Degu

Size:
20-31 cm
Weight:
0,1-0,25 kg
Origin:
Chile
Lifespan:
6-8 years
Color:
brown-white, brown-red
Suitable as:
!-suitable-as-!
Character:
FCI groups:
!-fci groups-!
Character
social, active, easy to care, curious
Attitude
In pairs, large cage with employment possibilities
Nutrition
Herbs, grasses, seeds
Price
from 10 €
Diurnal
Intelligence
Employment
Attitude in the apartment
Suitability for children
    little:

    much:

Originally the Degus from Chile, where they mainly inhabit steppe landscapes. They build underground burrows where they sleep or retreat in case of danger.

Degus are diurnal and live together in groups. In recent years they have become increasingly popular pets. If degus are kept in a small group in a spacious enclosure, they never get bored watching them play, dig and climb.

Acquiring Degus

Degus are group animals and should therefore have at least one partner. A group can consist of up to five animals.

Animals from the same litter get along best. If both sexes are kept, very soon numerous degu offspring must be expected. In the beginning it is best to choose two or three females.

Degus can be obtained from the following sources:

Pet Store

Meanwhile you can find degus in many pet stores. They are also the first port of call for most beginners. However, you should pay attention to some points to get healthy animals:

  • The cages of the degus should be spacious and varied. Of course, they should also make a neat and clean impression. Food and water should look fresh.
  • The degus themselves should make a lively and lively impression. The eyes should be clear, nose and anus should be clean.
  • The staff should be able to answer your questions calmly.

Breeder

If you get one or more degus from a breeder, you usually attach importance to a certain coat color. Degu breeders often exhibit their animals at small animal fairs or advertise in trade magazines.

At the breeder you should pay attention to the same points as at the pet store.

Animal Welfare

Like many other rodents, many degus are unfortunately sitting in animal shelters. A look at their local animal shelter is therefore worthwhile in any case. The advantage of shelter animals is that they have already been medically examined and are often already trusting. You can also take a look at our animal welfare pages.

Degu

From Private People

Since degus reproduce very often and in large numbers, degu offspring are more common even among ordinary degu keepers. These then often advertise in local ad papers to place the little ones. Often these animals are given away for free or for a small fee.

Degus And Children

Degus are small and agile. In addition, they do not have a fixed day-night rhythm, but also like to run around at night or move into their little house during the day. All this makes them rather unsuitable as a pet for smaller children.

Older children and teenagers from about 12 years on may already enjoy watching and caring for the degus. However, as with all other animals, the parents are of course responsible for cleaning the cage, feeding and care.

In any case, it must be clarified in advance where the very spacious cage should be placed. In children’s rooms there is often not enough space, so that other rooms have to be used. In addition, degus also need quiet during their sleeping phases, so they can easily be disturbed by music or loud playing.

FAQ About The Degu

What is a Degu?

A Dego is a rodent that originated in Chile.

How old does a Degu become?

A degu can live 6 to 8 years.

How big can a degu get?

Degus usually grow between 20 and 30 cm tall.

What do degus eat?

Degus like to eat herbs, grasses and seeds.

How should degus be kept?

Degus do best when they are allowed to grow up with a conspecific to play with. They also need ample space and play opportunities to keep them occupied.

Are degus diurnal or nocturnal?

Degus are among the few rodents that are diurnal.

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