Why Degus and Sugar Are a Dangerous Combination (And What to Feed Instead)
The Degu's Unique Metabolism
Degus evolved in an environment where sweet foods were essentially nonexistent. Their insulin response is limited as a result. When a degu eats sugar, it cannot metabolize it properly, and the cumulative effect leads to diabetes.
What Causes Diabetes in Degus
- Fruit of any kind — even low-sugar options fed regularly
- Sweetened treats marketed for other small animals
- Honey sticks and seed bars
- Dried fruit
- Commercial pellet diets with added sugars or molasses
- Corn — higher in sugar than most vegetables
What to Feed Instead
- Timothy hay — unlimited access at all times
- Degu-specific pellets — formulated without added sugars
- Fresh herbs — parsley, dandelion leaf, cilantro, and basil
- Unsweetened vegetables — leafy greens, cucumber, bell pepper, broccoli
Safe Treat Options
Dried herbs, hay cubes, small pieces of plain puffed rice cereal with no added sugar, and whole grain options without additives are all reasonable choices.
