input: [1] Degu appears to be scratching self more than normal. May be (patchy) fur loss. Dry, flaky skin or areas of moist skin. Skin appears sore/red. [2] External parasites Allergy () Hormonal imbalance [3] Parasites- usually mites or fungal ringworm affecting the skin. Often contracted through direct contact with infected degu/cage or transmitted from hay. Dermatitis- caused by exposure to an allergen specific to the degu. Could be a wide variety of allergenic substances such as disinfectant, sawdust, or dietary component. Hormonal imbalance- triggered when the normal levels of hormones are upset, for a variety of reasons including depression, infertility, stress, etc. [4] Quarantine new degus before allowing contact. Treat hay that is brought from an open bale before feeding. Isolate infected degu. Determine source of allergen by process of elimination and remove from environment. Treat dry skin with mild moisturiser and moist skin with saline solution daily until healed. Avoid potential causes of hormone imbalance such as depression and stress. Supplement an itchy degu's diet omega 3 fatty acids, such as linolenic acid70 (ask your vet). [5] GOOD to REASONABLE [0] 
output: Skin