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Post by gerbilman on Mar 2, 2015 5:22:10 GMT -8
So I want to get my gerbils hamster balls. Due to the fact I don't want them roaming in rooms. I don't want them to chew paint or the walls etc. I was at petsmart yesterday and noticed the balls. I was about to buy it. But I didn't I want to know what size and color to get. And do I have to get 2 of them and put them in each one at the same time. Or can you do it one is out then take turns?
Thanks
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Post by Thelodar on Mar 2, 2015 6:02:43 GMT -8
I have used the balls, all of mine get the hang of it eventually but it takes a little while and they are scared at first. I know they are feeling better about it when they stop pooping in the ball. What i do want to say is that roaming in the balls is nothing like being able to roam freely. They can't really sniff or interact with the world and they can't move normally. It's more like running on a wheel. So even if you do use the balls sometimes I'd suggest setting up a play pen or using a bathtub so they can still get some free roaming play time. You can either get them both a ball or have them take turns, it doesn't matter to them as they can't interact while in the balls. I suggest using clear balls so they can see a bit more normally. As for size, it depends what sizes they come in. Something around 7-8 inches in diameter is probably good. Basically if it looks like a chinchilla or guinea pig will fit in it it's too big. If it looks just right for a mouse it's too small.
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Post by pyrotarukia on Mar 2, 2015 9:02:06 GMT -8
Each gerbil is different when it comes to hamster balls I try and avoid them as much as possible but I do always have one each for them anyway. Out of my current 2 Loki took to his straight away and just loved it climbed in it even when he wasn't meant to when it was just laying around during play time, Genji however doesn't really care for them at all he will just sit still whenever you put him in it or will just refuse to go in at times (which is fine I don't force them). The best ones I'd personally recommend are medium sized and clear because I think the colour would perhaps enhance any fright that the ball may cause as having all your senses taken away like Thelodar said and then the world change colour I'd assume would be terrifying.
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Post by crittercrazy on Mar 2, 2015 10:49:34 GMT -8
My experience is that most gerbils don't like balls. Could you maybe put them in a bathtub? That way they won't chew on anything but will still be able to explore more.
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Post by gerbilman on Mar 2, 2015 12:48:44 GMT -8
Well I think I'm going to get just one try it out then buy another if they like it. I put them in the batting. I put some bedding from there cage in there and spread it around then put toys from there tank and hideouts. Should I buy new toys and hideouts just for the bathtub and do I put there bedding in it to prevent fighting?
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Post by Thelodar on Mar 2, 2015 12:59:12 GMT -8
I use different toys for play time than they have in their home. I think it is more stimulating/exciting for them to be exploring new stuff. It's also the only time mine get their sand bath. I do not put bedding in, though I do lay down a liner (a bed sheet which I just shake out after each use) since I'm using a play pen not the bathtub and don't want them going to the bathroom on my carpet. Not sure about it preventing fighting though, perhaps someone else would know more about this.
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Post by gerbilman on Mar 2, 2015 13:02:46 GMT -8
Ok thanks in have old hamster toy which im going to clean again and use there plastic though but I'll watch them for chewing it I'll have to get new toys when I get paid. I'll have to get them a sand bath again I used to but they just kicked it all over.
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