Choosing between a gerbil and a guinea pig can be a tricky decision. Both are amazing animals that have their own unique traits, which make them great pets. But which one is right for you depends on what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re looking for a playful and active pet or something more relaxed, we’ll help you figure out which one is more suitable for you.
Table of Contents
Gerbils vs Guinea Pigs
We’ll start with covering the basic differences between gerbils and guinea pigs as this can help you choose the right pet.
Lifespan
When considering what pet to get you need to consider how long you’re willing to commit to having the pet.
Guinea Pigs generally live longer, with an average lifespan of 5 to 7 years, though some can live up to 8 years or more with proper care. This makes them a longer-term commitment, so it’s important to be prepared for several years of care and companionship.
Gerbils, on the other hand, have a shorter lifespan, typically living between 2 to 4 years. While they still require dedicated care, their shorter lifespan may be more suitable for those looking for a less lengthy commitment.
Physical Characteristics
Gerbils are small rodents, typically measuring 4-5 inches in length. They have short legs and a long, hairless tail that helps with balance. Their fur usually comes in various colors and patterns, ranging from brown to cream.
Guinea pigs, on the other hand, are larger, reaching 8-10 inches long. They have a stocky build, short legs, and rounded bodies. Their ears are more visible compared to gerbils’ small ears. Guinea pigs come in a variety of colours, and types of fur.
Here’s a list of the types of guinea pig coats:
- Short haired: Smooth and easy to care for, ideal for low-maintenance grooming.
- Long haired: Long, flowing fur that needs regular brushing to prevent tangles.
- Abyssinian: Features rosettes of fur, adding a textured, slightly wild look.
- Teddy: Dense, plush fur that feels like a teddy bear, requiring minimal grooming.
- Silkie: Soft, long, smooth fur that flows back over the body, needing regular maintenance
- Skinny Pigs: Skinny pigs are mostly hairless, with just a bit of fur on their noses and feet. Their lack of fur makes them unique, but they do require a bit of extra care to keep their skin healthy and warm.
Native Habitats and History
Gerbils originate from the desert regions of Asia, particularly Mongolia. They have adapted well to dry environments, needing less water than other rodents. Their burrowing habits allow them to create homes underground, providing protection from predators.
Guinea pigs are native to South America. They were domesticated by the Incas and are often found in grassy areas. Unlike gerbils, guinea pigs are social animals that thrive in groups. Their history with humans has made them popular pets around the world due to their friendly nature and easy care.
Caring for Guinea PIgs and GErbils
Creating the right housing and environment for your pet is key to their health and happiness. Consider the size of the cage, how you set it up, and the type of bedding you use to ensure your pet thrives.
Cage Size and Setup
Your pet’s cage should match its needs. Gerbils need a cage that is 10 gallons per gerbil, and they thrive in setups that have tunnels and hiding spots. Unlike other rodents, more space isn’t always better for gerbils so the maximum rule that’s explained here is 10 gallons per gerbil. Using materials like wood, plastic, or cardboard will keep them active and engaged.
Guinea pigs, on the other hand, need more space. A minimum of 120x60cm is recommended for two guinea pigs, but more room is better. Their cage should include areas for hiding and plenty of surface to roam. You might also consider a multi-level setup to give them more area to explore but the minimum floor size should always be 120x60cm.
Bedding and Burrowing
Bedding plays an important role in your pet’s comfort. Gerbils enjoy burrowing, so use materials like aspen shavings or paper-based bedding. Avoid cedar or pine shavings as they can be harmful.
Guinea pigs need soft bedding that won’t irritate their skin. Options like carefresh as well or noodle bath mats work well. Each guinea pig should have their own hide that they’ll use to sleep and to chill in. The hide must have two exits to ensure that they can leave to avoid fighting if one piggy becomes territorial. We recommend a wooden house or tunnel, but you can also use a washable tunnel made from materials like fleece.
Diet and Nutrition
Feeding your gerbil or guinea pig the right diet is essential for their health and happiness. Both animals have specific dietary needs.
Daily Dietary Requirements
Your gerbil’s diet mainly consists of seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables. They are omnivores, so their meals should be varied to keep them healthy. You should provide fresh hay daily for fiber, which is important for their digestion.
Guinea pigs, being herbivores, need a high-fiber diet too. They thrive on hay such as timothy hay and meadow hay, pellets, and fresh vegetables. Since guinea pigs can’t make their own vitamin C, you should give them vegetables rich in this vitamin, like bell peppers, parsley, broccoli stems and oxbow vitamin c treats. Always ensure they have access to fresh water and hay.
