Many degu owners assume that because degus are small rodents, they hide illness like hamsters do. In reality, degus are social, diurnal animals that often show clear behavioral changes when unwell, such as reduced grooming or altered activity patterns. Recognizing these early signs is crucial because degus can decline rapidly, especially with common issues like dental disease or diabetes.
Our editorial team emphasizes that degus have unique health vulnerabilities, including a high risk of diabetes due to their poor insulin regulation and a tendency for overgrown teeth because their molars grow continuously. Knowing what to look for can make a life saving difference.
Behavioral Changes That Signal Sickness in Degus
Degus are naturally active, curious, and social. A sick degu often becomes lethargic, hides more than usual, or shows reduced interest in wheel running or exploring. They may also become irritable or aggressive when handled, which is out of character for a normally friendly degu.
Pay attention to eating and drinking habits. A sudden increase in thirst (polydipsia) is a classic sign of diabetes in degus, especially if paired with weight loss despite a good appetite. Conversely, a decreased appetite or difficulty eating hard foods like hay or pellets can indicate dental pain. Degus with dental issues often drool, paw at their mouth, or eat slowly with food falling from their mouth.
Physical Symptoms to Monitor in Your Degu
Check your degu’s eyes and nose for discharge. Healthy degus have bright, clear eyes and clean nostrils. Any crusty buildup, sneezing, or wetness around the nose could signal a respiratory infection, which is common in degus if bedding is dusty or humidity is low.
Inspect the coat and skin. A dull, ruffled coat or patches of fur loss (alopecia) can indicate stress, parasites, or underlying illness. Also, feel for lumps or swellings, especially around the jaw area, which may point to abscesses or tooth root problems. Degus’ teeth should be a healthy yellow orange; chalky white or brown discoloration suggests a mineral imbalance or dental disease.
Digestive and Urinary Signs of Illness in Degus
Degus have sensitive digestive systems. Diarrhea or unusually soft, smelly stools can be a sign of bacterial imbalance, parasites, or improper diet (too many sugary treats). Conversely, small, hard, or absent droppings may indicate constipation or a gut blockage, which is an emergency. Healthy degu droppings are firm, dark, and oval.
Urinary issues also occur. Straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or frequent urination can point to bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or diabetes. Degus are prone to bladder stones, especially if fed a high calcium diet. Any change in urination warrants a vet visit.
Weight and Posture: Subtle Clues of Degu Health Issues
Weigh your degu weekly with a kitchen scale. A weight loss of 10% or more over a few days is serious and often indicates illness. Degus with diabetes may lose weight despite eating more, while those with dental problems lose weight due to reduced food intake.
Observe your degu’s posture. A hunched back, reluctance to move, or sitting in a balled up position can indicate pain or discomfort. Degus in pain may also grind their teeth (bruxism) loudly, which is different from the soft grinding of contentment. Rapid or labored breathing, especially if accompanied by a clicking sound, suggests respiratory distress and requires immediate veterinary attention.