Because gerbils are desert animals and produce much less
urine than other pets, a litter box is not needed or practical for them, but hamsters and mice will often use a litter box if it is placed in the corner of their cage that they have already chosen as their bathroom.
It is recommended that mature
pets (older
than seven years of age) be screened with blood and
urine tests yearly to check for kidney disease and
other conditions that increase with age.