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Looking for the perfect degu? Our encyclopedia covers 1+ degu breeds with detailed info on temperament, health, exercise needs, and grooming requirements. Browse below to find your ideal match.

🐭1 Breeds

Degu Care Guide 2026

Degus are small, social Chilean rodents that are active during the day — unusual for small pets. They are intelligent, vocal, and must live in groups. Their extreme susceptibility to diabetes makes diet management critical.

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6-8 yrs

Average lifespan

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Must be kept in groups

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Diurnal

Active during daytime

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Large

Cage with exercise wheel

How to Choose the Right Degu

Social Needs

Degus MUST live in pairs or groups. A lone degu becomes depressed and ill.

Diet Restrictions

Extremely prone to diabetes — zero sugar, zero fruit, strict hay-based diet.

Activity

Diurnal (active during the day), unlike most small rodents. Great for daytime interaction.

Space

Need large, multi-level cages with an exercise wheel (at least 12 inches in diameter).

🐭 Types & Categories

Common Degu

Agouti (wild-type)

Brown, most common, hardy

Color Variations

Blue, Sand, Pied

Bred in captivity, same care needs

Browse All 1 Degu Breeds

Click on any breed to learn about their personality, care needs, and health considerations.

Small

Degu

Degus are highly social Chilean rodents related to chinchillas. They're diurnal (day-active), vocal, and extremely social - requiring same-species companions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can degus live alone?▼

No — degus are highly social and must live in pairs or groups. A solitary degu will become stressed, depressed, and may develop behavioral problems or health issues. Same-sex groups work best.

Are degus good pets for families?▼

Degus are excellent family pets because they are active during the day, social, and enjoy interaction. They can learn tricks and respond to their names. However, their strict dietary needs require responsible ownership.

How big of a cage do degus need?▼

Degus need large, multi-level cages with solid floors (not wire — they injure feet). Minimum size is 24x24x24 inches for a pair, but larger is better. They need a metal exercise wheel (12+ inches), shelves, and things to chew.

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Trusted sources: AVMA Pet Selection