Help me, I think my baby degus hate me! =[

Question

I just got two about four month old degus from a pet store about three hours ago. They seemed very active at first, running around their new cage. But then I held one, and it started running really fast, and she jumped out my hand and behind my desk! I had to grab her quite hard to keep her from running around my room. I don't think I hurt her though because she didn't squeak. Ever since then, both of the degus have just been standing in the same place, cuddled together usually, and looking scared and intense. The only time they ever move is when I touch them or make a loud noise. I also don't know if they even know where their food or water are. I recently just very slowly and gentle touched one on the back and she squeaked and ran away. Then they were both squeaking real loud for a while. They move so fast and I can never catch them, but I want to be able to calm them down and play with them so they aren't lonely. Just, please, tell me if this is normal behavior, I'm worried sick and I'm getting quite upset.

Answer 1

They are probably scared and stressed because they're in a new place with new people. They should calm down soon, if not are you sure she wasn't hurt after she jumped out of your hands?  

Answer 2

I don't know that much about degus, but I am sure they are like any other small animal. They are likely terrified because you are bigger than them and unfamiliar. I would suggest putting some food in your hand and trying to feed them. Keep trying to gently pet them and speak soothingly. It takes a while with nearly any pet to gain their trust. Don't give up :)