Degus hail from the Mediterranean-like shrubland of west-central Chile. While these cute, brown critters are often considered as pests by others, we better understand how they can be incredible pets! Degus enjoy being tickled, and they display their affection towards their owners with their own eccentric ways. (These include nibbling your hair or fingers gently!) That is why these beautiful critters deserve the best degu cage.
So, how do you choose the perfect degu housing? Finding the right cage is the first step in creating the ideal environment for the newest addition to your family. Read on and discover which unit suits your preferences.
8 Best Cages for Degus Reviewed
1. Midwest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Deluxe
The Critter Nation Deluxe Two-Story Cage is a cult favorite among seasoned rodent enthusiasts. This coop comes from a reputable brand and bears a 1-year warranty to boot.
Also known as Critter Nation 162, it is the best degu cage in this list in terms of durability and style. This pen consists of square-tubing and metal wiring with a glossy gray-quartz Hammertone finish. If you are looking for a degu cage that can outlast your pets, this is the way to go!
Moreover, this sharp-looking habitat measures 36 x 25 x 63 inches inclusive of its four-wheeled stand. Because of its generous space, it has plenty of room for customization. There also are three height adjustments for the ledges. Hence, you can attach hanging woodblocks, hammocks, cotton ropes, and other curiosities.
Another stand-out feature of the Critter Nation Deluxe Two-Story Cage is its full-width double doors. Hence, you can interact with your pets and clean corners with less difficulty. Furthermore, assembling the cage is an easy feat. I recommend you do it where you want your degu cage to be residing permanently. The enclosure weighs a whopping 109 pounds!
Also, the ramps of the cage have a wooly texture to provide traction and protection to your pets’ delicate feet. You can also divide the coop into two separate sections by merely closing the middle grate. Lastly, I want to point out the security offered by this unit. As expected of any Critter Nation product, it has a unique locking mechanism that no rodent can picklock.
pros
- Measures 36 x 25 x 63 inches
- Constructed using square-tubing and metal wiring
- The shelves have three height adjustments
- Features covered ramps and solid floors
- The gray-quartz Hammertone finish helps conceal scratches and prevents corrosion
- Has 1.2-cm bar spacing
- Features two full-width double doors with special locking mechanisms
- Comes with a storage shelf and a stand with lockable casters
- Highlights a stackable design
- Can be divided into two separate cages
cons
- All those features demand a high price
- A high-quality cage held back by a shallow bottom tray
2. Prevue Hendryx Black Feisty Ferret Cage
The Black Feisty Ferret Cage by Prevue Hendryx strikes a delicate balance between affordability, quality, and design. You will get many of the features found in the Critter Nation 162, but at a lower price. Technically though, this unit is built for ferrets and chinchillas, but degus are enthusiastic of multilevel cages as well.
This habitat measures 31 x 20 x 54 inches inclusive of the stand. While it isn’t as large as the Critter Nation 162, it is comfortable enough for two to three degus. Just like its expensive counterpart, it allows you to divide the cage into two separate enclosures should the need arise.
The Prevue Hendryx Black Feisty Ferret Cage is made of wrought iron with a powder-coat finish. The bars of the cage are 2.2 cm apart, which is narrow enough to prevent your cuties from escaping. But if your degu is expecting, it is wise to wrap the enclosure with wire mesh.
Regrettably, the floors of the cage are wire. This type of flooring increases the risk of your pets acquiring bumblefoot. The plastic ramps are also slippery. Thus, you have to cover the slopes with socks for traction and fasten them with zip ties for added stability.
Although the doors don’t open all the way, they don’t pose restrictions when you clean and make adjustments inside. Each set of doors has a reliable locking system, too.
pros
- Measures 31 x 20 x 54 inches
- Constructed using wrought iron
- The shelves have three height adjustments
- The powder-coating helps prevent corrosion
- Has a 1.2-cm bar spacing
- Comes with a storage shelf and a stand with casters
- Can be divided into two separate cages
- Comes with a free hammock
cons
- The ramps don’t have covers for traction
- Wired flooring
3. Prevue Rat and Chinchilla Cage
The Prevue Rat and Chinchilla Cage, also known as Earthtone Dusted Rose 495, makes a beautiful and comfortable cage for degus. There are no plastic components except for the easy-pull waste tray underneath the enclosure. Also, the ramps are wide and ridged to help tiny feet gain sure footing.
Moreover, this coop measures 31 x 20.5 x 40 inches; thus, it should accommodate two degus and some toys. The spacing between the metal wires is 0.9 cm, which is tight enough that even baby degus can’t squeeze through.
The cage emits an unpleasant factory smell after unboxing. So, you need to air out the cage for a few hours before you put your pets in. Since the cage rattles a lot, I suggest placing it far from your room.
