How to Care for a Degu: Diet, Enclosure, and Daily Needs

Two degus exploring a large natural enclosure with hay, wooden platforms, and chew toys

If you’re looking for a small, intelligent, and social companion, the degu might be the perfect choice. This lively degu rodent pet hails from the scrublands of Chile and has been winning the hearts of pet owners worldwide thanks to its playful personality, charming whiskers, and affectionate nature. But while they’re adorable, keeping a degu as a pet comes with unique care requirements.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about degu care, including their diet, housing needs, and daily enrichment, so you can provide the best possible life for your furry friend.

1. Understanding Degus as Pets

Before adopting a degu rodent pet, it’s important to understand their natural behaviour, social structure, and needs. These lively little animals are far from “low-maintenance” – they require attention, enrichment, and proper housing to truly thrive.

Social Animals

In the wild, degus live in large colonies, working together to build burrows, forage for food, and keep watch for predators. This strong instinct for companionship carries over to life in captivity.
A degu as a pet will almost always be happier and healthier when kept with at least one other degu. Lone degus can become withdrawn, anxious, or even aggressive due to loneliness. Keeping them in a bonded pair or small same-sex group allows them to communicate, groom each other, and play naturally.
If you’re considering bringing degus home, be prepared to adopt at least two – ideally littermates or already-bonded companions.

Daytime Activity

Many small rodents, like hamsters and mice, are nocturnal, but degus are diurnal – they are most active during daylight hours. This means you can enjoy their playful behaviour without staying up late at night.
During the day, you’ll see them running on wheels, digging in bedding, or chewing on safe natural toys. If you work from home or are around during the day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to interact and bond with them.

Longer Lifespan

With proper diet, housing, and veterinary care, a degu rodent pet can live 5–8 years, sometimes even longer. This makes them a more long-term commitment compared to many other small pets, such as mice or hamsters, which typically live 1–3 years.
Their longer lifespan means you’ll have more time to form a deep bond – but also that you must plan for their care over many years, including during changes in your lifestyle.

Chewers by Nature

One of the most defining characteristics of a degu as a pet is their constant need to chew. Their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives, so chewing is essential to keep them at a healthy length and prevent painful dental problems.
In the wild, they naturally wear down their teeth by gnawing on bark, roots, and fibrous plants. In captivity, you can provide safe chew toys and edible materials, such as Apple Wood Sticks, Jerusalem Chew Sticks, or Palm Leaf Donuts, to mimic this behaviour. Chewing is not just for dental health – it’s also a way for them to relieve stress and stay mentally stimulated.

2. Ideal Degu Diet

Nutrition is one of the most critical aspects of degu care. Degus have delicate digestive systems and a unique intolerance to sugar, meaning their diet must be carefully tailored to avoid health issues like diabetes, obesity, and digestive discomfort.

A healthy diet for a degu rodent pet is rich in fiber, low in fat, and completely free from added sugars or dried fruit (unless in extremely tiny amounts as a rare treat). Providing the right balance of hay, fresh forage, natural sprays, and safe chews will not only keep your degu healthy but also mimic the variety they would find in the wild.

Hay – The Foundation of Their Diet

Hay is the single most important component of a degu as a pet diet. It should make up the majority of their daily food intake.
Why hay matters:

  • Digestive health – The high fiber content keeps the digestive system functioning smoothly and prevents gastrointestinal issues.

  • Dental health – The coarse texture helps naturally wear down their continuously growing teeth, preventing painful overgrowth.

Types of hay to offer:

  • Timothy Hay – A staple choice for its ideal fiber content and low calcium.

  • Meadow Hay – Offers a mix of grass species for variety.

  • Herbal Hays – Infused with dried flowers and herbs for extra nutrition and enrichment.

For even greater variety, you can mix hay with botanical forages from Moony Paw’s Forage Collection, such as:

Pellets – Optional, but Carefully Chosen

While some owners choose to feed pellets, they are not strictly necessary if you are providing a balanced diet with hay, forage, and natural supplements.
If you do use pellets:

  • Choose degu-specific pellets with no added sugar, molasses, dried fruit, or artificial additives.

