Najecki, D., Tate, B. A. 1999. Husbandry and management of the degu (Octodon degus). Lab Animal 28(3), 54-57.

The authors provide general information on morphological, physiological, and behavioral characteristics of the degu, as well as handling, diet, breeding, environmental enrichment, and disease management. .... Degus are very active and social [rodents] animals; indeed, in the absence of social interaction and physical stimulation, animal may become aggressive or self-mutilate (e.g., chew the hair off their feet and tails). In the laboratory, social interaction can include human interaction. Most of our animals enjoy having their fur ruffled or scratched, and will return the favor by attempting to groom the hand of the caretaker. ...Since degus are very active and social, we pair-house them, when possible, in breeding and same-sex pairs. ... We give the animals PVC tubes for burrowing.