Introduction: Understanding Degus and their Behavior

Degus are small, sociable rodents native to South America. They are intelligent and curious animals that are often kept as pets. They have a unique set of behaviors that make them fascinating to watch and interact with. However, one of the common behaviors that can be frustrating for pet owners is their tendency to bite on their cage. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help prevent it from happening.

Degus are Chewers – Reasons Why They Bite on Their Cage

One of the main reasons why degus bite on their cage is because they are natural chewers. Their teeth are constantly growing, so they need to chew on things to wear them down. If they don’t have appropriate items to chew on, they may resort to biting on their cage bars. Providing them with chew toys and wooden blocks can help satisfy their chewing needs and prevent them from biting on their cage.

Another reason why degus bite on their cage is because they might be trying to escape. If they feel cramped or uncomfortable in their cage, they may try to gnaw on the bars to make a hole and escape. This is why it’s important to provide them with a spacious cage with plenty of room to move around and play. A larger cage will also allow you to add more toys and enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.

Cage Size and Space – How it Affects Degus’ Behavior

Degus are active animals that need plenty of space to move around and play. If they are kept in a small cage, they may become bored, stressed, and frustrated, which can lead to biting on their cage. The minimum recommended cage size for a pair of degus is 24 x 18 x 24 inches, but a larger cage is always better. The cage should also have multiple levels, ramps, and hideouts to provide them with plenty of room to explore and play.

In addition to the size of the cage, the placement of the cage can also affect their behavior. Degus prefer to be in a quiet and peaceful area of the home, away from loud noises and disturbances. Placing their cage in a busy area or near a television or stereo can cause them to become stressed and anxious, which can lead to biting on their cage.

Degus are Social Creatures – Cage Mate Compatibility Matters

Degus are social animals that live in groups in the wild. They need the company of their own kind to be happy and healthy. If they are kept alone, they may become depressed, anxious, and bored, which can lead to biting on their cage. It’s important to keep degus in same-sex pairs or groups to provide them with the social interaction they need. However, it’s important to introduce them properly and monitor their interactions to ensure they get along.

If degus are not compatible with their cage mates, they may become aggressive towards each other, which can lead to biting on their cage. Signs of aggression include chasing, fighting, and biting. If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s important to separate them immediately and consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for advice on how to reintroduce them.

Boredom and Lack of Stimulation – How it Affects Degus

Degus are intelligent animals that need mental stimulation and enrichment to be happy and healthy. If they are kept in a boring and unstimulating environment, they may become bored and frustrated, which can lead to biting on their cage. Providing them with toys, tunnels, and other enrichment activities can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent them from biting on their cage.

One way to provide mental stimulation is to create a foraging environment in their cage. This can be done by hiding food and treats in different areas of the cage, or by using puzzle feeders that require them to work for their food. This will not only provide mental stimulation, but also encourage their natural foraging behavior.

Health Issues and Pain – Why Degus Might Bite on Their Cage

If degus are experiencing pain or discomfort, they may bite on their cage as a way of expressing their discomfort. Health issues such as dental problems, skin irritation, or digestive problems can cause pain and discomfort, which can lead to biting on their cage. It’s important to monitor your degus for any signs of illness or discomfort, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior. If you suspect that your degus may be in pain, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian for advice on how to treat the underlying issue.

Hunger and Thirst – How it Affects Degus’ Behavior

Degus need a well-balanced diet that includes hay, pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional treats. If they are not getting enough food or water, they may become agitated and bite on their cage as a way of expressing their hunger or thirst. It’s important to provide them with fresh food and water daily, and to monitor their intake to ensure they are getting enough to eat and drink.

In addition to providing them with a well-balanced diet, it’s important to avoid feeding them foods that are toxic or harmful to their health. Foods such as chocolate, avocado, and dairy products can be toxic to degus and should be avoided.

Territorial Aggression – How it Affects Degus’ Behavior

Degus can be territorial animals, especially towards other degus of the same sex. If they feel that their cage or territory is being threatened, they may become aggressive and bite on their cage as a way of defending their space. It’s important to provide them with plenty of space and resources to prevent territorial aggression. This includes providing multiple hideouts, food dishes, and water bottles in their cage.

If you notice any signs of territorial aggression, such as chasing, fighting, or biting, it’s important to separate them immediately and consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for advice on how to reintroduce them.

Handling and Taming Degus – Tips and Techniques

Degus can be timid and skittish animals that may take some time to get used to handling. It’s important to approach them slowly and calmly, and to avoid sudden movements or loud noises that can startle them. You can start by offering them treats from your hand to help build trust and positive associations.

Once they are comfortable with taking treats from your hand, you can start handling them by gently picking them up and holding them close to your body. It’s important to support their whole body and avoid squeezing or pulling on their tail.

Conclusion: How to Prevent Degus from Biting on Their Cage

Degus are fascinating and intelligent animals that can make great pets. However, their tendency to bite on their cage can be frustrating for pet owners. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help prevent it from happening. By providing them with a spacious cage, social interaction, mental stimulation, and a well-balanced diet, you can help keep your degus happy and healthy. If you notice any signs of illness or discomfort, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian for advice on how to treat the underlying issue. With patience and proper care, you can enjoy a happy and rewarding relationship with your degus.