All About Degus: The Ultimate Care Guide
Degus are small, highly social rodents that make fantastic pets for those who can provide them with plenty of attention and proper care. Originally from Chile, these inquisitive creatures thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitat. If you're considering adding a degu to your family, here's everything you need to know!
Are Degus Right for You?
Degus are fantastic pets for dedicated owners who have the time to interact with them daily. They require space, companionship, and mental stimulation to thrive. If you're looking for a pet with personality and energy, a degu might be the perfect choice!
Housing your Degu
Degus require a spacious, multi-level cage with solid flooring to prevent injury. Wire mesh cages with plenty of platforms, tunnels, and chew toys are ideal. Avoid plastic enclosures, as degus love to chew and can easily destroy them. Bedding should be dust-free and absorbent, such as aspen shavings or paper-based materials.
Diet & Nutrition
A healthy degu diet consists mainly of hay, supplemented with degu-specific pellets. Fresh vegetables like leafy greens can be given in moderation. Avoid foods high in sugar, such as fruit, as degus are prone to diabetes. Always provide fresh water in a bottle or heavy dish.
Socialisation & Enrichment
Degus are highly social and should never be kept alone. A pair or small group is best to prevent loneliness and stress. Regular handling and interaction help build trust, and providing chew toys, exercise wheels, and tunnels keeps them entertained. Allowing supervised out-of-cage playtime is also beneficial.
Health & Care
Like all pets, degus require regular health checks. Watch for signs of overgrown teeth, weight loss, or lethargy. They are prone to dental issues, so providing plenty of hay and chewable wood is essential. Unlike some rodents, degus should never be bathed in water—use a dust bath instead to keep their fur clean.
Food & Treats
We have a wide range of nutritious food & treats for all of your small animals
Toys & Enrichment
Find the perfect toys & enrichment to keep you furry little friends entertained all day long.
Hutches & Cages
We have suitable Hutches & Cages for indoors or outdoors.
Straw & Hay
We have an ever growing selection of straw, hay & bedding, to keep your fluffy friends safe, warm and healthy.
Grooming
We have a large selection of small animal grooming and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Degus
1. Do you sell degus?
Yes! We offer degus from reputable breeders. We always aim to ensure they go to loving, suitable long-term homes. If you don’t purchase a cage from us, we may ask for proof of your setup. We reserve the right to refuse a sale if we feel the environment offered is not appropriate for the animal’s welfare.
2. Do you sell suitable cages for degus?
Yes, we carry spacious, solid-floor, multi-level enclosures designed to meet the needs of active, energetic degus. These cages provide room for climbing, digging, and running.
3. How should I handle degus safely?
Degus are curious and friendly but can be easily startled. Always approach calmly and allow them to sniff your hand first. Scoop them gently with both hands without grabbing by the tail, as their tails are delicate.
4. What kind of exercise and enrichment do degus need?
Degus are very active and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. We stock large solid-surface wheels, climbing structures, tunnels, chew toys, and platforms.
5. Can you offer advice on housing degus in pairs or groups?
Yes, degus are highly social animals and thrive in same-sex pairs or small groups. Our staff can advise on compatible groupings, introducing new degus, and choosing an enclosure that provides enough space for everyone.
6. Do degus need a sand bath?
Yes, sand baths are essential for keeping their coats clean and healthy.
7. What food do degus eat?
We stock degu-specific pellets, mixed forage, high-quality hay, and natural low-sugar treats. Degus are prone to diabetes, so it’s important to avoid sugary foods, fruits, and treats containing molasses.
8. Do you stock safe degu chew toys?
Absolutely. We offer wooden chews, natural gnaws, tunnels, platforms, cardboard enrichment, and degu-safe boredom breakers. Chewing is vital for wearing down their teeth and preventing dental issues.
9. Do you rehome degus?
Yes, we do offer degu rehoming when space allows. We assess each case individually to ensure the degus are in good health, an appropriate age for rehoming, and suitable for a new home. Availability of space varies, so we may not always be able to take them in. Our priority is ensuring every animal is placed in a safe, loving, and suitable environment.
10. Do you offer boarding services for degus?
Yes, we provide boarding services for degus when you’re away. Check out our Boarding Page for more information.
Some of our trusted brands for our Small Animals
Just a few of the trusted brands we stock in our stores.
