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Post by Kenn on Jan 29, 2005 3:28:27 GMT -8
Can anyone give me some advice on cat-proof gerbil housing? We have two 11 year old cats in the house that weigh about 12 pounds each.
I was thinking of an aquarium would be the strongest and safest option, but I don't want to make any assumptions. Any advice you can share would be appreciated.
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Post by queenofthenile on Jan 29, 2005 7:19:49 GMT -8
The aquarium is easiest and safest. With a cage, my cats try to stick their paws through the bars and swat the gerbils. Jasper, who is a bit "slow", will actually take the assault and then bite the paw. The only problem with aquariums is the cat is bound to sit on the lid and torment the gerbs. You have to ensure the cats can't get on top of the lid.
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Post by lpn1993 on Feb 1, 2005 12:23:42 GMT -8
I agree - an aquarium is probably the best and most secure. I use an aquarium with a screen lid and clips on it, to make sure it doesn't come off. I have a pair of gerbils and I also have a cat. The gerbils' tank is on top of a dresser, and my cat doesn't jump up there or bother them at all. However, my cat is 18 years old and doesn't do much anymore except eat and sleep! But I always make sure the lid is secure, to keep the gerbils in and the cat out. (Just in case!)
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Post by sweetie on Feb 2, 2005 9:33:02 GMT -8
I agree with the aquarium. My cat likes to watch the gerbils and the gerbils like to watch the cat. I have the tanks on a 4 shelve unit that is just big enough to hold the tank. Also when I let them out, I try to make sure they are in the balls or if they are free raoming the cat is out of the house.
The other day, I had the pups running around in the play pen. I thought the cat was out but he wasn't. He comes trotting downstairs and plops next to the play pen by my side. He was more interested in my attention, but I quickly put him out! I am sure my cat would not eat them but as a natural predator, I am sure he would *play* with them a bit. I will not let that happen. Now I will be sure to check the whole house before I let them free roam.
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Post by Kenn on Feb 12, 2005 18:44:13 GMT -8
Thanks for the responses everyone.
Based on what was said, I purchased a 20 gallon (long) aquarium. It is now home to three young female gerbils.
Kenn
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