Introducing gerbils

You usually try to buy gerbils that have been raised together, and are about 6-8 weeks old, but there are some circumstances where you have to introduce two gerbils that don't know each other . You cant just drop the newcomer into the other gerbils home, this would cause an uproar! I would recommend the split-cage method.

Split-cage Method

By using an  aquarium, take a divider, I use a metal grate, you can also use a wire mesh and split the cage in the middle.

Place each gerbil on each side, and every 3 to 4 hours switch them to the opposite sides, (literally take one out and visa versa and switch there sides) This way they get use to each other's scent, without ever coming in contact with each other. I do this for a week, seems long but that's how long it takes for them to get use to each other.  After you have done this take both gerbils and introduce them on neutral ground, make sure you watch them at all times, to make sure a fight doesn't break out.  If they seem to do well, put new bedding in there tank and place both gerbils in the tank. After 3 hours have gone by and they are doing find, consider a job well done (just make sure to check on them once awhile)

The most difficult to introduce is adult female to adult female.

* you can't use this method to introduce group's of gerbils.* gerbil groups are already established, and adding a lone gerbil to a group is highly un-recommended, actually you put that lone gerbil in harms way, because the established group will attack him/her, which not resolved fast could result in death for that lone gerbil

A split cage shown here allows two gerbils to get use to each other but not able to come in contact with each other. Also make sure you have a water bottle and a food dish on each side.