Can degus eat grains?
Better not: degus shouldn’t eat grains. The Zurich animal welfare society (Zürcher Tierschutz) lists grains among foods degus should never have. Germany’s Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare (TVT) warns that pure grain mixes can cause life-threatening digestive problems. The degu sources don’t name oats, rolled oats or wheat specifically – they’re all grains.
Good to know: The Swiss animal welfare society (STS) says a degu that is visibly ill or not eating must be seen by a vet without delay. PDSA adds that you should contact your vet as soon as possible if you notice anything unusual.
Better choices, for example
Sources
- Zürcher Tierschutz (Zurich animal welfare society) – Degus: Haltung
- TVT Merkblatt Nr. 154: Heimtiere – Degus (2023)
- Schweizer Tierschutz STS – Merkblatt Heimtiere: Gewöhnlicher Degu (2019)
- PDSA – Degus as pets
Last checked: November 2026