False caudal autotomy or tail loss / fur slip in degus (broken/dropped tail)

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The degu has the ability to lose its tail sometimes partially when it gets caught, whether by a predator or by accident⁰¹. This ability is called false caudal autotomy and occurs when the tail is held or pulled inappropriately. Unlike other animals such as lizards, the tail cannot regenerate in degus. Therefore, it is essential never to grab a degu by its tail.

Only a veterinarian knowledgeable about the degu can make a diagnosis and propose suitable treatments. Be cautious not to self-diagnose your animals, as this may lead to a worsening of their health.

Causes

Tail loss in the degu can be caused by several traumatic factors⁰². In the wild, this sometimes allows them to escape from a predator, leaving only the tip of the tail in its claws. In captivity, it is more likely that tail loss is related to improper handling, such as grabbing and carrying the degu by its tail. Finally, the degu may get its tail caught in a cage element, such as in an incomplete wheel. Therefore, it is necessary to know how to properly catch or handle your degu.

How to tame a degu?

Treatment

It is necessary to properly disinfect the tip of the tail as soon as possible⁰³. It is possible that vertebrae remain exposed; this is normal, and the bones should be left alone—only a veterinarian is qualified to perform an amputation. Moreover, bleeding should stop quickly as the tissues naturally constrict.

The wound caused may require amputation to remove the remaining bones or to prevent tissue necrosis. Treatment primarily depends on veterinarians, but the degu may be put on antibiotics if necessary.

Managing tail loss

Tail loss may cause a slight loss of balance in the first few days. However, degus usually adapt very quickly, and modifications are not necessarily required if you see that the degu is able to jump properly. Even in the case of total amputation, the degu can readjust, and this will not handicap it in its daily life.

Conclusion

It is important to consult a veterinarian quickly to avoid infection or tissue necrosis. Remember to disinfect promptly and, if necessary, remove the sandbath for a few days.

Sources

1. Diseases in pet degus: A retrospective study in 300 animals[↩]
2. Nutrition and behavior of degus (Octodon degus)[↩]
3. Handbook of exotic pet medicine[↩]