his trust in you is guaranteed.
