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Post by spaniard on Feb 13, 2005 14:35:16 GMT -8
Can you give your gerbils branches from outside?
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Post by callimico on Feb 13, 2005 15:35:48 GMT -8
Yes- they love them!! Safe branches are from hazel, beech, maple, birch, willow, or fruit trees. I think Pine is unsafe, but it's ok to leave the leaves on the other branches. Freezing them for a day usually takes care of any insects that might be on them, just make sure no one uses pesticides around the tree you get your branches from. Other things from your yard they'll enjoy eating- grass, dandelions, clover, once it's rinsed in the sink, (and of course no pesticides). I've got a question for someone else- I know gerbils LOVE pine nuts, but is it alright to give them pine cones to play with/chew on though?
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Post by Ritzie/Admin on Feb 14, 2005 6:37:21 GMT -8
I've given them pine cones quite often! And I have never had problems. They love it! They chew it so that they can reach the seeds.
Pine bedding (the oils) can cause respiratory problems, but I don't think pine cones do that too! It is not that they are in that all day!
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Post by callimico on Feb 14, 2005 11:43:29 GMT -8
Thanks- I was hoping so. One of my females ended up with a red nose because of a pine house I had in her tank- even though I've never seen this with any other gerbs.
Are there certain types of pine cones you use?
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Post by Ritzie/Admin on Feb 15, 2005 3:58:53 GMT -8
No just the cones from the Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris). They can be found in the forest close to my home.
But if your gerbil had a red nose from a pine house, it might get this also from the cones! She might be allergic.
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Post by dutchie on Oct 25, 2005 13:04:43 GMT -8
Branches of cherry-wood appear to be toxic for gerbils, although it is a fruit tree! Do not use it, it may kill your gerbils.
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