Degu
Degus are highly intelligent, social rodents native to Chile. Known for their playful personalities, curiosity, and strong bonds with both their owners and other degus, they make rewarding pets for owners willing to provide daily interaction and enrichment.
Difficulty
Lifespan
6–10 years
Diet
Herbivore
Space
Large multi-level enclosure with plenty of climbing opportunities, exercise space, and enrichment.
Overview
The Degu (Octodon degus) is a small rodent native to Chile. They are often described as a mix between a chinchilla, guinea pig, and squirrel due to their appearance and behavior. Unlike many small pets, degus are active during the day, making them excellent companions for owners who want to observe and interact with their pets.
Personality & Qualities
Degus are intelligent, curious, and highly social animals. They enjoy exploring, climbing, digging, and interacting with their companions. Many degus learn to recognize their owners and can become quite tame with regular positive interaction.
Daily Care
Provide fresh hay, water, and pellets daily. Spot-clean the enclosure regularly and provide plenty of toys and enrichment activities. Degus require daily mental stimulation and benefit from opportunities to climb, chew, and forage.
Diet
A healthy Degu diet should include: Unlimited timothy hay High-quality degu pellets Small amounts of safe leafy greens Dried herbs Occasional hay-based treats Avoid: Fruit Sugary treats Honey sticks Yogurt drops High-sugar vegetables Degus are highly prone to diabetes and should never be fed sugary foods.
Housing Requirements
Degus require spacious enclosures due to their active nature. Recommended setup includes: Large multi-level cage Minimum 800+ square inches of floor space Multiple shelves and ramps Hides and tunnels Chew toys Exercise wheel (12 inches or larger) Dust bath provided several times per week Deep bedding for digging Metal cages are preferred, as degus can easily chew through plastic.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 60–75°F Humidity: 30–50% Degus are sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to temperatures above 80°F for extended periods.
Common Mistakes
Housing a single degu alone Feeding sugary foods or fruits Providing inadequate cage space Using plastic accessories that can be chewed Lack of enrichment Overheating Insufficient chewing opportunities
Vet Care Recommendations
Annual wellness exams with an exotic or small mammal veterinarian are recommended. Monitor for dental disease, diabetes, obesity, respiratory infections, and skin issues. Regular dental evaluations are particularly important because degu teeth continuously grow throughout their lives.
Things to Know Before Buying
Degus are wonderful pets for owners looking for an intelligent, social, and interactive small animal. They require more attention and enrichment than many rodents and should ideally be kept with other degus. Prospective owners should be prepared for a commitment of up to 10 years and ensure they have access to an exotic veterinarian familiar with their care.
Legal & Responsibility Disclaimer
NJ Exotic Pets does not offer guarantees on any live animal. All veterinary care and associated costs are the sole responsibility of the purchaser. Please ensure you can legally keep this animal in your area before purchase.
Get This Guide in Your Inbox
Enter your email and we'll send you the complete Degu care guide.
Ready to take the next step?
Confirm that you've reviewed the care requirements before proceeding.
Bio-Educational Guidance Only — Consult an Avian/Exotic Veterinarian for Medical Intervention.