Gerbils vs Mice: Everything You Need to Know

Gerbils and mice are both small rodents that are popular pets. They have some similarities in appearance and behavior, but there are also significant differences between the two species. So, what are the differences between gerbils and mice?

Gerbils and mice are both rodents that can make good family pets. The main difference between a gerbil and a mouse is that gerbils are from the desert, so they are more comfortable living in dry, hot climates. Mice are found more often in forests and urban areas.

While gerbils and mice look very similar, they are quite different. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between gerbils and mice.

What are Gerbils and Mice?

Gerbils and mice are small rodents that are often kept as pets. While they have some similarities, they are distinct species with different characteristics.

Gerbils are small, desert-dwelling rodents native to Africa and Asia. They are typically about 4-5 inches long and have long, furry tails and soft, silky fur. Gerbils are social animals and are best kept in pairs or groups. They are active during the day and enjoy running, digging, and burrowing. Gerbils are omnivorous and enjoy a diet of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Mice, on the other hand, are small rodents found all over the world. There are many species of mice, but the most common species kept as pets is the house mouse. House mice are usually around 2-3 inches long and have short, sleek fur and long, thin tails.

Mice are also social animals and should be kept in pairs or groups. They are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. They enjoy running on wheels, climbing, and exploring. Mice are also omnivorous and enjoy a diet of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables.

While both gerbils and mice make good pets, they have different needs and personalities, so it’s important to research and understand the specific requirements of each species before deciding which one is right for you.

What are the Differences Between Gerbils and Mice as Pets?

There are several differences between gerbils and mice when they are kept as pets. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1. Activity Level: Gerbils are diurnal animals, which means they are most active during the day. They love to run and play, and they need plenty of space to do so. Mice, on the other hand, are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night. They love to climb and explore, and they need plenty of toys and hiding places to keep them entertained.
2. Socialization: Both gerbils and mice are social animals and should be kept in pairs or groups. However, gerbils tend to be more social and enjoy interacting with their human caregivers. They are also less likely to fight with each other than mice.
3. Lifespan: Gerbils typically live longer than mice. The average lifespan of a gerbil is 2-4 years, while the average lifespan of a mouse is 1-2 years.
4. Diet: Gerbils and mice have similar dietary needs and enjoy a mix of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables. However, gerbils have a higher protein requirement than mice, and they may benefit from occasional insect treats like mealworms.
5. Handling: Gerbils are generally easier to handle than mice. They are more curious and friendly, and they tend to be less skittish and jumpy. Mice, on the other hand, can be timid and may require more patience and gentleness when being handled.

Overall, both gerbils and mice can make great pets for the right person. It’s important to research the specific needs of each species and consider your own lifestyle and preferences before choosing which one you should bring into your home.

What are the Advantages of Keeping Gerbils as Pets?

There are several advantages to keeping gerbils as pets. Here are a few:

• Active and Playful: Gerbils love to play with toys and engage in other activities, which can be fun to watch.
• Low Maintenance: Gerbils are relatively low-maintenance pets compared to other animals like dogs or cats. They don’t require walks or trips outside, and they are generally clean animals that don’t need frequent baths.
• Easy to Care for: Gerbils are easy to care for and don’t require a lot of special equipment or supplies. They need a cage with bedding, food, water, and toys, and enjoy a diet filled with foods that are easy to purchase.
• Quiet: Gerbils are relatively quiet animals and don’t make a lot of noise. They are unlikely to disturb neighbors or other people in the household with noise unless their toys make a lot of noise.
• Long Lifespan: Gerbils have a relatively long lifespan for a small pet. This can make them a great choice for people looking for a longer-term pet relationship.

Overall, gerbils are great pets for people looking for a social, active, and low-maintenance pet that doesn’t make a lot of noise. They can be a fun and rewarding addition to any household.

What are the Advantages of Keeping Mice as Pets?

There are several advantages to keeping mice as pets. Here are a few:

1. Small Size: Mice are small animals, which makes them a great choice for people with limited space or who don’t want a larger pet like a dog or cat. They can easily fit into a small cage or enclosure.
2. Low Maintenance: Mice are relatively low-maintenance pets. They don’t require walks or trips outside, and they are generally clean animals that don’t need frequent baths.
3. Inexpensive: Mice are relatively inexpensive pets compared to other animals like dogs or cats. They don’t require a lot of special equipment or supplies, and their food and bedding are relatively inexpensive.
4. Active and Playful: Mice are active and playful animals that enjoy running, jumping, and exploring. They love to play with toys and engage in other activities, which can be fun to watch.
5. Quiet: Mice are relatively quiet animals and don’t make a lot of noise. They are unlikely to disturb neighbors or other people in the household.
6. Short Lifespan: While this may not be an advantage for everyone, some people prefer the shorter lifespan of mice compared to other pets. This can make them a good choice for people who don’t want to commit to having a pet for a long time.

Overall, mice are a great choice for people looking for a small, low-maintenance, and inexpensive pet that is still active and playful. They can be a fun and rewarding addition to any household.