Unfortunately, the cage door is small, and hence, it makes daily cleanings toilsome. On the bright side, the cage has a stand with casters, so you could push it outside for proper deep cleanings.
pros
- Measures 31 x 20.5 x 40 inches
- All components are metal except for the waste tray
- The ramps are wide and ridged
- Has a 0.9-cm bar spacing
- Comes with a stand with lockable casters
- The door has a wind-bell type lock
- Features a beautiful bronze finish
cons
- The small door makes it difficult to clean
- Outgasses after unboxing
- Rattles a lot
4. Mcage 3-Level Degu Cage
As the name suggests, this cage has three elevated platforms, including the 0.5-inch grate floor. Each level uses the same thin, flimsy metal as the rest of the unit. But the manufacturer claims their product is chew-proof. After all, the cage is all-metal with a pet-friendly epoxy coat to give it sheen and modest protection against rust.
This pen should house two degus comfortably, as it measures 30 x 18 x 24 inches. Since the height between each level isn’t particularly high, you can take out the ramps to have more space for toys.
Moreover, the spacing between the wires is 0.9 cm, which is narrow enough to prevent them from becoming your dog’s chew toy. While this enclosure doesn’t come with a stand, it is an advantage for those who prefer to place it on a table or bookcase rather than rearranging an entire room.
The Mcage 3-Level Degu Cage needs some elbow grease to show its full potential, but you will enjoy big savings in return.
pros
- Measures 30 x 18 x 24 inches
- Chew-proof, all-metal cage
- Has an epoxy coat for sheen and rust-protection
- Has 0.9-cm wire spacing
- Has three elevated platforms
- Comes with a pull-out waste tray and carry handles
- Foldable and easy to set up
- An affordable option
- Available in black and white
cons
- Uses poor-quality metal
- Wired ramps and flooring
- The doors are small and constricting
5. AmazonBasics Small Metal Pet Cage
The AmazonBasics Small Animal Metal Pet Cage looks a lot like the Critter Nation 162, but it is not quite as dense and durable as the latter.
Anyway, this two-story enclosure measures 36 x 63.4 x 23.2 inches and weighs 85.1 pounds. It is all-metal, and its horizontal bars are only 1.2 cm apart, making it degu-proof. The entire cage is coated; hence, there are no rough corners that could harm you or your pets.
What I appreciate the most about this cage is its full-width double doors, which is a godsend during cleaning. The doors each have a spring lock, and they open/close without any issue.
Additionally, this cage features three lofted platforms connected by wide, ridged ramps. If your pets do not get along, you can close the middle grate to create a division. I also like that the cage has four locking wheel casters and a storage compartment.
The only issue about this habitat is the shallow pans. The walls aren’t high enough to keep shavings from falling out.
pros
- Measures 36 x 63.4 x 23.2 inches
- Has no plastic components
- Features three lofted platforms
- Wide, ridged ramps
- Has 1.2-cm bar spacing
- Features two full-width double doors with spring locks
- Comes with a storage shelf and a stand with lockable casters
- Can be divided into two separate cages
cons
- May share similar features with the Critter Nation cage, but not as durable
6. Yaheetech 37/52-inch Metal Cage
This cage by Yaheetech is also a good option for your degus since it is all-metal. It comes with five platforms, five ramps, and an easy-to-pull waste tray. There is also an 8.5 oz water bottle and food container included in the package.
The cage measures 25.2 x 16.9 x 51.6 inches. With a total of six levels to explore, this cage will serve as a hive of activity for the most energetic degus. The ramps aren’t steep but feature a convex shape and a ribbed pattern to help your cuties gain footing.
I don’t like the sizes of the three doors, as it will make cleaning an everyday struggle. But at least the cage has a stand with casters, so you can push it to your backyard for deep cleanings on weekends. The doors also have latches to keep your pets securely confined during your absence.
Anyway, this unit also has a shorter model, which measures 37 inches in height. We recommend you aim for the 52-inch model if your budget allows it. Besides, the larger cage is easier to put up.
pros
- Has solid floors, not wire
- Features convex, ribbed ramps
- Comes with a free water bottle and a food container
- 360-degree swivel casters
- Easy assembly
- Non-toxic Hammertone finish for rust resistance
cons
- The cage rattles a lot
- The durability of the ledges and ramps need improvement
7. Kaytee My First Home Multi-Level Habitat
The Kaytee My First Home Multi-Level Habitat is a far cry from what you can expect from its expensive counterparts. But if you are looking for affordable and temporary accommodation for your critters, this cage will serve its purpose.
This pen measures 30.5 x 8.5 x 18.5 inches. Although the product dimensions aren’t ideal for permanent housing, it is adequate enough for confining your pets as you clean their original cage. Besides, the enclosure has multiple levels that are connected by wide, textured ramps.
