Companion Degus: Dental Health and Welfare

Degus are highly susceptible to dental disease, particularly when fed inappropriate diets. Understanding their nutritional and dental needs is central to their welfare.

Key Facts

Degus are strict herbivores with continuously growing teeth requiring constant abrasion through fibrous food
Degus are extremely susceptible to diabetes mellitus - sugar-containing treats and fruits cause severe harm
Dental malocclusion and elongated tooth roots are among the most common welfare problems in pet degus
Signs of dental disease include weight loss, drooling, preference for soft food, and facial swelling
X-rays are required to diagnose dental root elongation - oral examination alone is insufficient
Commercial degu diets are often inappropriate - a hay-based diet with limited pellets is recommended

Welfare Considerations

Dental welfare is the central welfare challenge in companion degus. These rodents have teeth that grow continuously throughout life and require a high-fibre, abrasive diet to maintain appropriate tooth length and alignment. Sweet foods including fruit and many commercial treats cause diabetes and dental problems. Many pet owners are unaware of these needs and feed inappropriate diets, leading to preventable chronic suffering. Welfare-positive degu keeping requires owner education about diet, regular veterinary dental monitoring, and willingness to undertake dental treatment when problems arise.

What You Can Do

Feed degus primarily hay with limited pellets - avoid any sweet foods including fruit
Schedule annual dental checks with a vet experienced in exotic small mammals
Learn the signs of dental disease in degus so problems are caught early
Research degu needs thoroughly before acquiring - they require specialised, informed care