Degus are tiny rodents often called bush rats. Yet, despite the unappealing name, these little creatures make great pets. Degus look like gerbils but with softer fur and skinny tails. They’re social animals that become very tame with regular handling and are quite vocal when excited. Degus may not be as easy to keep as similar-sized rodents, like guinea pigs, but they’re certainly fun pets.
If you’re up for the challenge and the commitment, discover the six things you should know about getting a degu as a prospective owner.
1. Degus Aren’t Suitable for Beginners
Degus are cute pets, but they aren’t recommended for beginners. Why? Because they require a specific diet, a large cage, enrichment, and regular handling. As a new degu owner, you may want to immediately cuddle your pet, but these creatures require time, patience, and gentle handling to become tame. If their basic needs aren’t met, they can suffer from stress, increasing their risk of a compromised immune system and contracting illnesses. If you are new to keeping rodents as pets, learn more about the species before buying or adopting.
2. Degus Need Enrichment to Thrive
The good news is that degus are diurnal, which means they are most active during the day. But owing to their extreme energy levels and need to explore, they require enrichment through toys, accessories, and a spacious enclosure. To meet their needs, add an exercise wheel of at least 12 inches (or one that’s relative to their size). You should also know that pet degus love to chew. In fact, they will chew anything and everything they come across, including the floor of their enclosure! Wooden blocks or fruit tree branches are excellent items that can help trim your degu’s ever-growing teeth. Many of the same toys for guinea pigs and hamsters are also suitable for degus.
3. Degus Are Social Animals That Need Companionship
Degus are described as sweet and very energetic, but they’re also sensitive animals that thrive in a pack. Keeping two or more degus together is best to make them feel secure. In addition to security, a group will reduce boredom, as degus are curious and social creatures that will entertain each other. Same-sex groups are best, or one neutered male could do well with a group of females.
It is a good idea to purchase young degus together, but if you want to add another adult later, introduce them gradually. Degus bond to one another and their owners very quickly, so new additions should only be introduced under supervision to prevent stress and fighting.
4. Degus Have Specific Temperature and Humidity Needs
Unlike rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs that can adapt easily to indoor temperatures, degus require specific temperature and humidity levels. The perfect room temperature is around 70℉ and should not exceed 77℉. If they get too hot, degus can experience heatstroke, and they’re quite sensitive to the cold. If your home is prone to temperature fluctuations, add a small heating pad or box fan to promote circulation.
Along with temperature, degus require humidity levels of between 40% and 60%. They shouldn’t be exposed to high humidity, as this will increase the likelihood of respiratory infections and skin problems. Degus come from dry mountainous regions, so monitor the humidity in their environment to keep them healthy and active.
5. These Rodents Thrive with Consistent Handling
If you don’t handle your degu regularly, they will become difficult to manage and will most likely bite when touched. Fortunately, these little critters can develop trusting and loving relationships with their keepers when frequently handled. Interact with your pet degu daily and hold them close to your chest, allowing them to pick up your scent. To safely play with your pet degu, place them in a secure room where they can’t reach the vents, shelves, or cupboard drawers. Degus can bite like guinea pigs if you handle them while stressed. Be patient, and your little degu should soon form a trusting bond.
6. Degus Can Be Noisy!
Many new degu owners want to keep their furry companions close by placing the cage in their bedroom. While it is possible to house these adorable bush rats in your bedroom, you’ll have to deal with a fair amount of noise. Most degu pet owners enjoy their happy chirps and squeaks, but their antics may wake you in the early hours of the morning. You’ll hear the exercise wheel, scratching, and constant chewing.
Some degus tend to sleep soundly through the night. But if you find that your pet rodent is keeping you up, find a cozy and draft-free spot in your home to place their cage. The enclosure must be located where they can see you and receive regular interaction. Degus develop strong bonds with their keepers and will often stand and squeak in search of you when you’re out of sight.
