Introduction of new Sibling?

[stevenfox025]

Hi All,

I had two Female Degus, but unfortunately one of them passed away about 2 weeks ago during the night.

My remaining Daughter is quite unsettled even with a clean out and change of toys as suggested. She doesn't really want to play as much and is showing a few of the signs of depression.

Where I live, the Selling of Degus in our chain stores stopped about 6 months before I had my two girls adopted from Rspca.

In my wider area, there are a few for adoption, but they are all in groups of 2-4 Degus.

I have read up on the separation technique and know about how to go about it, but do we think introducing a new pair/group would be too stressful for her. Just trying to think as singular Degus are very hard to find where I live unless they are unethically bred which I do not want to support.

I believe she would love a new sister but also I'm very cautious about causing stress for her.

I am planning to leave it a couple more weeks to even start the process but just thinking ahead.

Thanks all

[bouncy]

Whereabouts in the country are you?

[moletteuk]

It's definitely worth trying to find her some new friends. It's probably best to get another two unless you can find another single that is already single. If she is over 18 months old it is probably best to look for new degus also over 18 months if you can and then in theory the hormones won't be rioting so much.
It's worth checking various second hand sites and facebook groups, there is a specific degu rehoming group on facebook, or there may be less well known small animal rescues in your area if you have a search around.