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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/small-gerbil-gnawing

Why do gerbils need things to gnaw on?

To wear down constantly growing teeth and stay busy.

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  1. To sharpen claws
  2. To wear down constantly growing teeth ✔
  3. To build nests

Why: Like other rodents, gerbils have teeth that grow their whole lives. Gnawing helps keep teeth the right length.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck says small cardboard boxes and toilet paper tubes make excellent gerbil chew toys.

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Why did the gerbil gnaw the cardboard? It was a box office hit.
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References

Answer: To wear down constantly growing teeth. Like other rodents, gerbils have teeth that grow their whole lives. Gnawing helps keep teeth the right length.

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual (professional): Overview of Rodents www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/rodents/overview-of-rodents
    A rodent's incisors are rootless and grow continuously.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: Providing a Home for a Gerbil www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/gerbils/providing-a-home-for-a-gerbil
    Small cardboard boxes and toilet paper tubes are quickly shredded but make excellent and readily available gerbil toys.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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