Gerbils eating plastic?

[amberglitter13]

I had heard before that if gerbils eat to much plastic, it can hurt them (i forget if it was an issue of toxicity or impaction) but I know there are tons of plastic toys out there for them, and I was wondering if anyone has had any gerbils get sick or die from eating plastic??

Thanks!

[andreaS15]

I have never heard of a gerbil getting sick or dying from eating plastic. And i don't believe they actually "eat" it. From what I've notices they chew it into little peices, same as paper tubes and tissue.

[misscurlyj]

It hasn't ever been a problem with my previous gerbils or my current ones but I have heard of it causing some digestive problems in some....also I have heard that if they were to get a sharp piece it could cut up the internal organs and cause significant problems...but then again I have never seen this in my gerbils and I have had gerbils since I was young.

[amberglitter13]

My current tank setup is lots of wood and cardboard, I did have a plastic "pear" for them to nest in but now have a wooden house. I figured better to be safe about it, plus they love the t.p. tubes I give them so much, I don't think they're missing out on any of the plastic toys out there.....sometimes I wonder if they are more for our amusment than theirs!

Still, glad to know that I can give them a plastic toy if I find a particularly interesting one. Thanks!!!!


I do have another question - I know that cedar and pine bedding is a big no-no, but there are lots of wood toys at the store that don't say what kind of wood it is - of course cedar you could smell easily but if it were pine or something else bad for them, would a toy as opposed to bedding be just as bad for them?

[Zouave]

Do NOT let them chew plastic. It is not natural, not good for their teeth, gums, or digestion.

Let them chew wood, or heavy corrugated cardboard.