Degu Care and Health

Overview

Degus are small, social rodents native to Chile, often kept as pets. They are active, curious, and require proper care and attention to thrive. Understanding their specific needs, including diet, housing, and health care, is crucial to ensure they live a long and healthy life.

Diet and Nutrition

Degus have a unique dietary requirement that is low in sugar and rich in fiber. It is important to avoid feeding degus foods high in sugar, as they are prone to diabetes. A balanced diet should include:

• High-quality hay: Such as timothy hay to promote digestive health and wear down their teeth.
• Pellets: Specifically formulated for degus, which provide essential nutrients.
• Fresh vegetables: Offered in moderation, such as leafy greens, to add variety and nutrition.

Housing and Environment

Degus are active animals that need a spacious and enriching environment. A large, multi-level cage with plenty of room to explore is ideal. The cage should include:

• Bedding: Use paper-based or aspen shavings for bedding. Avoid pine or cedar shavings, as they can be harmful.
• Exercise: A solid-surface exercise wheel is essential for their physical health.
• Enrichment: Provide tunnels, chew toys, and platforms to keep them mentally stimulated.
• Socialization: Degus are social animals and should be kept in pairs or small groups. Ensure they have companionship to prevent loneliness and stress.

Health and Common Diseases

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor your degu’s health. Some common health issues in degus include:

• Dental Problems: Overgrown teeth can cause discomfort and eating difficulties. Ensure they have enough hay and chew toys to wear down their teeth naturally.
• Diabetes: Degus are highly susceptible to diabetes due to their sensitivity to sugar. Monitor their diet carefully and look for signs such as excessive thirst and weight loss.
• Respiratory Infections: Ensure their environment is clean, well-ventilated, and free from dust to prevent respiratory issues.
• Skin Issues: Parasites or fungal infections can lead to hair loss and itching. Regularly check your degu’s coat for any abnormalities.

Grooming

Degus are clean animals that groom themselves regularly. However, they do benefit from dust baths to keep their fur clean and free from oils. Provide them with a dust bath a few times a week using chinchilla dust.

Veterinary Care

At Animal Republic Veterinary Hospital and ER, we offer specialized care for degus, including:

• Routine Check-ups: Regular wellness exams to ensure your degu is healthy.
• Dental Care: Trimming and monitoring of teeth to prevent overgrowth.
• Emergency Care: Immediate attention for any sudden health issues, such as respiratory infections or injuries.

Lifespan and Senior Care

Degus can live for 6-8 years with proper care. As they age, they may require additional attention to their diet and health. Regular vet visits become even more important to catch any potential health issues early.