The deep, apple green base is also another distinctive feature of the Kaytee My First Home. If you have baby degus, perhaps they won’t easily chew through the plastic. These critters are tenacious chewers, so you should keep an eye out if you are to contain a full-grown degu.
pros
- The plastic ramps are wide and textured
- Horizontal bars with 0.6-cm spacing
- Provides affordable, temporary solutions
cons
- Not durable enough for long-time use
8. Ware Chew Proof Four-Story Cage
If you are looking for a cage that would reasonably fit a shoestring budget, the Ware Chew Proof Four-Story Cage is perhaps the one you are looking for. This cage features a white powder-coated wire framework and a purple metal drop pan. The enclosure measures 12.8 x 17 x 24 inches and weighs only 6.5 pounds. The cage isn’t so big that it takes up a lot of space on your countertop, but it is indeed large compared to other models within its price range. You can fit a hammock and some toys inside as well.
Additionally, the cage is easy to set up. The pieces go together quickly, and the bottom pan secures snugly with the provided hooks. I appreciate that the pen has two doors, as these make cleaning, playing, and feeding a lot easier. You won’t have to lure your degus out! But I advise you to get zip ties to ensure the doors will not open unexpectedly. The cage is quick to take down as well, thanks to how its hooks are arranged.
Overall, the Ware Chew Proof Four-Story Cage is nice and sturdy. My only gripe is that the pan isn’t deep enough. Frolicking pets could easily kick almost all of the bedding out, requiring regular vacuuming.
pros
- All-metal and powder-coated
- Easily attaches and detaches for faster cleanup
- No-tool assembly
cons
- The doors aren’t very secure
- Shallow pan
- Comfortable only for one degu
Portable Degu Cage Recommendation
Kaytee Take Me Travel Carrier
Are you planning to take your little degu to a vet or on a short road trip? The Kaytee Take Me Travel Carrier would be an excellent choice to transport your pet safely. The carrier comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The medium size measures 7.87 x 12.37 x 7 inches, and it includes an optional perch, which you can set aside for an avian friend.
This enclosure comes with a handle, so you can pick up the carrier with ease. Its bottom base is made of stain-resistant plastic; hence, you can wipe it down for spot-cleaning. Just be sure to keep an eye on your degu from time to time, especially if he is an aggressive chewer.
If you worry that the carrier is too confining, don’t. The smaller the carrier, the less damage can be done in the event of an accident. You don’t want your degu getting thrown around inside a large cage.
pros
- Multifunctional — suitable for most critters
- Designed with a carry handle and large door
- The durable base is stain-resistant and washable
- Comes with a free perch for birds
cons
- The plastic perch isn’t that durable
Degu Cage Buying Guide: Factors to Consider
Choosing the best degu cage isn’t just about finding a pretty one that will complement your décor. The enclosure has to be cozy and safe for your pets, as well. Besides, there are many other things to consider, ranging from the size of the cage to the materials used.
Materials
The best cage for degus is made with metal with bars no more than two centimeters apart. Degus’ teeth are growing continuously. Therefore, it is crucial to source a habitat made of wire, as they can chew their way out of wood and plastic.
Also, you want to make sure that the metal used isn’t prone to rust, particularly since you need to clean the enclosure with water and soap regularly.
Type
Where are you planning to place your degu’s habitat? This decision will determine the type you should be looking for in a cage. A standalone pen is preferable if you have a large area to work with, while a tabletop cage is recommended if you don’t want to rearrange an entire room.
Size
According to PetMD, a minimum of 24 x 18 x 24 inches should accommodate a pair of degus comfortably. If you can get anything larger, it’s even better.
Degus are playful and full of energy, so you can guarantee that your pets will want to have a large habitat filled with many toys. But if your degu is old and less active, you can get away with using a small cage, such as a hamster cage.
Tip:
Think about whether you intend to get more degus in the future. If you are adopting degus for the first time, get a pair or more. Degus thrive in a group, but introducing a new member is not always a successful process.
Multiple Levels
Having multiple levels gives your critters more opportunities for exercise and playtime. Multi-level cages designed for ferrets and chinchillas are usually excellent for degus. Degus love to jump and run around, so you should allow them to express these instinctual needs. Since degus also love to chill out in peace, they will enjoy creating shanty huts under the shelves.
Solid Floors
The platforms, perches, and ramps should be solid metal, not wire. Your pets may develop bumblefoot if their tiny feet are always pressed against the wired floor. However, don’t be discouraged if the cage comes with a shallow plastic pan or wire shelves. These accessories can be replaced inexpensively.
Easy to Clean
Degus aren’t stinky animals, although they can be messy. Their poop is firm and nearly odorless, but their cage will reek of urine if you allow it to accumulate and calcify. Therefore, you need to clean your pet’s’ habitat at least once a week. A big standalone cage should have a stand with pivoting wheels for convenient transport. If the enclosure doesn’t have a deep base, you will be spending a lot of time vacuuming poop and wood shavings that will fly out when your pet plays.