If you decide to put them in a tank which is okay I like them for gerbils cuz since they like to burrow you can fill the tank half way with shavings and it won't make a mess make sure you have a lid with ventilation you MUST have a lid gerbils can jump really really high. and are escape artists and FAST. There is medication you can buy for wet tail, i thought only hamsters got that, but nevertheless there is stuff you can get. Buy them in pairs I would say but I dunno. I had two and they lived together for 3 years and were fine until one night and I won't even write what the one did to the other he died during that terrible night. I personally do not like gerbils of all the pets I have, I liked them the least, but everyone is different. I quite enjoy hamsters and a lot of people don't like them so to each his own. You really should get a rat they are the cleanest, friendliest creatures you will even own. (small wise) Anyways sorry for rambling good luck with your gerbils can't wait to see pics!!