What Do Degus Eat? Hay, Nuggets & Low-Sugar Treats
A degu diet should be high in fibre and very low in sugar. Good-quality hay is the foundation, supported by an appropriate plain degu nugget and carefully chosen fresh foods.
Hay comes first
The RSPCA advises providing constant access to good-quality feeding hay. Hay supports normal digestion and helps wear down continuously growing teeth. Replace damp or soiled hay and use several hay stations when one animal can guard access.
Choose plain nuggets
Use a nutritionally complete degu food without added molasses or honey. Uniform nuggets reduce selective feeding compared with colourful muesli-style mixes. Follow the manufacturer’s amount for the animals‘ weight and life stage, and change foods gradually.
Fresh food and treats
Offer only small portions of suitable leafy greens and introduce them slowly. Fruit, sweet root vegetables, yoghurt drops and other sugary snacks are poor choices because degus are particularly vulnerable to diabetes. Seeds and nuts are fatty, so they should not become routine treats. Fresh clean water must always be available, with bottles checked daily for flow and leaks.
Monitor the individual animal
Regularly check body condition, food intake, droppings and front teeth. Weight loss, drooling, reduced appetite or a sudden change in drinking can signal illness and needs prompt veterinary assessment. This guide provides general husbandry information and cannot diagnose an individual degu.
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