Gerbils are members of the subfamily Gerbillinae, family Muridae, with the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) being the most common pet species of gerbil available in the UK; they originate from desert regions. Gerbils come in various colourations and are highly social, nocturnal species, creating elaborate underground burrowing systems. While active, they are easily handled and can make good pets. Gerbils are medically more robust than some other rodent species commonly kept as pets; nevertheless there are a number of diseases that are seen in pet gerbils, and the veterinary surgeon should be aware of these. A number of antibiotics have been associated with development of intestinal dysbiosis and fatal enterotoxaemia in gerbils, and their use should be avoided.

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