Haight, J. 2005. Husbandry of an atypical animal research model: The degu (Octodon degus). Tech Talk [The Newsletter for Laboratory Animal Science Technicians] 10(6).

Useful tips on the behavior, handling, diet, breeding and environmental enrichment of degus: One of the most important aspects to consider when housing the degu is social behavior. Animals should be pair housed, either as a breeding pair or same sex pairs, and cages should also be placed close to one another so that they can hear, smell, and if possible, see one another. Enrichment additions may include PVC tubes, Nyla Bones (or similar chewing bones), paper towels for shredding, food bowls, and running wheels. Sand baths should be offered at least once per week. Cages should be similar to that of the guinea pig or chinchilla in size. As previously mentioned, a variety of foods should also be offered.