Molly <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote
>As I recall, the agreed-upon ideal protein-fat ratio in gerbil food is
>something like 14% protein and 7% fat. First of all, am I recalling
>correctly? What about older animals (past middle age)? Are there
>other nutrients to be concerned with, like calcium, etc.?
>
>Thanks!
>
>Molly
Michelle's Gerbil FAQ says:
"Note that gerbils will have different dietary requirements if they are
breeders, geriatric, or pets. For non-breeding pets look for a moderate
protein content (about 12%) and a fat content between 6% and 8%. For
breeding gerbils 15%-16% protein and 7-9% fat is recommended. For
geriatric (past breeding age or about two years old) 10-11% protein and
3-5% fat works well. Try to have as much variety in of food as possible
in any of these diets to be sure the gerbils are getting all the
micronutrients they need. Remember that gerbils are highly active
animals that need fat for energy and to keep their coats soft, but too
much will give you obese animals in a year or two. If you are breeding
too much fat can render your females sterile by building fat deposits
around their ovaries."
Gerbils obviously need some minerals like calcium. However, no studies
appear to have been done to identify ideal levels. If you are worried
your gerbils are not getting enough calcium you can give them a little
piece of cuttlebone.
--
Julian
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
National Gerbil Society
http://www.gerbils.co.uk/
