Care guide
Caring for degus
Degus live 6 to 8 years, are awake in the day, and are very social: keep at least two. Their bodies don't handle sugar, so a sugar-free diet is essential to prevent diabetes.
No sugar
Feed unlimited hay, degu pellets and small amounts of leafy greens. Avoid fruit, carrots, corn, honey and treats with sugar or molasses; degus readily develop diabetes and cataracts.
Company and space
Keep degus in same-sex groups. Give a tall, solid-floored enclosure with metal shelves (they chew plastic and wood fast), deep bedding, a large solid wheel and a sand bath.
Handling
Never pick up a degu by its tail; it can lose the tail skin. Let them climb onto your hands.
Check your local rules; degus are restricted in some states.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 14, 2026.