Cedar shavings have the most pleasing smell, but some animals are allergic to them. If you find that cedar shavings do not work, then pine shavings will be fine. Food Being desert animals, gerbils do not drink much water. Nevertheless, you should provide water for them in their cage. Gerbils may eat a variety of foods, but the most important thing is to make sure they get the nutrients they need.
Most stores sell gerbil pellets or mixes of pellets and seeds.
You can make your own mix by purchasing pellets and bird seed separately. It is a good idea to buy a small, but heavy glass bowl to put their food in. Gerbils love to dig constantly, and the heavy bowl will not tip over as easily. Do not place their water in a bowl because they will quickly make a mess. It is best to purchase a hanging water bottle, and it also takes up less space on the floor of their cage.