Objective To analyze the correlation between hyperlipidemia and atherogenesis in gerbils. Methods Fourteen gerbils in the experimental group were fed with a diet containing 1% cholesterol, 10% lard and 10% yolk powder. Twelve gerbils in the control group were fed with normal chow. Serum total cholesterol, triglyeerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol of gerbils in the two groups were measured at the 0, 7th, 30 th, 60th, 90th and 120th day. Finally all the animals were sacrificed and examined by histopathology. Results Serum TC, LDL-c and HDL-c of gerbils in experimental group were much higher than those in the control group during the 120 days, with increased serum LDL-e concentration in particular. Fatty liver, hepatoeirrhosis, splenomegalia and aortic atherosclerosis were observed in the experimental group. Conclusion Aortic atherogenesis in gerbils can be promoted by hyperlipidemia. The gerbil might be used as a suitable laboratory animal for fatty liver research.