Gerbils are small, adorable creatures that require a well-balanced diet to thrive and if you own one of them, you should provide them with a variety of healthy foods.
One vegetable that is often debated when it comes to feeding gerbils is beets.
Beets are a root vegetable that is known for their sweet taste and bright color. These vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals, making them a popular choice for human consumption.
Can gerbils eat beets?
When it comes to feeding them to gerbils, many pet owners are left wondering if they are safe for their furry friends to eat.
In this blog post, we will explore this question.
We will take a look at the nutritional value of beets, their potential health benefits, and any potential risks associated with feeding them to gerbils.
Let’s find out more about beets and if they’re suitable for gerbils!
Can Gerbils Eat Beets?
Get ready to treat your gerbil to some delicious beets!
While these colorful veggies are safe for your furry friend to eat, you shouldn’t offer them daily.
Beets are a sweet treat that should be given occasionally, not as a regular part of your gerbil’s diet.
Gerbils love a balanced diet of seeds, grains, and vegetables, so it’s important to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need.
While beets can provide some benefits, they are a bit high in sugar compared to other veggies that are better for your gerbil.
To keep your gerbil happy and healthy, offer a variety of safe veggies in small amounts.
This will provide mental stimulation while foraging and keep their diet balanced.
Sugar Beets
Around 20% of the world’s sugar production comes from sugar beets, which are a variety of beets specially grown for their high sugar content.
Do Gerbils Like Beets?
If you own a gerbil, you know by now that they have their own unique food preferences.
One food that they absolutely love to chow down on is beets!
These root vegetables are not only delicious but they are also packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for your furry friend’s health.
Whether you choose to feed your gerbil raw beet or add some type of flair, they will surely be pleased with this tasty treat.
Beets are a healthy snack for your pet but take it easy on the feeding due to the sugar content.
Are Beets Really That Healthy?
They sure are, and the proof is in the…pudding?
- Calories: 43 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9.56 grams
- Sugars: 6.76 grams
- Fiber: 2.8 grams
- Protein: 1.61 grams
- Fat: 0.17 grams
- Vitamin C: 4.9 mg (8% of the Daily Value)
- Folate: 109 mcg (27% of the Daily Value)
- Vitamin B6: 0.067 mg (3% of the Daily Value)
- Iron: 0.80 mg (5% of the Daily Value)
- Magnesium: 23 mg (6% of the Daily Value)
- Potassium: 325 mg (9% of the Daily Value)
- Phosphorus: 40 mg (4% of the Daily Value)
- Manganese: 0.33 mg (17% of the Daily Value)
- Betaine: 128 mg
- Beta-Carotene: 20 mcg
- Lutein + Zeaxanthin: 8 mcg
- Nitrate: 110 mg
These red gems are a nutritious vegetable with a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
They are low in calories, a good source of dietary fiber, and contain essential nutrients like vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
Including beets in your pet’s diet can be beneficial for overall health, but as with any food, moderation is key.
Pros and Cons of Feeding Beets to Gerbils
Pros of Feeding Beets to Gerbils:
Nutritional Value
Beets are a good source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, folate, and manganese, which can contribute to the overall health of gerbils.
Variety in Diet
Offering beets as an occasional treat can add variety to the gerbils’ diet, making mealtime more enjoyable for them.
Enrichment
Beets can serve as an enrichment item, providing mental stimulation for gerbils as they explore and interact with the new food.
Hydration
Beets have a high water content, which can contribute to keeping gerbils hydrated, especially if they consume small amounts.
Cons of Feeding Beets to Gerbils:
High Sugar Content
Beets are relatively high in sugar, and excessive consumption may lead to weight gain and potential health issues in gerbils.
Digestive Upset
Introducing beets suddenly or in large quantities may cause digestive upset or diarrhea in some gerbils due to their sensitive digestive systems.
Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio
Beets have a low calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which could potentially lead to an imbalance in the gerbils’ diet if fed in large amounts.
Selective Eating
Some gerbils may be selective eaters and may not prefer the taste of beets or may choose other foods over them.
How Much Can Gerbils Safely Eat?
Just a heads up, beets can be a bit sugary for your little gerbil buddies if they’re given in large quantities.
To make sure they get the nutrients without any negative effects, it’s best to give them a small piece about the size of a lime once or twice a week.
That way, they get to enjoy this yummy veggie while staying healthy.
Don’t forget to mix things up for your gerbils to keep them happy!
A balanced diet with a variety of seeds, grains, veggies, and occasional treats like beets will make sure they don’t get bored with their meals.
Fun Ways to Feed Beets to Gerbils
Gerbil Kabobs: Create tiny kabobs by skewering small, thin slices of beets onto a safe wooden stick or a stainless-steel kabob skewer. Place the kabob in their cage, and watch them nibble on the tasty treat!
Beet Hide-and-Seek: Hide small pieces of beets around their enclosure to encourage their natural foraging instincts. They’ll have a blast exploring and finding the hidden treats.
Frozen Beet Chips: Slice beets into thin chips and freeze them. The cold, crunchy texture will be a refreshing and enjoyable surprise for your gerbils.
Beet Puzzle Feeder: Place small beet chunks in a treat puzzle feeder or a foraging toy. Your gerbils will have to work a bit to retrieve the beets, making mealtime a fun and stimulating experience.
Beet Balls: Roll small pieces of beets into little balls using your hands and place them in the cage. Your gerbils will enjoy rolling them around and nibbling on the tasty balls.
Beet Salad: Mix small beet slices with other safe veggies, like carrot or cucumber, and create a colorful salad mix. It’s both visually appealing and nutritious for your little friends.
Color Me Crazy!
In the past, beet juice was used as a natural dye for fabrics, hair, and even ink.
Tasty Snacks For Gerbils
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cucumber
- Zucchini (Courgette)
- Bell Peppers (Red, Green, Yellow)
- Spinach (in small amounts, as it is high in oxalates)
- Lettuce (in small amounts, as some types may cause digestive issues)
- Kale (in moderation, as it is high in calcium)
- Celery (in small amounts, watery)
Can Gerbils Eat Beets?
If you’re a proud gerbil owner, adding beets to their diet in moderation can be a healthy and tasty treat.
Gerbils are omnivores, but their digestive systems are delicate, so it’s essential to introduce new foods gradually and monitor their reaction.
If your gerbil doesn’t seem interested in beets or experiences digestive issues, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Remember, every gerbil is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.