Degu
Day-active, sociable rodent from the Andes with strong social behavior and high intelligence.
SmallActiveChile
Origin & history
Native to the central Andes of Chile, where it lives in large colonies in underground burrows; increasingly kept as a pet since the 1990s for its day-active, sociable nature.
Care
Needs a large cage with plenty of climbing options and a daily dust bath. Strictly avoid sugar in any form - degus are prone to diabetes.
Ideal environment
Must be kept in groups - solitary housing is considered inhumane. Needs plenty of space for climbing and digging.
Feeding
Sugar-free diet: special degu food, hay, and selected herbs - fruit only in very small amounts due to diabetes risk.
Health
Highly prone to diabetes on a sugary diet. Teeth grow continuously, chew material is essential.