Begin by deciding whether your degu needs to leave the enclosure. Cage-side contact can be the endpoint; a necessary transfer needs support and a planned return.
Begin at the enclosure
Degus usually prefer petting or treats in their cage to being picked up. Let the interaction stay there.
Work quietly and gently, with an accessible hiding place. Leave room for withdrawal rather than pursuing contact. Never shout or punish.
Check the enclosure and its contents for damage that could cause injury or escape. Prepare the return area before lifting.
Choose a supported transfer
For a lift, follow PDSA's degu handling method: one hand around the chest, the other supporting the hind legs. Hold the degu close to your body.
PDSA also describes letting a degu enter a tube, then positioning it near your hands or arm so they can walk out voluntarily.
Keep handling near the ground, away from shelves or furniture they might jump towards. Never pull or lift a degu by the tail.
Return and reassess
Maintain chest and rear support while lowering to the prepared area. If this is difficult, ask your vet to demonstrate.
If the degu withdraws, end the attempt. You can leave contact at cage level; there is no requirement to achieve longer holding.
Ask your vet or a clinical animal behaviourist about changed behaviour or repeated fear or stress. These observations need assessment, rather than a stronger grip.
