Degus are known for their natural chewing behavior, which is essential for maintaining dental health and mental stimulation. However, this behavior can sometimes lead to destructive habits if not appropriately managed. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss various strategies for dealing with chewing behavior in degus and encouraging appropriate habits to ensure a harmonious living environment for both the degus and their human caregivers.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Chewing Behavior

Before addressing chewing behavior, it's essential to understand the underlying reasons why degus engage in this activity:

  1. Dental Health: Degus have continuously growing incisors, and regular chewing helps wear down their teeth to prevent overgrowth and dental issues.

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  2. Mental Stimulation: Chewing provides mental enrichment for degus, helping them alleviate boredom and satisfy their natural instincts.

  3. Exploration and Communication: Degus use chewing as a way to explore their surroundings and communicate with their environment and fellow cage mates.

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Providing Appropriate Chewing Outlets

1. Chew Toys: Offer a variety of safe chew toys specifically designed for small rodents, such as wooden blocks, apple sticks, untreated wicker, and cardboard tubes. These toys provide an appropriate outlet for chewing and mental stimulation.

2. Enclosure Furnishings: Include chewable elements within the degu's enclosure, such as wooden branches, lava ledges, and other safe wooden structures. This allows them to engage in natural chewing behavior without causing damage to the enclosure.

3. Edible Hideouts: Provide edible hideouts made from safe materials like hay or edible cardboard. These not only serve as a cozy retreat but also encourage appropriate chewing behavior.

Environmental Management

1. Secure Wiring and Cables: Ensure that all electrical wiring and cables are securely tucked away or protected with chew-proof coverings to prevent potential hazards and discourage destructive chewing.

2. Safe Enclosure Furnishings: Use non-toxic, sturdy materials for the degu's enclosure furnishings to minimize the risk of damage from their chewing behavior.

3. Rotation of Toys: Regularly introduce new chew toys and rotate existing ones to maintain your degu's interest and prevent boredom-induced destructive chewing.

Behavioral Training and Enrichment

1. Positive Reinforcement: When your degu engages in appropriate chewing behavior, offer verbal praise and small treats to reinforce this positive habit.

2. Distraction Techniques: If you notice your degu attempting to chew on inappropriate objects, gently redirect their attention to a suitable chew toy or activity.

3. Environmental Enrichment: Provide ample opportunities for physical and mental enrichment, such as exercise wheels, tunnels, and interactive toys, to keep your degu engaged and less likely to resort to destructive chewing out of boredom.

Addressing Underlying Issues

1. Boredom and Stress: Evaluate your degu's living environment and daily routine to ensure they receive adequate mental and physical stimulation. Address any underlying boredom or stress factors that may contribute to excessive chewing.

2. Dental Health: Monitor your degu's dental health and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect any issues. Dental problems can lead to increased chewing behavior as a coping mechanism for discomfort.

3. Socialization: If your degu is housed alone, consider introducing a compatible cage mate to provide social interaction and mental stimulation, which can help reduce destructive chewing behavior.

Conclusion

By understanding the reasons behind chewing behavior, providing appropriate outlets for chewing, managing the degu's environment, implementing behavioral training and enrichment techniques, and addressing any underlying issues, you can effectively deal with chewing behavior in degus and encourage appropriate habits. With patience, consistency, and a proactive approach, you can create a harmonious living environment where your degu can engage in natural chewing behavior while minimizing destructive habits.

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