Degus are intelligent, curious rodents native to Chile, and like any exotic pet, they have specific dietary needs to keep them healthy and happy. In the wild, degus thrive on a fibrous, low-sugar diet made up mostly of bulbs, tubers, and bark. While these foods aren't practical for most pet owners to source, it's still essential to mimic their nutritional profile in captivity.
At Exotic Nutrition, we’ve developed a wide range of Degu-safe foods and enrichment items designed to support their digestive health, dental hygiene, and natural foraging instincts.
Core Diet: Pellets and Hay
Your degu’s daily diet should consist primarily of a balanced, fortified pellet feed and high-fiber hay.
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Degu Diet with Whole Oats is a scientifically formulated pellet that provides all the nutrients degus need for growth, maintenance, and reproduction. It also contains coarse, fibrous ingredients that help wear down ever-growing teeth and satisfy their natural need to chew.
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For additional variety, consider Rodent Blocks—a hearty, fiber-rich blend that adds natural texture and variety to their diet.
Feed pellets free-choice, meaning your degu should have access to them throughout the day. Always pair pellets with an ample supply of Timothy Hay or hay-based products like:
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Timothy Pellets – compressed, easy-to-feed hay alternative
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Timothy Puff Sticks – crunchy sticks that promote both nutrition and chewing
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Timothy Nibblers - easy to scatter and hide for enrichment and dental health
Fresh Vegetables & Safe Greens
In addition to their main diet, degus benefit from fresh vegetables a few times per week. Stick with low-sugar, high-fiber options like:
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Yellow vegetables – e.g., raw sweet potatoes (peeled and uncooked, with skins and roots removed)
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Green vegetables – e.g., dandelion greens, romaine lettuce, kale (in moderation)
Avoid vegetables from the cabbage family, and if collecting dandelions or greens from outdoors, ensure they are pesticide-free.
Healthy Treats (In Moderation)
Degus love to forage and snack, but not all treats are safe. Avoid any high-sugar treats like dried fruit, yogurt drops, or honey-based snacks—these can disrupt their digestive system and contribute to serious health issues like diabetes.
Instead, offer safe, natural treats like:
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Dandelion Root – high in fiber and a favorite among degus
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Pea Flakes – crunchy and protein-rich
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Crunchy Swirls – wholesome, naturally colored, grain-based treats
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Salad Essentials – dried herbs and flowers for variety
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Wax Snacks (Dried Wax Worms) – use sparingly for added protein
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Rose Hips – rich in vitamin C and great for immune support
Treats should make up no more than 5–10% of your degu's total diet. Use them for bonding, foraging activities, or training exercises—but always in moderation.
Water and Feeding Equipment
Degus are very active and curious, and they tend to chew or toss around lightweight feeding dishes. To prevent spills and keep their food clean and accessible, it's best to use a sturdy food bowl made of stainless steel or ceramic.
Avoid using plastic bowls, as they are easily chewed and can harbor bacteria or sharp edges once damaged.
Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Because degus love to chew, opt for a chew-proof bottle like our Glass Water Bottle. Plastic bottles may quickly become damaged or contaminated.
Hang the bottle on the outside of the cage to prevent chewing. Regularly wash food dishes and water bottles with warm, soapy water to maintain good hygiene and prevent mold or bacterial growth.
Enrichment and Chewing Needs
Degus are highly active rodents with a natural drive to chew. If not given the proper outlets, they may chew on their cage, accessories, or even hurt themselves.
To promote healthy teeth and reduce boredom, provide items like:
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Our Signature Chews – an assortment of natural materials designed to relieve boredom
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Pumice stones or mineral chews – help prevent overgrown teeth
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Natural branches and wood toys (untreated and pesticide-free)
Enrichment helps mimic their wild behavior, supports dental health, and prevents destructive habits.
Diet Transitions and Storage
If you're switching your degu’s food, do so gradually over 7–10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with the old to allow their digestive system to adjust.
Store pellets in a cool, dry place, and use food within six months of purchase to ensure optimal vitamin and nutrient levels. Avoid freezing pellets, as it doesn't effectively extend their shelf life and may impact freshness.
Final Thoughts
A balanced, low-sugar, high-fiber diet is essential for your degu’s health. By focusing on fortified pellets, unlimited hay, and carefully chosen fresh foods and treats, you’ll be helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.
Explore our full line of Degu products to find everything you need—from nutritionally balanced diets to engaging treats and enrichment tools. With the right care and nutrition, your degu will thrive in your home for years to come.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
Exotic Nutrition is proud to serve hundreds of universities, zoological parks, veterinarians, research centers and other institutions seeking to advance the health and well-being of exotics worldwide. See a full list of institutions using our products here.
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