Dietary supplements are nutrients (minerals and vitamins) that are artificially synthesized by man. These nutrients are added to your gerbil's daily, weekly or monthly diet to maintain proper nutrition. The ideal natural diet does not require supplements, but it is rare that ideal situations are created for humans or their pets.

Fortunately for pet owners, laboratories and pet food companies have gone to great lengths to design foods that meet pet requirements. Commercial brands of pet food are formulated with a proper balance of nutrients, without the possibility of overdose or error.

Prepackaged gerbil mixes originally designed for use in laboratories take the guesswork out of nutrition. Pellets, nuts, seeds, biscuits and other ingredients provide the majority of the nutrients that your gerbil needs. If you provide fresh fruits or vegetables and sources of protein, such as yogurt, eggs, cheese or occasional insects, your gerbil will remain healthy and happy throughout his life.

If you do choose to supplement, do so on the advice of your veterinarian. Vitamin supplements are available in liquid form, generally added at a rate of 1 to 2 drops per ounce of water. Depending on the formula used by the manufacturer, concentrations as small as 3 drops per ounce can make your gerbil ill, and vitamin toxicity can result in higher doses.