Treats for Guinea PIgs vs Gerbils
When it comes to treats, offering fresh vegetables and occasional fruits can be a great way to spoil your pets. Gerbils enjoy treats like small pieces of carrot or apple, but keep the portions small. Limit sugary fruits to prevent obesity. Always wash fruits and vegs before feeding them to gerbils and if you can afford to, buy organic options.
For guinea pigs, treats should focus on fresh options too. Good choices include leafy greens and small fruit pieces such as small pieces of oranges or watermelon. Although they can eat small amounts of sweet potato, giving them too many starchy vegetables. Remember, variety is key. Mixing up their vegetables keeps their meals interesting and nutritious. Always wash fresh produce to remove pesticides, and if possible buy organic.
Which animal is more social?
Gerbils and guinea pigs are both social animals that thrive on interaction. Gerbils enjoy companionship but can do well in pairs or small groups. They are active playmates and often engage in exciting social displays with each other.
Guinea pigs, on the other hand, are more dependent on their social structure. You must have at least 2 guinea pigs. They should be kept in pairs or groups to avoid loneliness. Always keep them in same-sex groups to avoid unwanted pregancies, whilst neuteuring males is an option there are risks involved. Without a companion, guinea pigs may experience stress and show signs of depression. Their social interactions include vocalizations, grooming, and cuddling, which strengthen their bonds.
Activity Levels and Play
When it comes to activity, both gerbils and guinea pigs are playful. Gerbils are particularly known for their bursts of energy. They love to dig, run, and explore their surroundings. Providing tunnels and exercise wheels can keep them engaged.
Guinea pigs also need plenty of space to run and play. They enjoy activities like chasing each other and exploring new spaces. Creating an enriched environment with toys encourages their natural behaviors. Remember, interacting with your pets through play is essential. This not only provides exercise but also strengthens your bond with them.
GRooming
Grooming your gerbil or guinea pig is an essential part of care. Each type of pet has specific grooming needs.
For guinea pigs:
- Brush their fur weekly to prevent mats.
- Regular baths are not typically needed but clean their cage often to avoid odors.
For gerbils:
- They usually self-groom, so minimal brushing is required.
- Ensure their habitat is clean and dry to avoid skin issues.
Tips for maintaining hygiene:
- Provide fresh food and water daily.
- Clean the cage weekly to keep your pet healthy and stress-free.
Health Issues
It’s important to keep a close eye on your pet’s health. Look for signs of illness, such as changes in appetite, behavior, or weight.
Common health issues in both animals include:
- Dental problems: Rodents have continuously growing teeth. Provide chew toys to help keep their teeth trimmed.
- Respiratory infections: Watch for sneezing or wheezing, which can indicate a problem. Avoid bedding that is dusty.
- Obesity: Ensure a balanced diet to prevent weight issues. Don’t feed too many sugary treats such as fruit. Most pet store treats are also unsuitable.
- Bumblefoot: Rodents including guinea pigs and gerbils are prone to getting an infection in their feetpads called bumblefoot. It’s quite painful. Minimise the risks by ensuring their cage is clean, avoid using mesh/wiring as flooring and never use hamster balls.
Handling and Bonding
Handling your pet is essential for building a bond. For gerbils, always scoop them gently from below rather than grabbing them. This helps them feel secure. They tend to be curious and will often explore your hands if you allow them.
Guinea pigs are larger and need a bit more support. Cradle them against your body to keep them calm. Regular handling for both animals can lead to affectionate behavior, which they may show through purring or climbing onto your shoulders.
Training and Mental Stimulation
Training your pets can be a fun way to engage with them. Gerbils can be litter trained with patience and consistency. Start by placing a litter box in their chosen corner. Reward them when they use it with treats.
Guinea pigs respond well to simple commands, like “come” or “sit.” Use fresh veggies as rewards to encourage this. You can also place some treats or nuggets amongst the guinea pigs hay to help encourage foraging.
Incorporate daily playtime outside their cage, allowing them to explore safely. This not only keeps them active but also strengthens your bond. Providing a variety of toys can keep their minds engaged, reducing boredom.
Hope you found this guide helpful. If you’ve deided that a guinea pig is for you, make sure to check out our othe guinea pig guides. Instead of buying a guinea pig, you could consider rescuing one. Find a local rescue with our guinea pig rescue database (covers the UK and USA).
