>In searching for info on the net, I have found somewhat conflicting info on
>what to feed them. From my last post, even the people that responded to me
>fed them different things. Also, I'm reading and "hearing" more and more
>that they are more like rats in terms of personality ... and thus, I'd
>assume, need for attention.
>
>So, I've got several more questions.
>
>1) How much attention (handing, letting them run about, etc) do they need?
>Do they need daily interaction, or are they ok with lets say every few
>days?
>
>2) I've read from different sources (email, on the net) about feeding.
>Some
>recommend guinea pig pellets, some recommend 50% GP pellets and 50%
>chinchilla pellets, and some same lab blocks is ok as well as GP pellets
>and/or chinchilla pellets. Most sites say to give some sort of hay. Which
>combination is best for long-term health? What hay is better - alfalfa or
>timothy or both?
>
>3) Sociability - I've read a couple of sites that males can be territorial
>and tend to fight. Other sources say male pairs are just as social as
>female
>pairs. Any comments on this would be welcome.
>
>4) Caging/housing - What would be the minimum size of cage/aquarium for a
>pet
>pair? From all I'm reading the suggestions are 30 gallons or above - the
>cages I've got right now are about 13" x 24". One's a wire cage (solid
>floor), and one's plastic (but no edges at all for toothholds - wonder how
>long it would stand up to degus?), and then a 20H aquarium. Which all
>might
>be adequate for a few weeks ... but what about permanent housing? None can
>accomodate a large wheel, except maybe the aquarium. If I were to get a
>multi-level cage, how big should it be and what would be the best materials
>to cover any wire levels and ramps?
>
>Thanks for any and all advice on this.
>
>Emily
1. they need as much attention as you can give them, at least once or twice
a day. the more you give, the more you get!
2. Personally, i think 1/2 guinea pig and 1/2 chinchilla food is best.
3. males appear to get on as well as females. just never keep them alone.
4. the biggest possible! and lots of toys and running around space.
hth
Ally
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