Feeding: How Much and How Often
Degus are eager eaters. They burn up a lot of calories with all their activities and require even more food if they are growing, pregnant, or nursing their young. Degus will stockpile food in their nest box for safekeeping. It is all right for them to hide away a little bit of food, but if you find a huge stash in the nest box, then it is time to reduce the amount you are feeding.
If your degus have babies, it is safer to have a little bit of extra food available within their reach. Although they depend on their mother's milk for the first five to six weeks of their lives, they will begin nibbling on solid food (Degu Complete) as early as one day of age. The mother degu will also need her share of additional food to enable her to provide enough body heat and milk to successfully raise her young.
Potentially Harmful Foods
Do not feed your degus cooked or processed foods. These are not good for them and may be lacking in vitamins or contain food additives and preservatives.
Do not feed your degus chocolate (which contains theobromine, a product similar to caffeine) or other candies. If you are not sure about the safety or nutritional benefit of any food type, simply do not feed it to your pet. If you wish to provide a special "treat" other than fresh vegetables, fruits, or seeds, be sure to purchase commercial products from the pet store that are made especially for rodents.
Looking for more information? Browse our archive of Degu Help & Education or Find an Accredited Veterinarian.
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Please Note: Exotic Nutrition is not able to provide specific health and care guidelines on an individual basis. Please contact an accredited veterinarian if you have a pet emergency.