Can Gerbils Go in a Ball for Fun?

Are you wondering about fun ways to get your gerbil to exercise?

After all, they’re like little bundles of energy! 

Pet owners enjoy their playful antics and speedy movements especially when they bring a burst of fun into a room. 

You might have wondered, can gerbils go in a ball?

These plastic spheres allow gerbils to freely run around while being enclosed within the ball. 

The concept of a gerbil ball may seem like a fun way for your pet to exercise and explore, but you should still consider its safety.

Today, we’ll delve into the world of fun and adventure with your gerbil and see whether or not gerbil balls are suitable.

If you are considering purchasing a gerbil ball for your furry friend, this informative piece will provide you with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision.

Can Gerbils Be In a Ball?

The truth is that some pet owners use exercise balls while others don’t. Similarly, some gerbils enjoy going in them, while others don’t.

In essence, gerbils can go in a ball, but it might not be best for them.

While gerbil balls may seem like a fun way for your pet to explore their surroundings, it may not be the most pleasant experience.

 Gerbils are active animals that need plenty of space to run, jump, and burrow.

 A gerbil ball may restrict their movement and prevent them from engaging in these natural behaviors. 

Keep in mind too that gerbils have sensitive respiratory systems and the plastic material of the ball can trap dust and other irritants, leading to respiratory issues. 

Do Gerbils Use Balls?

Gerbils love to run and explore, and exercise balls provide them with a fun and stimulating way to do so. 

The balls are designed to be safe and secure, with air holes that allow the gerbils to breathe comfortably. 

They also prevent other pets or children from accidentally stepping on or injuring the gerbil while they are exploring. 

Your gerbils should not be kept in the exercise ball for extended periods of time, as they still need access to their cage for food, water, and rest. 

 Also, not all gerbils enjoy them and some people have mentioned that gerbils may actually be stressed by them.

Can You Put Gerbils in a Ball Safely?

The answer is yes, gerbils can be put in a ball, but you should still follow some guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being.

Firstly, choose the right size of the ball.

The ball should be big enough to allow the gerbil to move around comfortably, but not too big that the gerbil could escape or get stuck.

Limit the amount of time the gerbil spends in the ball to 15-20 minutes and 30 minutes tops, at a time. 

Gerbils are active animals and need to exercise regularly, but they can become exhausted or stressed if left in the ball for too long.

You should also supervise the gerbil while it is in the ball to ensure it doesn’t get into any dangerous situations such as falling down stairs or getting trapped under furniture.

Can Gerbils Go in Hamster Balls?

Gerbils and hamsters both love to run and play, which is why many pet owners use exercise balls to provide them with a safe and stimulating way to get some exercise outside of their cages. 

While hamsters are commonly seen using exercise balls, many people wonder if gerbils can use them too.

The answer is yes, gerbils can use hamster balls just like hamsters can. 

But you have to choose the right size ball for your gerbil. 

Gerbils are smaller and more agile than hamsters, so they require a smaller ball to ensure their safety. 

A ball that is too big can make it difficult for a gerbil to maneuver and can result in injury.

You’ll have to supervise your gerbil while they are in the ball to prevent any accidents or injuries.

And again, remember that your gerbil, may or may not enjoy actually being in a ball. 

What Exercise Ball is Suitable for Gerbils?

When choosing an exercise ball, make sure it’s small enough for your gerbil to maneuver easily.

 A ball that’s too big can result in injury if the gerbil becomes trapped or cannot control its movements. 

On the other hand, a ball that’s too small may not provide enough space for the gerbil to move around and could cause discomfort.

 The recommended size for an exercise ball for gerbils is around 6-8 inches in diameter. 

Choose a ball made of a sturdy, non-toxic material such as plastic.

 Some balls are made of materials like glass or wood that can break or splinter, posing a hazard to your gerbil. 

Always supervise your gerbil while it’s in the ball to ensure their safety and avoid leaving them in the ball for extended periods of time. 

How Long Can Gerbils Go in a Ball?

It’s recommended that gerbils should only be in an exercise ball for a maximum of 30 minutes at a time. 

This is because gerbils are very active and can quickly become exhausted in the confined space of the ball.

Also, gerbils need access to food, water, and a place to rest, which they cannot access while inside the ball. 

Monitor your gerbils while they are in the ball and remove them after 30 minutes to avoid any potential health issues.

Expanding on this topic, remember that not all gerbils enjoy being in an exercise ball. 

Some may become stressed or scared and try to escape, which can result in injury. 

While exercise balls can be a fun and stimulating activity for gerbils, you should use them responsibly and in moderation.

What Toys Are Safe for Gerbils?

Toys are a great way to keep gerbils entertained and engaged. Not all toys are suitable for gerbils though, and some may even pose a risk to their health and well-being.

When choosing toys for gerbils, you should consider their natural behavior and preferences. 

Gerbils love to dig and burrow, so providing them with toys that mimic these activities, such as tunnels and hideouts, can be a great way to keep them entertained. 

Chew toys are also essential for gerbils as they help keep their teeth healthy and prevent overgrowth.

Avoid toys made of plastic or other materials that can be easily chewed and ingested, as this can lead to digestive issues or even blockages in their intestines.

 When in doubt, it’s always best to opt for toys that are specifically designed for gerbils and have been tested for safety.

Here’s a list to help you get started:

Tunnels and Tubes: Gerbils love to explore and hide in tunnels and tubes.

Exercise Wheels: Provide them with a safe wheel for running and burning off energy.

Wooden Chew Toys: Gerbils enjoy gnawing on wooden toys to keep their teeth healthy.

Climbing Platforms: Platforms and ramps give them opportunities to climb and explore.

Cardboard Boxes: Empty cardboard boxes become cozy hideouts and chew toys.

Seesaws: Small seesaws offer simple fun for gerbils to play on.

Ladders: Ladders encourage climbing and add an element of excitement to their habitat.

Hanging Toys: Objects that hang from the cage provide mental and physical stimulation.

Ball Run Toys: Gerbils enjoy pushing small balls through tracks and tubes.

Digging Boxes: Fill a box with safe bedding material for gerbils to dig and burrow in.

Are Exercise Balls Good for Gerbils?

One benefit of exercise balls is that they allow gerbils to explore their surroundings outside of their cage. 

This can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors.

They can provide physical exercise for gerbils who may not have access to a large enough cage or wheel.

On the other hand, exercise balls can also be stressful for some gerbils. 

Some may feel trapped and unable to escape, leading to increased anxiety and even injury if they try to chew their way out. 

So, if you do choose to use one, supervise your gerbils while they are in the ball and only use them for short periods of time.

Can Gerbils Go In a Ball?

To sum up, while gerbils are known for their love of running and playtime, placing them in a ball may not be the best option for their well-being and safety. 

Gerbils are prone to overheating, injury, and stress when placed in a ball, making it a less than ideal accessory for their playtime.

Instead, providing a safe and spacious environment with plenty of toys and opportunities for exercise is the best way to ensure your gerbil’s happiness and health.

You can try it out, but your pet should use it for a short time and be supervised during playtime.