Gerbils are active and curious little pets that love to play and explore. Providing them with a variety of toys to keep them mentally and physically stimulated is an important aspect of their care.
However, store-bought toys can be expensive and may not always fit the unique needs and preferences of your gerbil. That’s where DIY toys come in! With a little creativity and some household materials, you can make your own gerbil toys that are both fun and budget-friendly.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 easy DIY toy ideas for gerbils, complete with instructions and tips for making the most out of each one. From cardboard tubes to woven balls, these simple toys are sure to keep your gerbil entertained for hours.
Materials to use for DIY toys
The most important factor when making a toy for your gerbil is that the materials used are safe and non-toxic. The last thing you want is for your beloved pet to become sick from chewing on something dangerous.
Avoid any material that could be toxic or lead to health problems. This means avoiding things like paint or glue that may contain toxic chemicals. As an alternative option, look for natural materials like untreated wood or wicker that can provide plenty of entertainment without posing a risk to your pet’s health.
Gerbils Love Cardboard
One of the best materials to use when making DIY toys is cardboard. Not only does it come in many different shapes and sizes which gives you plenty of options for creating fun designs but it also provides great texture for chewing which will help keep their teeth trim and healthy.
Additionally, cardboard is lightweight which makes it easier for your gerbil to move around as they explore their new toy. If you’re looking for ideas on what kind of cardboard shapes would be most entertaining for your pet, consider things like tubes or small houses – just make sure there are no sharp edges!
Paper Towel Rolls Are Perfectly Sized
Another great material for DIY gerbil toys is paper towel rolls. They provide just the right amount of space for a smaller sized animal like a gerbil and can be easily cut into different shapes if desired.
You can even use them as building blocks by stacking the rolls on top of each other and securing them with tape or glue so they stay upright. This will help create tunnels or obstacles which will give your gerbil plenty of room to climb around in and explore their environment!
Untreated wood
Untreated wood is an excellent material to use for DIY toys. Wood pieces can be cut into shapes and assembled together in different ways to create all sorts of puzzles and obstacle courses that your gerbil will love.
The texture of wood provides a good surface for chewing and gnawing which helps to keep their teeth strong and healthy. As with the other materials, make sure that any wood you use is untreated so it doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals.
Easy DIY toy ideas
DIY toys for gerbils are a great way to keep your pet entertained and stimulated. Not only are they easy and inexpensive to make, but they also provide a fun and engaging way for you to bond with your gerbil.
Cardboard Tubes
Cardboard tubes from paper towels or toilet paper are a great way to provide your gerbil with a fun and interactive toy. Simply cut the tube into small sections and place them in your gerbil’s cage. Your gerbil will have a blast running through and exploring the tubes.
Paper Bags or Boxes
Paper bags or boxes can provide a fun and cozy hideout for your gerbil. Simply place the bag or box in the cage and your gerbil will enjoy crawling inside and making it their own.
Woven Balls or Baskets
Woven balls or baskets are a great way to provide your gerbil with a fun and interactive toy. Gerbils love to run and explore, and these toys will provide them with plenty of opportunities to do just that.
Wooden Blocks or Branches
Wooden blocks or branches are another great option for providing your gerbil with a fun and interactive toy. Gerbils love to chew on wood, so these toys will provide them with plenty of opportunities to do just that.
Toilet roll holder
Using a toilet roll holder, hang a toilet roll on it and place it in the cage. Gerbils will enjoy climbing and running through the roll.
Cardboard castle
You can create a cardboard castle for your gerbil using cardboard boxes and a little creativity. Gerbils will enjoy exploring and hiding in the castle.
Tissue Paper Nest
You can make a nest for your gerbil using tissue paper and a small box. Gerbils will enjoy hiding in the nest and shredding the tissue paper.
Chew toys
Gerbils love to chew on things, You can give your gerbil things like apple branches, willow branches, or even a block of untreated wood to chew on.
Exercise wheel
Gerbils need to have a way to exercise, and a wheel is the perfect way to provide that. You can purchase a wheel or make your own by attaching a wooden platform to a plastic or metal wheel.
Cardboard maze
Using a cardboard box, you can create a maze for your gerbil to run through. This will provide them with a fun and interactive way to exercise and explore.
Tips for Making DIY Toys
Before making any DIY gerbil toy, there are a few safety precautions you need to take into consideration. Check for sharp edges or corners on any materials you use as gerbils can easily get their paws caught in them.
Also, avoid using any materials that have been treated with chemicals because they can be toxic if ingested by your pet. Make sure the toys are appropriately sized for your gerbils—you don’t want anything too big or too small that could cause injury.
Keep an eye on your gerbils while they play with the toys. Even if the toy is safe and appropriate size-wise (e.g., no small parts that could be swallowed), it’s still important to supervise them in case the toy needs adjusting or repairing during playtime.
Homemade gerbil toys are a great way to bond with your pet while having fun at the same time. Just remember to always keep safety in mind when making these crafts! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting some amazing homemade gifts that will make both you and your pet smile.
Conclusion
Gerbils are intelligent, active creatures that need plenty of mental stimulation and exercise to stay healthy. DIY gerbil toys provide a great way to keep your pet entertained and engaged for hours at a time.
From cardboard tubes to woven baskets and wooden blocks, there are plenty of fun homemade toys that you can make with minimal cost and effort. Just remember to use safe materials that won’t harm your gerbil if ingested, and always supervise them while they play.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating some amazing homemade gifts that will make both you and your gerbil happy!