  • Avoid mixes with colorful pieces or seeds, as degus tend to selectively eat the tastiest bits, leaving the rest and missing out on balanced nutrition.

A good pellet can provide consistent nutrition, but fresh, varied plant material should still be the bulk of their diet.

Sprays and Seeds – For Enrichment and Variety

In the wild, degus graze on grasses, seeds, and plants they find while foraging. Offering natural sprays not only gives them a familiar eating experience but also encourages chewing and exploration.

From the Sprays Collection, great options include:

  • Flax Spray – High in omega-3 fatty acids and loved for its crunchy seeds.

  • Broom Millet – A natural, fiber-rich snack that encourages nibbling.

  • Sunflower Half Head – Great as an occasional enrichment item, best given in moderation due to fat content.

These can be hung in the enclosure or scattered in bedding for foraging fun.

Treats – In Moderation

Degus can have treats, but they must be chosen with extreme care due to their sensitivity to sugar. Even naturally sweet items should be given in tiny amounts and only occasionally.

Healthy treat ideas from the Treats Collection include:

  • Freeze-Dried Pumpkin – A crunchy, low-sugar snack.

  • Goji Berries – Packed with antioxidants, but only one berry at a time due to natural sugars.

  • Dried Carob Pieces – A naturally sweet yet safe alternative to chocolate, loved by many small pets.

Remember: Treats are for bonding and enrichment, not a main part of the diet.

Fresh Foods – With Caution

While degus can enjoy small amounts of fresh vegetables, these should be introduced slowly to avoid upsetting their digestive system. Suitable options include leafy greens like kale, dandelion leaves, and herbs such as parsley or basil. Avoid sugary vegetables like carrots or fruit except as very rare treats.

By offering a diet built on high-quality hay, varied forage, natural sprays, and occasional healthy treats, you’ll ensure your degu rodent pet gets all the nutrition it needs while staying engaged and happy.

3. Degu Enclosure Setup

Degus are highly active, intelligent, and curious animals that thrive in an environment that allows them to climb, dig, run, and chew. A well-designed enclosure not only meets their physical needs but also supports their mental wellbeing.

When setting up a home for your degu rodent pet, think of it as creating a small, enriching world that encourages their natural behaviours. The right cage size, safe materials, comfortable bedding, and a variety of accessories are essential.

Minimum Cage Size – Think Spacious and Multi-Level

While the bare minimum for a bonded pair is 100 cm long × 50 cm deep × 50 cm high, degus truly thrive in larger, multi-level enclosures that give them vertical climbing opportunities.
Because they are agile and love to explore, consider cages designed for chinchillas or large ferrets, as these often offer the space and sturdiness degus require.

Why size matters:

  • More space means more room for exercise, which helps prevent obesity.

  • Large enclosures allow you to create separate areas for sleeping, eating, digging, and playing.

  • Vertical height gives them climbing opportunities, which helps keep muscles and joints strong.

A bigger cage also means you can provide a more complex environment – platforms, ramps, hanging chew toys, and multiple hideouts.

Safe Flooring – Protecting Little Feet

Wire flooring can cause bumblefoot (a painful foot infection) and joint strain, so it should be avoided entirely. Instead:

  • Use solid shelves and platforms, ideally made from untreated wood or metal.

  • Cover platforms with safe bedding or fleece liners to make them comfortable.

  • Provide multiple levels connected by ramps or ladders for easy movement between sections.

Bedding – Comfort and Health

The bedding you choose will affect your degu’s comfort, hygiene, and respiratory health. The best options are:

  • Paper-based bedding – Soft, absorbent, and dust-free, ideal for digging and nesting.

  • Aspen shavings – A safe wood-based option with good absorbency and no harmful oils.

Avoid cedar and pine shavings, as their aromatic oils can irritate a degu’s respiratory system and cause long-term health problems.

