Snowball is definitely showing her old now

[degulover21]

Snowball turned 7 this year she is showing her age well, I’m having a hard time keeping her weight on. She 205g and so sleepy most of the time, this morning she was very sleepy so I’ve book her in for a check up. Idk if this is normal for an older degu. Fudge is still soo active and she’s the same age

[savvy]

I think it varies from goo to goo. As with people, some age faster than others, but its good to get her vet checked just to make sure.

Keep us posted.

[degulover21]

Sorry for the late update she’s holding her weight , she’s eating and drinking etc, vet has put it down to old age, vet said she’s 80 odd in human years. She’s on painkiller now see if that helps. Just her weight I’m struggling with help her gain it, I’m giving her hazelnuts everyday with her meds. It’s like it’s impossible for her to put weight on, she used to be like 260/70g few years ago.

[savvy]

The painkillers should help. Will she take CC at all, or Recovery Plus? It may help her gain weight.

[teemu]

Does she eat everything she's given? If that's the case, then it seems like the way to increase energy intake needs to be more energy rich food, since the amount is not the problem. But of course, nuts are already really rich, so I'm unsure what would do more for her...

One problem I've found with degus who have trouble keeping weight is that trying to increase their energy intake with nuts and other extra treats often means they start skipping their normal feed, since they feel about as full as they care to feel already. Maybe there is some way to make her normal food seem more appetizing? Though this might not be the problem at all. How quickly does she go through her normal food?

[degulover21]

She’s having nuts everyday with her painkillers, I’m thinking she has maybe liver issues or kidney? I don’t get paid till Friday and I’ll get her some cc and try that it’s really stressing me out she’s now 197g

[moletteuk]

When my goos got a bit more frail and fussy with their eating, I got a bit more relaxed on what I would let them eat. I found this mix quite good for oldies www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/naturals-rosewood-naturals-herb-plus-small-animal-treat-500g It has some grains in it so not recommended for young, healthy goos except for a treat, but I think it might be helpful for Snowball if she likes this type of thing.