How to Create a Degu-Proofed Space

Degus are curious, energetic, and intelligent animals that love to explore. Providing them with supervised time outside their cage is a great way to enrich their lives — but it must be done safely. A degu-proofed space allows your pets to stretch their legs, exercise their minds, and bond with you, without risk of injury or destruction. In this post, we'll walk you through how to create the ideal degu-safe play area in your home.

Why Free Roam Time Is Important

In the wild, degus spend their days running, digging, and foraging. Although a spacious cage is essential, it cannot fully replicate this active lifestyle. Out-of-cage time gives them:

• Physical exercise
• Mental stimulation
• Social interaction
• A change of scenery

However, your home is full of hidden dangers — wires, gaps, toxic substances, and more. That’s why thorough degu-proofing is essential.

Choosing the Right Space

Select a small, enclosed area that can be easily monitored. Popular options include:

• A spare bedroom
• A bathroom (without water hazards)
• A hallway with doors closed
• A large indoor pen or playpen

Avoid open-plan spaces unless you can fully secure the environment. Always supervise your degus during free roam.

Step-by-Step Guide to Degu-Proofing

Block All Escape Routes

Degus can squeeze through tiny gaps and chew through soft materials.

• Seal off gaps under doors with draught excluders or wooden boards
• Use playpen panels or puppy fences to create clear boundaries
• Avoid spaces with holes in the skirting boards or floorboards
• Place cardboard or fleece at the bottom of walls if they like to chew corners

Remove Electrical Hazards

Degus love to chew — and that includes wires.

• Unplug or remove electrical items where possible
• Use cable protectors or plastic tubing to encase wires
• Tuck cords behind furniture or tape them out of reach
• Never allow degus near plug sockets or extension leads

Protect Furniture and Skirting Boards

Degus are expert chewers and can do surprising damage in minutes.

• Cover furniture legs with PVC pipe or metal sleeves
• Keep wooden furniture out of reach
• Move valuables and fragile items to higher shelves
• Avoid using soft furnishings like floor-length curtains or rugs in the play area

Check for Toxic Materials

Certain materials and household items can be dangerous if chewed or ingested.

• Remove houseplants (many are toxic to small animals)
• Keep cleaning products, toiletries, and aerosols out of the room
• Avoid rooms recently cleaned with strong chemicals
• Ensure bins are sealed or removed entirely

Provide Enrichment

Make the space fun and stimulating so your degus are less likely to get into trouble.

• Add cardboard boxes and tubes to explore
• Include wooden platforms, ramps, and bridges
• Offer digging trays with shredded paper or soil
• Scatter safe treats for foraging
• Rotate toys to keep things interesting

Use Safe Flooring

Degus may slip on smooth floors and can injure themselves if they fall.

• Lay down non-slip fleece blankets, bath mats, or foam play mats
• Avoid tile or laminate unless covered
• Do not use carpet in the play area if your degus are prone to chewing it

Supervising Play Time

Never leave degus unattended during free roam. Monitor them closely and be ready to gently redirect them if they start chewing something inappropriate. Keep sessions short to begin with (15–20 minutes) and gradually increase as they become more confident.

Watch for signs of stress, such as hiding, squealing, or freezing. If they seem overwhelmed, end the session and try again later.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Remove droppings and spot-clean after each session
• Wash blankets or fleece covers regularly
• Refresh and rotate toys every few days
• Store play area items in a dedicated box for quick setup

Final Thoughts

Creating a degu-proofed space is one of the best ways to enhance your pets' quality of life. It encourages natural behaviours, strengthens your bond, and keeps their minds and bodies healthy. With a bit of preparation and a lot of supervision, your degus will thrive in their safe, stimulating free roam environment.

Give your degus the space to explore, and they’ll reward you with curiosity, trust, and joy.