You can add a dedicated digging area filled with soil or sand for natural burrowing behaviours, just ensure it’s free of chemicals and pesticides.

Essential Accessories – Enrichment and Wellbeing

Degus need constant mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to stress or destructive behaviour. Accessories allow them to exercise, chew, forage, and explore, much like they would in the wild.

From the Degu Accessories Collection, some must-have items include:

You can also explore:

  • Tunnels & Hideouts – Give them safe spaces to retreat to.

  • Hanging Toys – Engage their climbing skills and provide chewing opportunities.

  • Foraging Mats & Bowls – Scatter food to mimic wild feeding habits.

  • Exercise Wheels – Solid-surface wheels of at least 28–30 cm diameter to prevent spinal issues.

Location of the Enclosure

Where you place your degu as a pet enclosure matters just as much as the cage setup:

  • Keep it in a quiet, well-lit room away from direct sunlight and drafts.

  • Avoid kitchens or bathrooms where temperature and humidity can fluctuate.

  • Degus are social – place the cage somewhere they can see and hear household activity without being stressed by loud noise.

A thoughtfully designed enclosure is more than just a cage – it’s your degu’s world. By giving them space, safety, and enrichment, you’re ensuring they live a healthy, happy life full of exploration and play.

4. Enrichment and Mental Stimulation

Degus are highly intelligent, curious, and active animals, which means they need more than just a spacious enclosure to stay happy. Without proper stimulation, a degu rodent pet can quickly become bored, stressed, or even develop destructive behaviours such as excessive chewing on cage bars or over-grooming.

Enrichment isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about supporting your degu’s natural instincts to chew, forage, dig, and explore. A good enrichment routine should change regularly, so there’s always something new to discover.

Chew Toys – A Must for Dental and Mental Health

Chewing is not optional for a degu as a pet – it’s a biological necessity. Their teeth grow continuously, and without enough chewing opportunities, they can develop painful overgrowth that affects their ability to eat.

To keep chewing exciting, rotate different items from the Chews Collection, such as:

Other safe chew materials include willow sticks, seagrass toys, and untreated pine blocks. Offering a range of textures keeps your degu interested and engaged.

Foraging Activities – Engaging Their Wild Instincts

In the wild, degus spend much of their day searching for food. You can replicate this behaviour by making feeding time interactive. This not only keeps them mentally stimulated but also helps prevent overeating.

Try:

  • Scatter feeding – Hide pellets, forage, or safe treats in piles of hay so they have to dig and search.

  • Baskets & Bowls – Use items like the Banana Leaf Basket to hide dried herbs or sprays.

  • Hanging Forage Toys – Offer options like the Natural Nibbles Hanging Flower Cookies to encourage climbing and nibbling.

  • Foraging Mats – Sprinkle forage such as the Flower & Herb Mix into textured mats for extra challenge.

Rotating the hiding spots and changing the types of forage will keep your degus curious and active.

Exercise Wheels – Energy and Stimulation

A running wheel can be a fantastic outlet for your degu’s energy, but it must be the right size and design to avoid injuries.

  • Diameter – At least 28–30 cm so they can run without arching their back unnaturally.

  • Surface – Solid (no wire rungs) to prevent foot injuries and tail damage.

  • Material – Metal or heavy-duty plastic, with a sturdy stand or wall mount for stability.

Place the wheel in a location where it’s easily accessible but doesn’t block other enrichment areas.

Environmental Changes – Keeping Things Fresh

Even the best enrichment can lose its appeal if it never changes. Degus thrive when their environment is updated regularly.

  • Rearrange platforms, ramps, and toys every couple of weeks.

  • Introduce seasonal forages like Sunflower Half Head or Broom Millet.

  • Offer digging boxes filled with safe soil, sand, or shredded paper for natural burrowing fun.

By providing a mix of chewable items, foraging challenges, physical exercise, and regular cage updates, you’ll help your degu rodent pet stay physically fit, mentally sharp, and deeply content.

