Gerbils can eat a little rat food in a pinch, such as when you have run out of gerbil food for a day. It is not the best long-term diet, though. Gerbils and rats have different nutritional needs, so a food made for gerbils is the better staple.
Why rat food is not a perfect match
- Rats are bigger and more varied eaters. Many rat mixes include large pieces, dried fruit, and nuts that are awkward or too fatty for a small gerbil.
- Protein and fat targets differ. Rat foods are built for animals with different body sizes and energy needs, so a mix that suits a rat can be richer than a gerbil needs.
- Pieces are larger. Gerbils like to scatter and hoard, and big chunks do not suit them as well as smaller seeds and pellets.
If you have to use it
- Choose a plain block or pellet rather than a colorful mix with dried fruit, marshmallow, or yogurt bits.
- Skip foods with lots of sunflower seeds or peanuts. Sunflower seeds are fatty and are best used as occasional treats.
- Use it for a day or two only, then go back to a gerbil food.
- Keep fresh water available and watch for loose droppings.
What to feed instead
A balanced gerbil food, either a good seed mix or a pellet, is the base of the diet. The RSPCA advises feeding a good-quality food made for gerbils and following the manufacturer’s guidance, then adding small amounts of fresh vegetables and fruit. See our guides to the best gerbil food and what gerbils eat for specifics, and gerbil treats for safe snacks.
Feeding tips
- Scatter food on the bedding so your gerbils can forage.
- Remove stale or hoarded fresh food each day.
- Change foods gradually over several days.
- Avoid grapes and rhubarb, which the RSPCA lists as poisonous to rodents.
Bottom Line
A little plain rat food is fine for a short stretch, but gerbils do best on a food made for them. If your gerbil has diarrhea, stops eating, or loses weight, call your vet.
General information only, not veterinary advice.
