What should you do if a degus has fleas? - briefly
Treat the degus with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication and thoroughly clean its enclosure, bedding, and accessories using hot water and a safe insecticide. Monitor the animal for irritation and repeat treatment according to the veterinarian’s instructions to prevent reinfestation.
What should you do if a degus has fleas? - in detail
If a degus becomes infested with fleas, immediate action is required to protect the animal’s health and prevent spread to other pets.
First, isolate the affected individual. Place the degus in a clean cage with fresh bedding that can be discarded after treatment. Remove all accessories—water bottles, food dishes, toys—and wash them in hot, soapy water followed by a disinfectant rinse.
Next, administer an appropriate flea control product. Choose a medication specifically labeled for small rodents; many canine or feline treatments are toxic to degus. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely, applying the product to the fur or skin as directed. If a topical solution is used, ensure it reaches the base of the neck and along the spine where fleas commonly reside.
After treatment, clean the environment thoroughly:
- Remove all bedding, discard it, and replace with fresh, untreated material.
- Vacuum the cage, surrounding area, and any nearby carpets or furnishings. Empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately into a sealed bag.
- Wash the cage interior with a mild detergent, rinse, and sanitize with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 30 parts water). Rinse again and allow to dry completely before returning the degus.
Monitor the animal for signs of irritation, excessive scratching, or lethargy. If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, consult a veterinarian experienced with exotic rodents. The vet may prescribe oral or injectable flea medication, or recommend a short course of antihistamines to alleviate allergic reactions.
Prevent future infestations by implementing these routine measures:
- Keep the habitat away from outdoor environments where fleas are common.
- Maintain regular cleaning schedules: replace bedding weekly, vacuum surrounding areas twice a week.
- Inspect other pets in the household for fleas and treat them concurrently if necessary.
- Use a flea‑preventive product approved for small rodents, applied according to the label’s interval.
Prompt, thorough treatment combined with diligent hygiene eliminates the parasite and safeguards the degus’s wellbeing.