5. Daily Care Routine

A consistent daily care routine is the foundation of keeping your degu rodent pet healthy, happy, and well-socialised. Degus are active, social animals that rely on regular interaction, fresh food, and a clean environment to thrive. Setting aside time each day for their needs not only keeps them in top condition but also strengthens your bond with them.

Fresh Hay & Water – The Essentials

Your degus should have unlimited access to fresh hay at all times. Check their hay racks every morning and top them up as needed, mixing in occasional botanical forage like the Angel Flower Mix or Amaranth Forage for variety.

Water care tips:

  • Always provide fresh, clean water in a sipper bottle or heavy ceramic dish.

  • Rinse and refill bottles daily to prevent bacterial buildup.

  • Check for leaks or blockages in the water spout to ensure your degus can drink easily.

Spot Cleaning – Hygiene Without Stress

Degus are clean animals, but their enclosures can get messy quickly. Spot cleaning every day prevents odour, reduces the risk of respiratory issues, and keeps bedding fresher for longer.

Spot cleaning routine:

  • Remove any soiled bedding, especially in corners and sleeping areas.

  • Replace with fresh bedding or hay.

  • Wipe down platforms or shelves where droppings may have collected.

A full deep clean should be done weekly or bi-weekly, but daily spot cleaning helps maintain a healthy environment without disturbing your degus too much.

Interaction Time – Building Trust and Social Bonds

Degus are highly social and thrive on interaction, both with each other and with you. Spend at least 20–30 minutes daily engaging with them through gentle handling, play, or hand-feeding safe treats like Freeze-Dried Pumpkin.

Bonding tips:

  • Approach slowly and let them come to you – forcing contact can cause stress.

  • Use your voice regularly so they learn to recognise and trust you.

  • Offer foraging opportunities during interaction time, such as hiding treats in a Banana Leaf Basket.

Over time, consistent interaction will help your degus become confident and affectionate companions.

Health Checks – Catching Problems Early

Degus can hide signs of illness until the condition becomes serious, so daily health observations are essential. When you interact with your degu as a pet, take a moment to check for:

  • Teeth – Overgrown or misaligned teeth can cause drooling, weight loss, or difficulty eating.

  • Eyes and Nose – Discharge may indicate respiratory infections.

  • Coat and Skin – Look for bald spots, redness, or excessive scratching, which may signal mites or allergies.

  • Energy Levels – Sudden lethargy or reduced appetite can be an early sign of illness.

If you spot any concerning changes, seek advice from a vet experienced in exotic pets.

A well-maintained daily care routine ensures that your degu rodent pet enjoys a clean, safe, and stimulating environment while also giving you the chance to form a close bond. The more time you spend on daily upkeep and interaction, the more rewarding your relationship with your degus will be.

6. Health Considerations

While a degu rodent pet can be a hardy and long-lived companion, they are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. Preventive care, a proper diet, and regular observation are the keys to keeping your degu as a pet in top condition.

Being proactive about their health will not only extend their lifespan but also prevent unnecessary suffering. Here are the most common health concerns and how to address them.

Dental Problems – A Constant Risk

One of the most common issues in degus is overgrown teeth. Because their teeth grow continuously, a lack of proper chewing materials can lead to malocclusion (misaligned teeth), which can cause:

  • Drooling or wet fur around the mouth

  • Weight loss due to difficulty eating

  • Reduced interest in food

  • Swelling or sores in the mouth

Prevention:

If you suspect dental problems, seek a small animal vet immediately – untreated cases can quickly become life-threatening.

Diabetes – Unique to Degus

Degus have a genetic intolerance to sugar and can easily develop diabetes if fed the wrong foods. Symptoms can include:

  • Increased thirst and urination

  • Lethargy

  • Cataract formation (cloudy eyes)

Prevention:

  • Avoid sugary treats, including dried fruit, honey sticks, and foods with molasses.

  • Offer only safe, low-sugar snacks like Freeze-Dried Pumpkin or occasional Dried Carob Pieces.

  • Stick to a diet based on hay, forage, and degu-safe pellets.

