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Why herbs are good for degus
Herbs fit a degu’s natural diet. Learn why they’re valuable, how to feed them safely (portions, variety, do’s & don’ts), and how to use herbs for enrichment and foraging in the enclosure.
This is why herbs are healthy for Degus
Herbs for degus are more than “a nice treat”: they match a degu’s natural menu (grasses, leaves and herbs) and add variety plus foraging fun. In this blog you’ll learn why herbs are such a smart add-on, what tends to work best, and how to use herbs safely and practically in your daily routine.
Why herbs suit degus so well
Degus (Octodon degus) are herbivores. In the wild they eat plenty of fibre-rich plants such as grasses, leaves and herbs. That’s why herbs are such a great fit: they help you
- add variety in texture and flavour (leaves, flowers, stems, roots) without relying on sugary or fatty snacks.
- support natural foraging behaviour: degus are smart, active and enjoy “working” for food.
- complement the basics alongside the foundation: unlimited hay + measured degu food/pellets.
Important note: when we say “herbs” for degus, we often mean forage-style mixes of dried leaves, flowers and plants—not just kitchen herbs. Want to shop species-specific options right away? Explore herbs for degus or fresh degu herbs.
Practical tip: many degu owners notice that a consistent “herb routine” (small portion, lots of variety) keeps degus active and can lead to calmer eating—especially when combined with a great hay area. Take a look at hay & hay racks for a tidy, inviting hay setup.
How to feed herbs safely: portions, variety & do’s/don’ts
- Keep the basics tight: unlimited hay remains the main event. Herbs are an add-on, not a replacement for hay or degu food.
- Start small and build gradually: begin with a small pinch or teaspoon of dried herbs for a group and observe.
- Choose “pure” and read the ingredients: avoid added sugars, honey, syrups or candied ingredients.
- Rotate instead of “lots of one thing”: mix leaves, flowers and stems. It stays interesting and easy to manage.
- Make it part of feeding: scatter a little through the hay or across several spots so degus have to search.
- Typical degu pitfall: degus usually do best with low-sugar choices. Keep sweet mixes minimal or skip them.
For a clear everyday routine, combine: degu food (high-fibre & low-sugar), hay and degu herbs.
Shop picks
Leaves, flowers and forage mixes to complement the daily routine. Great for scattering, mixing or hiding.
Browse degu herbsFresh greens can be extra enticing. Handy for small “green moments” and gentle transitions.
Browse fresh herbsHay stays the foundation. Herbal hay is an easy way to vary without losing the fibre focus.
Browse herbal hayUse herbs as “search food” in snack balls, puzzles and enrichment items for mental stimulation.
Browse enrichmentHerbs as enrichment: foraging, sniffing & working for food
Degus are active, curious and love to “work” for their food. That’s exactly where herbs shine. This is how we often use herbs in a degu setup:
- Scatter feeding: sprinkle a small amount through the hay area or across several spots (instead of one bowl).
- Hide them in enrichment: tuck herbs into a snack ball or food puzzle, or hide them under a layer of hay.
- Pair with chew items: create a safe “chew corner” and occasionally add leaves/flowers for extra interest.
Helpful routes: degu pellets (herb & veggie pellets), chew items for degus and degu information.
Want to set up the enclosure efficiently from the start? See basic degu setup (checklist & shop list).
Checklist
- Hay is always the base (unlimited) + measured degu food.
- Choose herbs/forage without added sugar, syrups or candied ingredients.
- Start small and rotate: variety over volume.
- Make it fun: scatter or hide herbs using foraging enrichment.
- Combine with a clean hay area and a good hay rack for structure.
FAQ
Which herbs are suitable for degus?
Think forage-style options like leaves, flowers and stems. You’ll find a wide selection under degu herbs and fresh degu herbs.
How much herb mix can a degu have per day?
Keep it as a small add-on: start with a small pinch or teaspoon for a group and adjust. Little and often works better than a big portion.
Are fresh herbs better than dried herbs?
Fresh herbs can be extra appealing and add moisture; dried herbs are practical and long-lasting. Both can work as long as the basics (hay + degu food) are solid.
Can degus have “fruity” snacks or dried fruit?
Degus usually benefit from low-sugar choices. Prefer leaves/flowers/hay variation and keep sweet mixes minimal—or skip them.
My degu won’t eat herbs—what can I do?
Start with mild leaves and mix a tiny amount into hay. Scatter feeding helps: they often “taste as they search”.
Can I feed herbs from my garden?
Only if you’re 100% sure it’s pesticide-free and you can identify the plant correctly. If in doubt, choose controlled (dried or fresh) herbs from the shop.
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