Mary Allen
25 to 31 centimeters small, 170 to 300 grams light: Yes, one could quickly assume that a degu does not need much space because it is a small bug. But that is actually a mistake. PetReader explains to you about the little degus with their big demands.
Degus are Sociable and Need a Lot of Space
Surprise number 1: the space required. The size of the degu enclosure depends on the number of animals. Since degus live in groups, it makes no sense at all to keep them individually. A couple needs at least two square meters of floor space. Otherwise, the understandable rule of thumb applies: the larger the enclosure, the happier the animals. And don’t forget: These guys are happy about several floors because they like to run, jump and climb.
Boredom Killers for the Enclosure
The second surprise is the need for boredom killers: every ladder is climbed, every tunnel is passed, every bridge is conquered and every cave is explored. Degus whiz over ramps, test seesaws, relax in the hammock, and rub their fur in the sand bath. Degus also need food and water bowls, sleeping houses, and toys.
Degus Gnaw Their Way Into Freedom
The third surprise is that degus are escape kings: they are inspecting their home for an opportunity to break free. You can thwart the degu freedom plan with a sturdy, narrow grid or with panes of glass. Accordingly, the furnishings and the enclosure must also be stable.
Vegetarians With a Desire for Variety
Surprise number 4: Degus are vegetarian gourmets and love a culinary variety. Favorite food is hay from morning to night to keep your teeth and digestion fit. For healthy, shortened pearly whites, twigs are also nibbled. Leaves, herbs, and flowers are just as much a part of the gourmet menu as seeds, kernels, grains, and vegetables. Fruit should be omitted or used sparingly because the sugar in the fruit can make you fat, damage your teeth and cause diabetes. Corn kernels are a snack alternative.
At Degus, There is Something Going on Day and Night
Need another surprise? Degus are not only active during the day, but also at night. So it doesn’t hurt if there is a door between your bedroom and the degu home that you can close for the sake of your own night’s sleep.
Communication: Screaming, Whistling, Clucking
Don’t be frightened if a degu screams for minutes – most of the time, he just gets angry at such a moment and shares it loudly with his surroundings. Perhaps a buddy played along with him, he was frightened, woke up, or just couldn’t find a lady of the heart. If there is trouble in the Degu flatshare, Degus squeak angrily in front of them. And a degu warns of dangers with a whistle. On the other hand, the gurgling sounds nice as an expression of well-being.
Body Language Reveals That
Degus also speak to the body, of course. If a degu crouches and shows his side, the macho attitude is: “Look how tall I am – do you want to mess with me?” That is usually answered with a “No” and there is peace again. However, when it comes to ranking, bloody bites are also fought. You should then separate the fighters.
It is nicer when a degu jumps: an expression of joy and exuberance. Seen this way: If degus often jump, you’ve done everything right.