Once diabetes develops, it cannot be cured – only managed – so prevention is critical.

Respiratory Infections – Keep It Clean

Dust, ammonia from soiled bedding, and poor ventilation can all contribute to respiratory issues in degus. Symptoms to watch for include:

  • Wheezing or clicking sounds when breathing

  • Nasal or eye discharge

  • Reduced appetite and activity

Prevention:

  • Use low-dust bedding such as paper-based options or aspen shavings.

  • Clean the enclosure regularly, with daily spot cleans and weekly deep cleans.

  • Avoid placing the cage in drafty or damp areas.

If your degu shows signs of a respiratory infection, prompt veterinary treatment is essential.

Other Health Issues to Monitor

While the above are the most common concerns, keep an eye out for:

  • Obesity – Caused by lack of exercise or overfeeding high-fat seeds. Use exercise wheels and climbing structures to keep them active.

  • Skin Problems – Mites, fungal infections, or allergies can cause hair loss, itching, and redness.

  • Injuries – From falls, fights, or unsafe cage accessories. Always ensure accessories are secure and safe for climbing.

When to See a Vet

Because degus are prey animals, they often hide signs of illness until the condition becomes advanced. You should consult an exotic pet veterinarian immediately if you notice:

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Persistent lethargy

  • Changes in eating or drinking habits

  • Laboured breathing

  • Visible swelling or injury

A vet experienced in small animals can perform dental trims, prescribe medication, and advise on long-term care for chronic conditions.

With the right diet, enrichment, hygiene, and observation, many health problems in a degu rodent pet can be prevented or caught early. A little extra attention each day can make the difference between a short, troubled life and a long, happy one.

7. Pros and Cons of a Degu as a Pet

Before bringing home a degu rodent pet, it’s important to weigh the benefits and challenges so you know exactly what to expect. Degus can make fantastic companions for the right owner, but they aren’t the ideal pet for everyone.

Pros – Why a Degu as a Pet Can Be a Wonderful Choice

1. Social, Interactive, and Entertaining
Degus are naturally social animals that enjoy interaction, not just with other degus but also with their human caretakers. With regular handling and patience, they can become curious, friendly companions who climb onto your hands, take treats gently, and even respond to your voice. Their playful antics – from leaping between platforms to exploring new toys – make them endlessly fun to watch.

2. Active During the Day
Unlike hamsters or many other rodents, degus are diurnal, meaning they’re most active during daylight hours. This makes them a great choice for people who want to interact with their pets without staying up late at night. You can enjoy their foraging, chewing, and exploring behaviours as part of your daily routine.

3. Longer Lifespan Compared to Other Rodents
While mice and hamsters typically live only 1–3 years, a healthy degu as a pet can live 5–8 years with proper care. This longer lifespan allows for a deeper bond and gives you more time to enjoy their unique personalities.

4. Unique Personalities
No two degus are alike. Some may be bold and adventurous, while others are more cautious and reserved. Watching their personalities develop over time is part of the joy of keeping them.

5. Fun to Enrich and Train
Because degus are so intelligent, you can train them to take food from your hand, come when called, or navigate simple mazes. They respond well to foraging challenges, toys, and rearranged cage setups, making them a rewarding pet for owners who enjoy providing enrichment.

Cons – The Challenges of Degu Ownership

1. Require Large Cages and Daily Enrichment
Degus need far more space than many people expect. A small cage simply won’t do – they require multi-level enclosures with plenty of accessories like ramps, platforms, chew toys, and foraging opportunities. Without daily stimulation, they can become bored and develop behavioural issues such as chewing cage bars or fighting with cage mates.

2. Cannot Have Sugary Treats
Due to their genetic intolerance to sugar, you’ll need to be vigilant about what your degu eats. Many store-bought small pet treats contain dried fruit, honey, or molasses, which are harmful to degus. Instead, you’ll need to stick to low-sugar, natural treats like Freeze-Dried Pumpkin or Dried Carob Pieces.

