Looking for a unique and fascinating pet? Four-toed Jerboas might be the perfect choice for you! These tiny, hopping rodents are known for their incredible agility and captivating appearance. In this article, we’ll explore everything there is to know about keeping Four-toed Jerboas as pets. Let’s hop right in!
Overview of Four-toed Jerboas
| Species | Allactaga tetradactyla |
| Size | 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) including tail |
| Weight | 1-2 ounces (30-60 grams) |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years in captivity |
| Temperament | Active, curious, and generally shy |
| Diet | Omnivore |
How Are Four-toed Jerboas as Pets?
Pros and Cons of Pet Four-toed Jerboas
- Pros: Unique and fascinating, low odor, and self-grooming
- Cons: Require specialized care, nocturnal, and not ideal for handling
How Much Do Four-toed Jerboas Cost?
Four-toed Jerboas can cost anywhere from $100 to $250, depending on factors like age, sex, and availability. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to budget for their habitat, food, and other supplies.
Quick Facts About Four-toed Jerboas
Four-toed Jerboa Lifespan: How Long Do Four-toed Jerboas Live as Pets?
With proper care, Four-toed Jerboas can live for 3-5 years in captivity.
Looks and Appearances
Four-toed Jerboas have a distinctive appearance with large ears, a long tail, and elongated hind legs. Their fur is usually a mix of brown, gray, and white, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.
Color Varieties
Four-toed Jerboas typically have brown or gray fur on their backs, with white or cream-colored fur on their undersides.
Size
Four-toed Jerboas can grow to be 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long, including their tail, and weigh between 1-2 ounces (30-60 grams).
Four-toed Jerboa Temperament and Personality
Four-toed Jerboas are active, curious, and generally shy animals. They are nocturnal and spend most of their time foraging, exploring, and digging. While they are fascinating to observe, they are not ideal pets for handling and may become stressed if interacted with too frequently.
Caring For Four-toed Jerboas
Are Four-toed Jerboas Easy to Care For?
Four-toed Jerboas require specialized care and are not recommended for inexperienced pet owners. They need a specific habitat setup, a balanced diet, and an understanding of their unique needs and behaviors.
Habitat
An enclosure of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a single Four-toed Jerboa. Provide a deep layer of bedding for digging, hiding spots, and a secure lid to prevent escapes. A dust bath with chinchilla sand is also essential for keeping their fur clean and healthy.
Indoor or Outdoors?
Four-toed Jerboas should be kept indoors to protect them from extreme temperatures, humidity, and potential predators. Indoor environments also make it easier to monitor their health and well-being.
Primary Diet For Four-toed Jerboas
Four-toed Jerboas are omnivores and require a diet that includes a mix of high-quality rodent pellets, seeds, insects, and fresh vegetables.
Four-toed Jerboa Treats
Occasionally, you can offer your Four-toed Jerboa small treats like mealworms, crickets, or bits of fruit. However, be careful not to overfeed them, as this can lead to health issues.
Exercise
Provide your Four-toed Jerboa with ample space to hop, climb, and explore within their enclosure. You can also offer an exercise wheel designed for small animals, but ensure it has a solid surface to prevent injuries to their feet and legs.
Common Health Issues
Four-toed Jerboas can be prone to dental issues, respiratory infections, and external parasites. Regular veterinary checkups and close monitoring of their health can help prevent and address these issues early.
Can Four-toed Jerboas Live With Other Animals?
Four-toed Jerboas should not be housed with other animal species, as they may become stressed and aggressive. However, they can sometimes be housed with other Four-toed Jerboas if introduced properly and given enough space to avoid overcrowding.
Four-toed Jerboa Breeding Considerations
Breeding Four-toed Jerboas should only be attempted by experienced keepers, as it requires specialized knowledge and resources. If you are interested in breeding, consult with a veterinarian or expert in the field for guidance.
FAQ for Four-toed Jerboas as Pets
- Are Four-toed Jerboas good pets for children?
- Four-toed Jerboas are not ideal pets for young children, as they are fragile, easily stressed, and not suitable for frequent handling. They are better suited for older children or adults who can appreciate their unique characteristics from a distance.
- Do Four-toed Jerboas bite?
- While Four-toed Jerboas are generally shy and avoid confrontation, they may bite if they feel threatened or stressed. It’s important to respect their boundaries and avoid handling them unnecessarily.
- Can Four-toed Jerboas be trained?
- Four-toed Jerboas are not easily trainable and do not respond well to traditional training methods. However, they can become accustomed to their caretaker’s presence over time and may exhibit natural behaviors when they feel comfortable and secure.
- Do Four-toed Jerboas need a companion?
- Some Four-toed Jerboas do well with a companion, while others prefer to be solitary. If you decide to house multiple Jerboas together, monitor their interactions closely and be prepared to separate them if necessary.