Degus are social animals that can form strong family groups, and breeding can result in several adorable but demanding babies. If you are considering breeding your degus—or discover that your female is pregnant—understanding the breeding process and how to prepare for newborns is important.
Recognizing Degu Breeding Behavior
Degu breeding can be fairly noticeable. Common behaviors may include the male grooming the female, tail wagging, nose-to-nose contact, nuzzling, trembling, and chasing the female around the enclosure.
Following mating, the male may make loud, repetitive squeaking sounds that are different from his normal daily vocalizations. These sounds can continue for several minutes.
Signs of Pregnancy
One of the early signs of pregnancy may be increased nest-building activity. A pregnant female and her mate may begin creating a larger or more elaborate nest in preparation for the babies.
As pregnancy progresses, an increase in the female's abdominal size may become noticeable, particularly during the final portion of the approximately 90-day gestation period.
Because pregnancy can be difficult to confirm at home, consult an exotic-animal veterinarian if you suspect your degu is pregnant. A veterinarian can help monitor the mother and developing babies and provide guidance specific to your animals.
Caring for a Pregnant Degu
Pregnancy is a time to minimize unnecessary stress. Handle a pregnant female gently and only when necessary, particularly as she gets closer to giving birth. Continue providing a balanced, species-appropriate diet along with fresh water and plenty of hay.
Avoid making sudden changes to her diet. If additional vegetables or other foods are being introduced, discuss appropriate choices and quantities with an exotic-animal veterinarian.
Degus generally reproduce seasonally, and responsible breeding should take into account the health, age, genetics, and housing needs of both parents and any resulting offspring.
Welcoming Degu Babies
Litter sizes can vary considerably. A degu may have only a few babies or considerably more, so it is important to be prepared for the possibility of a larger litter.
Newborn degus are vulnerable during their first days of life. They need warmth, nutrition, and attentive parental care. Avoid unnecessary handling immediately after birth, particularly during the first week, while the babies are developing and becoming more independent.
The father should not automatically be separated from the mother and babies. In established family groups, the father can play an important role in caring for and protecting the young. However, every situation is different, and a veterinarian should be consulted if either parent displays aggression toward the babies or if there are concerns about the family's safety.
Supporting Growing Babies
Degu babies should generally remain with their parents and littermates for several weeks as they develop social skills and become increasingly independent. A veterinarian can help determine the appropriate weaning and separation schedule and ensure that the babies are developing normally.
If supplemental feeding becomes necessary, ZooPro Milk Replacer 32/40 can be useful as part of a veterinarian-guided feeding plan. Hand-feeding very young animals requires careful technique, and supplemental formula should not replace veterinary care when a newborn is struggling to nurse or thrive.
For caregivers who need to handle or examine young degus, a Calming Glove can provide an additional layer of protection and may make handling less stressful. Always use gentle handling and avoid unnecessary restraint.
As babies begin growing and becoming more active, Degu Booster can provide additional nutritional support when appropriate. Follow product directions and consult an exotic-animal veterinarian about the nutritional needs of growing degus.
Planning Ahead
Breeding degus requires preparation for pregnancy, birth, nursing, growing babies, and potentially additional housing as the offspring mature. Before intentionally breeding, make sure you have appropriate cages, food, enrichment, veterinary support, and a plan for the lifelong care of every baby.
If you discover an unexpected pregnancy, don't panic. Provide a quiet, safe environment, maintain proper nutrition, minimize unnecessary stress, and contact an exotic-animal veterinarian for guidance throughout the pregnancy and after birth.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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