3. Must Be Kept in Pairs or Groups
A single degu can become lonely, stressed, and even depressed. This means you’ll need to commit to caring for at least two, ideally a bonded pair or same-sex group. More degus also mean more space, more food, and more cleaning.

4. Not Ideal for Very Young Children
While degus can be gentle, they move quickly and may not tolerate rough handling. They’re best suited to adults or responsible older children who understand how to interact with small animals.

5. Long-Term Commitment
That longer lifespan is a wonderful thing – but it’s also a responsibility. You’ll need to plan for their care over several years, even during life changes like moving home, changing jobs, or starting a family.

Is a Degu Right for You?

If you’re looking for a lively, social, and intelligent pet and you’re willing to provide a spacious, enriched environment and commit to a sugar-free diet, a degu rodent pet can be a deeply rewarding choice.

However, if you have limited space, want a pet that requires minimal daily care, or are unsure about keeping multiple animals together, you might want to consider other small pets first.

To see everything you’ll need to give your degus a happy, healthy life, visit the Degu Collection at Moony Paw.

8. Where to Get Supplies

Finding the right products for your degu rodent pet can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to degu care. Many items sold for “small animals” aren’t actually suitable for degus, particularly when it comes to diet and enrichment. That’s why it’s so important to shop with a trusted retailer that understands their unique needs.

At Moony Paw, we specialise in safe, natural, and species-appropriate products to keep your degu as a pet happy, healthy, and engaged. Every product is carefully selected with your pet’s wellbeing in mind – no sugary treats, no unsafe materials, and plenty of enrichment options that mimic their natural behaviours.

Complete Range for Every Degu Need

Whether you’re setting up your first degu enclosure or refreshing your current setup, you’ll find everything in one place:

Species-Specific Shopping

For a quick way to find exactly what’s safe and suitable, head to our dedicated Degus Collection. Here, you’ll find products carefully chosen for their safety, nutritional value, and enrichment potential – no guesswork required.

Why Choose Moony Paw for Your Degus

  • Natural & Safe – No harmful additives, artificial colours, or unsafe materials.

  • Degu-Friendly Diet Options – Everything we offer is sugar-free and nutritionally appropriate.

  • Enrichment-Focused – We prioritise toys, chews, and forages that keep your degus physically and mentally stimulated.

  • Trusted by Small Animal Owners – We understand the needs of degus because we love small animals as much as you do.

By shopping at Moony Paw, you’re not just buying supplies – you’re giving your degus the quality care they deserve.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a degu rodent pet is a commitment that blends responsibility with joy. These intelligent, social, and lively animals reward attentive owners with years of companionship, fascinating behaviour, and unique personalities. But to truly see your degu as a pet thrive, you need to be prepared to meet their needs in three key areas:

  • Nutrition – A diet centred on unlimited hay, botanical forage, and degu-safe treats keeps them healthy inside and out, while also supporting natural chewing and foraging behaviours.

  • Environment – A spacious, multi-level enclosure filled with safe bedding, chew toys, and climbing structures will encourage exercise and exploration every day.

  • Social & Mental Stimulation – Daily interaction, whether through gentle handling, foraging games, or training, strengthens your bond and keeps your degus engaged and happy.

When you provide the right care, you’re not just keeping a pet – you’re giving your degus a rich, fulfilling life that mirrors the activity and variety they’d enjoy in the wild.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to welcome these curious little creatures into your life, make sure you have everything they’ll need from day one. At Moony Paw, you’ll find a complete range of safe, natural, and enrichment-focused products designed specifically for small animals, including:

  • Forage to promote healthy digestion and encourage natural grazing.

  • Sprays for added variety and enrichment.

  • Chews to maintain healthy teeth.

  • Accessories for comfort, fun, and mental stimulation.

  • Treats to reward and bond without compromising their health.

  • The dedicated Degus Collection for species-specific essentials.

With the right preparation, your degu rodent pet will not just survive but thrive — providing years of entertainment, affection, and memorable moments. So start your journey today, and give your degus the safe, happy, and engaging home they deserve with Moony Paw by your side.

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