Remember after 5 weeks?

[dors]

I adopted two gerbils from a tank of four at a shelter 5 weeks ago. One of my gerbils died saturday and I was wondering if I took in the other two gerbils would the one I have remember them from five weeks ago or could there still be introduction problems. They were together at the shelter for 7 months prior and are more than likely littermates. They are all female. Would a 20 gallon tank be enough room? I don't want her to be alone and I'm thinking this might be a safe match.

[southcore]

No. Your gerbil had completely forgoten its cagemates after 72 hours, they will definately not remember each other. . It probably won't work to inroduce them as a group either. DEFINATELY don't just drop them in the tank together. They will kill each other. If you want to pair her up with another gerbil i would suggest finding a pup under 8 weeks old and using the split cage method to intro them.

[dors]

Thanks, I was hoping for her to be back with her family, but I guess a pup will have to do. I was definately going to use a split cage anyway. I wish I would've taken all four at once instead of two. I just had a 10 gallon and decided on two. I was also hoping to give the other two a home, like I said they are in an animal shelter. I don't have room for another tank, in fact the 20 gallon would be a bit much. I already have 1 dog, 2 cats, 3-8yr old goldfish, and a lizard and of course a gerbil, who by the way actually seems very content alone except she wakes up easy now. She needs a sleeping buddy.

[RitzieAnn]

It might be ok actually. For sure use nutral territory, and have "gerbils seperating tools" handy. I adopted some gerbils from a gal, and she threw hers in with each other all the time. She said she's NEVER had a problem with them fighting before. Just be careful!

[annenrob]

I introduced my older girl to my established pair by using the split-cage method but it took me a few weeks ( I worry a lot) first I kept switching bedding then I switched them from one side to the other until I was finally brave enough to to let it happen they've all been happy together since then.

[dors]

I think I am going to try it. I really would like them back together. Also I can be sure they are all girls and are the same age. They were all very friendly and curious when we adopted the first two. Wish us luck.

[malabui]

Personally I'd try it, but keep a close eye on them when you do. Gerbils may have better memories than you think they do. Becides, since they are litter mates they may smell rounghly the same and so should in theory accept each other again...