The degu, Chilean degu (Octodon degus)
It is a friendly, lively and very playful rodent.
It is essential to keep it in small colonies (always several females to one male), or at least in a pair, because it tolerates loneliness very poorly.
Its name comes from the fact that it has molars with folds that give the teeth the shape of an 8.
Living environment:
- It is a good climber, so it needs a vertical cage (at least 1500 cm²), with several levels; the décor will be made up of branches, toys and hiding places.
- A tray of soil is necessary for the upkeep of its coat.
- Bedding: a thick layer of hay renewed each week.
Diet:
- It is a herbivorous rodent; in the wild it feeds on grasses, bark, leaves and seeds.
- In captivity, a complete food specific to the degu: a mix of cereals, vegetables, fresh and dried fruit, seeds.
- Supplementation is possible with an intake of greenery and fruit.
Care:
No particular care needed.
Common diseases
The degu may present diabetes, dental disorders, a cataract, respiratory problems and fractures.
The degu is particularly prone to diabetes (a disorder of blood sugar). Sugar and fruit encourage the disease: it is better to avoid them. An animal that starts to drink and urinate a lot, or that loses weight, should be shown to a vet.
An eye that turns white or cloudy (cataract) is common in this species and often linked to diabetes. Its teeth grow throughout its life; in the degu, healthy teeth are normally orange in colour. If they wear down poorly (malocclusion), the animal drools, eats less and loses weight.
Beware of its very fragile tail: never pick it up by the tail, because the skin can come off.
When to see a vet promptly it drinks and urinates a lot, it loses weight, an eye turns white or cloudy, it drools or eats less.
When to see a vet urgently a very listless animal that stops eating, or difficulty breathing.
The veterinarian's advice to limit the risk of diabetes, avoid sugar and fruit, and favour hay and a diet suited to the degu.
Key points drinking and urinating a lot is a warning sign not to be overlooked in the degu. This information does not replace a consultation.