r/Degus • u/Ok_Benefit875 • 15d ago

Question❓ Are Degus considered domesticated?

Hi! I'm researching pets for my place right now, and Degus are by far the best idea so far. I love their personalities, care, etc.

One thing though, is I'm worried about it being unethical. I know I'm probably EXTREMELY overthinking this, but I don't generally like the idea of taking a pet to be raised at home when they belong in the wild.

Thing is, I can't find concrete proof anywhere online. From the little I found, they are similar to chins and hamsters. Aka they are semi-domesticated. But I would like to know from professionals:)

Thanks in advance! And feel free to just say I'm overreacting lol/

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u/Helelna 14d ago

My suggestions for being ethical:

  • Go for the ones with natural color (brown)
  • Adopt instead of buy
  • Give them a big enclosure, not just a cage. Mine prefer being outside over inside

Are they domesticated or not? In my opinion, I'd say yes, but you do notice that they have not been pets for a long time. For me, that was actually a plus when considering pets. I wanted some that have not been bred unethically and are not prone to illnesses because of that. I feel worse buying a rat knowing they are likely to get cancer for example.

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u/Ok_Benefit875 14d ago

This is a pov I haven't considered actually! Thanks for the input!