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The Degu an introduction
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Degus are relatively new to the exotic pet scene but visit your local zoo and chances are they have been around for quite some time. Loved for their sweet and social nature, they are becoming more common as pets. If handled from a early age Degus can be very tame and affectionate.
Behavior: Degus are very social and owners should consider getting two or plan on spending alot of time with your Degu. Degus can suffer from lack of socialization issues such as aggression and in some cases even depression. The Degu is very playful and curious and active during the day, always looking for fun and interaction. The Degu is also known for its intelligent and "bubbly" personality and communicates through chirps and squeaks.
Life expectancy: Pet Degus live in between 5-8 and up to 10 years. Proper veterinarian care is a must as Degus age. A common problem is teeth and chewing problems ( referred to as "the slobbers" ) later in a Degus life.
Cage: Degus love climbing and need a large cage. Larger is better and a cage made for Chinchillas or ferret (with multi-levels) would work as well. Ideally the cage should have at least 2 levels and shelves where the Degu can perch and ladders (safe- without large holes) for the Degu to run up and down. A solid 11 inch exercise wheel is a must for a Degu cage also. You can add thick branches to the cage wall for climbing and chewing (just make sure they are safe for a pet).
For food dishes, heavy ceramic dishes work best because they are chew proof. You can add in a water bottle with a chew guard for water, just make sure your Degu is getting adequate water from it. Many of my animals prefer water dishes to water bottles because it is hard for them to get enough water out of the bottle. Another option for a water dish is picking up a dish that screws in to the side of the cage.
The cage should be made of wire since Degus love to chew. But make sure the cage floor, shelves, ledges, or anything else in the cage except the sides are NOT wire to prevent foot problems. Also provide a nest box with Degu safe bedding. I will post more links to cage information since this is important to a pets safety.
Diet: A mixture of 50-50 Chinchilla and Guinea Pig Pellets provide daily nutrients for a Degu. You can add in sweet potatoes, carrots, timothy hay, and fresh alph alpha for extra nutrients. Limited sunflower seeds can be given as an occasional treat. Degus must not be fed sugar, they cannot metabolize sugar. Also stay away from feeding your Degu the outside of potatoes (or green parts), starchy foods such as corn, and do not give your Degu to many carbohydrate rich foods.
A Degu sits in his cage.
(photo courtesy of: commons.wikimedia.org/
Note: Want to suggest an article or ask a question email me here: Runnner1000@gmail.com, I am always open to suggestions.
For more info: The Degu Diet , Degu Information , Degu Information Sheet , Breeding and diet information- Degus , Wikipedia-Degu , Degu Cage
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