Versele-Laga is a European pet food maker that sells gerbil foods under names such as Gerbil Nature and Gerbil Complete. Product lines and recipes differ by country and change over time, so read the bag you are actually holding before relying on any description here.
What These Foods Typically Contain
Gerbil foods in this style generally combine grains and seeds with extruded pieces (shaped biscuits or pellets) that carry added vitamins and minerals. Some include dried mealworms or other animal protein, which fits a gerbil’s natural omnivore diet. Extruded pieces help reduce selective feeding, where gerbils pick out the seeds and leave the rest.
What to Check on the Label
- That it is made for gerbils, not for a different animal
- The ingredient list: look for whole grains and seeds, not sugar or sweet fruit pieces
- Protein and fat percentages, keeping fat moderate
- Any added colors or flavors you would rather avoid
How to Feed Gerbils
A starting amount is about one tablespoon per gerbil per day, adjusted to body condition. Gerbils store food, so look in their hoard before topping up. If you are changing brands, mix the new food into the old over about a week to prevent stomach upset.
Add small fresh extras, such as a bit of carrot or cucumber, a couple of times a week. Give hay for chewing and nesting, and make sure fresh water is always available.
Bottom Line
A quality gerbil food with extruded pieces can be a good staple. Choose by label and ingredients rather than by packaging, and add small amounts of fresh food. If your gerbil loses weight or stops eating, contact your vet.
General information only, not veterinary advice.
More to read: Best Gerbil Food, What Can I Feed Gerbils?, and Higgins Sunburst Gerbil Food.
