Keeping a Degu as a Pet: Complete UK Care Guide 2025

Small exotic pets like the Degu have become increasingly popular in the United Kingdom, presenting a unique challenge and joy for pet owners committed to responsible care. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essentials of keeping a Degu happy and healthy, covering everything from housing to diet, social needs, health concerns, and enrichment.

What is a Degu?

Degus are small rodents, closely related to guinea pigs and chinchillas, and have surprising links to rabbits. Native to Chile in South America, they thrive in diverse terrains from coastal areas to the Andes mountains. Unlike many rodents, Degus are diurnal, meaning they are active during daylight hours, offering a different pet experience.

Housing and Environment: Providing the Ideal Home

Degus are sensitive to heat and require a well-ventilated environment maintained ideally between 20-22°C to avoid distress and heatstroke. Their cages should be spacious with multiple levels and ramps to satisfy their climbing instincts. Wire mesh cages with solid flooring prevent toe injuries and allow ventilation. Bedding should be deep, dust-free, and safe for burrowing, such as kiln-dried aspen shavings or paper-based bedding, avoiding pine or cedar due to respiratory risks.

Including tunnels, safe wooden chew toys (like apple, beech, or oak branches), digging bowls, and sand baths supports their natural behaviours of chewing, tunneling, and grooming. Regular spot cleaning and thorough weekly cage washes with pet-safe disinfectants maintain hygiene crucial for their health.

Diet and Nutrition: Feeding Your Degu Correctly

A Degu's diet must be rich in fibre and low in sugar to prevent serious health issues like diabetes. Unlimited access to high-quality hay, such as Timothy or meadow hay, is fundamental. Complement this with a small daily portion of degu-specific pellets and fresh leafy greens a few times a week. Fruits should be avoided entirely due to their high sugar content.

Always provide fresh water, clean feeding bowls daily, and remove any uneaten food. Some owners use vitamin and mineral supplements to support optimal health, but these should be used under veterinary guidance.

Social Needs and Behaviour

Degus thrive in social groups and should never be kept alone, as isolation can cause severe stress and depression. Same-sex pairs or groups are best to avoid aggressive behaviours. These animals prefer minimal handling and may not be ideal for young children, but with patient socialisation, they can become engaging companions. Introducing new Degus slowly and speaking softly helps build trust over time.

Health Issues and Veterinary Care

Common health problems include dental diseases, respiratory illnesses, and type-2 diabetes mellitus. Degus have continuously growing teeth, necessitating a diet high in fibrous hay to naturally wear teeth down. Signs of dental issues include drooling, difficulty eating, and weight loss, requiring veterinary attention for trimming or treatment.

The risk of diabetes makes avoiding sugary foods imperative. Symptoms like excessive thirst, urination, and weight changes should prompt immediate veterinary consultation. Respiratory issues can arise from dusty bedding or poor ventilation, so careful environmental management is vital.

While vaccinations are not routinely required, an annual health check with a vet experienced in exotic pets ensures early detection and prevention of diseases. Regular monitoring of eyes, fur condition, and breathing health is recommended, with swift veterinary advice if abnormalities occur.

Daily Care and Enrichment

Degus need a daily routine of feeding, fresh water provision, cage spot cleaning, and gentle social interaction. Enrichment through toys, tunnels, exercise wheels, and digging facilities helps prevent boredom and stress, which can lead to behavioural problems. Safe chewing materials also support dental health.

Supporting your Degu's natural behaviours with enriching activities and a predictable routine promotes wellbeing and longevity, allowing them to thrive as affectionate and fascinating pets.

Conclusion: Commitment and Rewards

Keeping a Degu as a pet requires research, dedication, and ongoing care to meet their social, dietary, and environmental needs. Their lifespan of 5 to 9 years in domestic settings brings years of enjoyment when their wellbeing is prioritised. Responsible owners who provide suitable housing, a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and social companionship will find Degus to be rewarding and delightful pets.

For those considering a Degu, ensure you assess the commitment involved and seek information from reputable sources and veterinarians specialising in exotic pets. With the right care, your Degu can become an engaging member of your family and a wonderful talking point.

For more information or concerns about your Degu's health, always consult your local exotic pet vet.