The Ultimate Guide to Degu Care: A Comprehensive Resource for Degu Owners and Enthusiasts

Introduction

Degus (Octodon degus) are captivating rodents that hail from the mountainous regions of Chile. Known for their playful personalities, social nature, and distinct vocalizations, degus have become increasingly popular as exotic pets in recent years. This comprehensive guide offers a wealth of information, practical tips, and expert insights to empower you with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide exceptional care for your beloved degu.

Degu Biology and Characteristics

Physical Features:
- Size: Approximately 9-12 inches in length, with a tail that can reach 4-5 inches long
- Weight: Typically between 6-12 ounces
- Coat: Short and dense, with a variety of coat colors, including agouti, gray, and blue
- Ears: Large and erect, with a distinct white border
- Whiskers: Long and sensitive, aiding in navigation and exploration

Social Characteristics:
- Degus are highly social creatures and thrive in groups of at least two or more individuals
- They communicate through a complex repertoire of vocalizations, including chirps, squeaks, and whistles
- Degus establish dominance hierarchies and display grooming behaviors to strengthen their bonds

Lifespan and Health Considerations:

• Average lifespan: 5-8 years
• Common health issues: Dental disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and cancer

Degu Housing and Environment

Cage Requirements:
- Minimum cage size: 36 inches long x 18 inches wide x 18 inches high for a pair or small group
- Bar spacing: No more than 0.75 inches
- Cage placement: Choose a location that provides ample natural light and ventilation

Bedding and Substrate:
- Paper-based bedding (such as aspen or pine shavings)
- Layer of hay or straw for comfort and nesting
- Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can emit harmful fumes

Other Essential Elements:
- Hiding places: Multiple enclosed spaces for safety and security
- Climbing structures: Ladders, platforms, and ropes provide enrichment and exercise
- Toilet area: Designated spot for waste elimination, using a litter box or ceramic tiles
- Exercise wheel: A running wheel designed for degus to prevent back injuries

Degu Nutrition

Diet:
- Herbivores that primarily consume hay, fresh vegetables, and commercial pelleted diets
- Provide unlimited access to hay (timothy, orchard, or meadow hay)
- Fresh vegetables should make up approximately 20% of their diet (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, celery)
- Pelleted diets should be high-quality and specifically formulated for degus
- Offer occasional treats, such as fruits, nuts, or seeds, in moderation

Water:
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times
- Use a drip bottle or heavy ceramic bowl that won't be easily tipped over

Degu Health and Hygiene

Grooming:

• Degus are meticulous groomers and generally do not require bathing
• Brush their coats regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting
• Trim their nails as needed

Dental Care:

• Degus' teeth grow continuously and require regular chewing to prevent overgrowth
• Provide hay and hard chew toys to promote tooth wear
• Dental disease is a common issue in degus, so regular veterinary checkups are essential

Common Health Issues:

• Respiratory infections (pneumonia, upper respiratory tract infections)
• Diabetes
• Dental disease
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Seizures
• Cancer

Degu Behavior and Enrichment

Play and Socialization:

• Degus enjoy interactive play and social interaction with their owners and cage mates
• Provide toys and activities that stimulate their curiosity and encourage natural behaviors
• Encourage regular handling to promote bonding and reduce stress

Exercise and Activity:

• Degus are active creatures and require daily exercise
• Provide an exercise wheel, climbing structures, and ample space to run and explore
• Enrichment activities, such as foraging toys, puzzles, and treat-dispensing devices, provide mental stimulation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Keeping degus alone: Degus are social animals and should never be housed alone.
• Using inappropriate bedding: Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can release harmful fumes.
• Overfeeding sugary treats: Treats should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain and health problems.
• Ignoring dental hygiene: Regular dental care is crucial to prevent overgrowth and painful conditions.
• Exposing degus to secondhand smoke: Degus are sensitive to smoke, which can cause respiratory issues.
• Not providing enough enrichment: Degus require a variety of toys and activities to stay happy and healthy.
• Ignoring health issues: Degus are prone to certain health conditions, so it's important to seek veterinary attention promptly if you notice any signs of illness.

FAQs

1. What is the average lifespan of a degu?
   - 5-8 years

2. What is the best type of bedding for degus?
   - Paper-based bedding (such as aspen or pine shavings) topped with hay or straw

3. What is the ideal diet for degus?
   - Unlimited hay, fresh vegetables (approximately 20% of diet), and high-quality pelleted diets

4. How often should degus' nails be trimmed?
   - As needed, typically every few weeks

5. What are common signs of illness in degus?
   - Respiratory distress, lethargy, weight loss, changes in appetite, grooming behavior, or vocalizations

6. Can degus be litter trained?
   - Yes, with patience and consistency

7. Are degus good pets for children?
   - Degus can be good pets for children who are gentle and supervised, but they may not be suitable for very young children due to their delicate nature

8. What are the most common health conditions in degus?
   - Dental disease, respiratory infections, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, and cancer