Creating a Safe and Cozy Home for Your Degu Friends

If you are a proud degu owner, you know that these cute little critters are curious and playful creatures that need a spacious and comfortable enclosure to thrive. Whether you are a new owner or a seasoned one, providing a proper degu enclosure is essential to ensure your pets' well-being. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and ideas to create a cozy and safe home for your degu friends.

In this article, we will cover the following:

Degu Cages: Choosing the Right One for Your Pet
Bedding and Nesting Materials: Creating a Soft and Cozy Habitat for Your Degus
Toys and Accessories: Keeping Your Degus Active and Happy

Degu Cages: Choosing the Right One for Your Pet

When it comes to degu cages, bigger is always better. Degus are highly active and social animals, and they need a lot of space to play, exercise, and explore. A minimum cage size for two degus should be at least 24" x 24" x 18" (L x W x H), but if you have more than two degus, you should consider a larger enclosure.

What Kind of Degu Enclosure Should I Get? What Material?

There are many types of degu cages on the market, including wire cages, plastic modular cages, and glass terrariums. Each has its pros and cons, so it's essential to choose the one that suits your degus' needs and preferences.

Wire cages are the most popular option because they allow for good ventilation and easy cleaning, but they may not be suitable for degus that chew a lot. If your cage consists mainly of meshed floors, it is essential to place shelves inside your cage to provide somewhere for your Degus to stand when their feet are sore. These can be basic pieces of wood (prepared properly and sanded from the safe wood list, preferably untreated pine around 0.75 inch thick) screwed to the side of the cage or rested on.

Plastic modular cages are more durable but they aren’t always chew-proof. Degus teeth are strong and they can break through some plastic cages in less than one night if the cage material isn’t tough enough and you may end up losing them.

Glass terrariums or vivariums are good for degus that love to climb, but they need more maintenance to keep the humidity level in check. You also need to make sure they have plenty of space.

Your Degu’s Cage Floor

Opt for a solid floor made of metal and not a floor made of wire mesh. If the floor is made of wire mesh, it can be lined with bedding, although ceramic tiles should be placed on the mesh to prevent injuries. The base of the cage needs to have solid metal construction to prevent bumble foot, with the sides being wire mesh that should leave no more than a 0.75 inch x 0.75 inch gap to prevent chances of escape for young Degus.

Secure the Cage Doors

Degus are intelligent and fast creatures. They can easily escape if the cage door isn’t secured properly. Young children may also be tempted to open the door and handle your degus, so it’s best to use a lock to ensure that the cage doors remain secure.

Your Degu Cage Should Include a Nest Box

Degus need a nest box to sleep in, providing warmth, shelter and shade. A wooden nest box is recommended, ensure it is not varnished or treated with anything that could be harmful towards your pet. For bedding, small animal bedding from your local stores are fine, including wood shavings and hay.

The size of the box should be enough to accommodate all your Degus. If your nest does not have a base, place a shelf underneath so that they are not sleeping on wire. You can even place a cool tile underneath to keep them cool during summer months.

Degu Cage

Bedding and Nesting Materials: Creating a Soft and Cozy Habitat for Your Degus

Degus love to burrow and nest, and providing them with soft and comfortable bedding is essential for their health and well-being in their cage. There are many types of bedding materials available, such as wood shavings, paper-based bedding, hay, and fleece. Avoid cedar and pine shavings, as they contain oils that can irritate your degus' respiratory system.

You can also add nesting materials such as shredded paper, hay, and coconut fiber to your degus' enclosure to create a cozy and warm space for them to rest and sleep. Avoid using cotton or fabric materials that can cause respiratory problems or entangle your degus.

Toys and Accessories: Keeping Your Degus Active and Happy

Degus are intelligent and curious animals that need mental stimulation and physical activity to prevent boredom and stress. Providing them with toys, chews, and accessories can keep them entertained and happy.

Some popular degu toys include chew blocks, tunnels, ropes, and exercise wheels. You can also provide your degus with branches, rocks, and other natural items to climb and explore. Make sure to avoid plastic toys or objects that can be easily chewed and ingested.

In addition to toys, you can also add accessories such as water bottles, food dishes, and hiding spots to your degus' enclosure to make them feel safe and comfortable. Make sure to clean and sanitize all toys and accessories regularly to prevent bacteria and mold growth.

Creating a Safe and Happy Home for Your Degus

In conclusion, providing a proper degu enclosure is essential to ensure your pets' health and happiness. By choosing the right cage, bedding, and toys, and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment, you can create a safe and cozy home for your degu friends. Remember to monitor their behavior and health regularly and consult a veterinarian if you notice any signs of illness or distress. With proper care and attention, your degus can live a long and happy life in their new home.

7 Facts About Degu Enclosures:

Degus are unique and fascinating animals that require special care and attention to thrive. If you are a degu owner or thinking about getting one, here are seven facts you should know about degu enclosures.