How early on should I handle my Degu?

Question

Today I bought two male degu's, but since putting them in their cage they are very quiet and hardly moving and will not let me pick them up. Is it too early to try and handle them or would it make them feel more comfortable with me? Thanks

Answer 1

Keep trying.  Degus are social, but require frequent handling to human-socialize them and keep them human-friendly.  Don't push them though, put a treat on the tip of your finger and stick your hand in the cage.  Let them come to you, no matter how long it takes.  Degu's pack a nasty bite when they're scared.

Answer 2

It's not too early, really. You can always try to socialize with them.

Here are a couple of things you can do to help them feel comfortable with you. Degus are really sweet animals.

- Find any old t-shirts, sweaters, etc that smell like you and give it to them. That way they can use it to make a nest, and they'll get used to your smell.

- Just reach your hand in the cage and let them sniff it. Try not to make any sudden movements so they won't go off running and squeeking.

- Give them a sand bath. Let them roll around in it to feel 'at home'.

- Make sure their diet is healthy. A poor diet can not only affect their health (diabetes), but can make them feel poorly, just like us; Eat a whole bunch of fried or sugary food, you won't feel very well. As opposed to eating healthy things.

- Make sure they have plenty of timothy hay, things to climb and chew, and nesting material. That will calm their nerves and could end up feeling more open to a complete stranger (you) trying to touch them.

- Make sure their cage is big enough. They need lots of space and being cramped together won't do any well. Here is a 'guide' to how big your cage should be. http://www.octodons.ch/rechner/?lang=en

- Give them fresh veggies like spinach, broccoli, green beans, and lettuce (NOT iceberg). Hand feed it to them, so they know you are not intending on harming them.

Eventually, they will be out and about, and you'll have two wonderful friends. ^-^

Any other questions you need to ask, I recommend Paw-Talk.net. http://www.paw-talk.net/forums/f12/ There is quite a few degus owners, some who have owned them for 10 years+. They are always willing to help anyone.

Good luck with your two new little monsters! ^-^

-Jessica

Answer 3

Let them settle into the new home for a day and then try again tomorrow.