Pampered Dog Blog

Degus, which are small rodents originating in Chile are becoming more and more popular as pets in the UK, even though a lot of people have never even heard of them. Degu pet health care is relatively simple as long as owners are prepared for the commitment.

Just as with other animals, degu pet health care requires a proper home for the animal. They’ll need a good sized cage which contains a water bottle and food bowl. Always position the cage away from cold and out of sunlight, in a quiet spot.

Cat litter makes a good bedding base, as do hay and shredded paper in which degus will love burrowing. Make sure to clean the cage at least once a week to avoid pet health care issues.

Diet wise, hard vegetables and hay are perfect for degus. But don’t feed them sugary foods because they could cause diabetes. Make sure clean water is readily available. The degus’ teeth constantly grow so must be worn down. Yellow or white teeth could indicate a pet health care problem: they should be orange.

Handling your pet might be a concern for beginners. As long as you take care to be gentle handling shouldn’t be a problem. If you pick them up, hold them gently underneath. Reaching for them from above may make them think you are a ‘predator.’ And never, ever pick them up by the tail. Degus’ tails will fall off if they are grabbed there. And it will not regrow. If this happens head to the vet’s as soon as possible.