CARING FOR CHINCHILLAS
Everything you need to know to look after a pet chinchillaLooking to adopt a small animal but don't want to go down the conventional route? A chinchilla is a wonderful option for quiet households that are willing to take on a long-term commitment.
Choosing a chinchilla
Teeth
As with all rodents, chinchillas’ teeth grow constantly – it’s important to provide hay and wooden toys or mineral stones for gnawing on. Cuttlebone is also great for chinchillas to gnaw on, and provides calcium too.
Fur slip
Chinchillas should be handled calmly and gently to minimise stress. A protective reaction in chinchillas, known as fur slip, may occur if the animal is frightened, resulting in the release of a large patch of fur and revealing smooth, clean skin underneath. It may also occur with improper handling, fighting, or anything that causes over excitement. Chinchilla fur can take several months to regrow and may be a different shade to what it was before. To prevent this, chinchillas should be handled gently and with the least amount of stress, by moving slowly and speaking softly.
Coat
Chinchillas like to keep their soft fur clean and enjoy a dust bath. It may seem unusual but bathing in special chinchilla dust is a vital part of their grooming routine. Place a chinchilla bath filled with dust into their cage and leave it in there for about five minutes at a time. Your animals should bathe several times a week to keep their coat shiny and clean. Take care not to leave the bath in the chinchilla cage for long periods of time, as they may use it as a toilet instead.
Temperature
Chinchillas are prone to heat stroke at temperatures greater than 80°F (27°C). The chinchilla's preferred indoor temperature range is 50–60°F (10–16°C). Their housing environment should be dry, free of drafts, moderately cool, and away from direct sun.
Vitamins and supplements
Vitamins can be added to your pets’ food or water. Probiotic supplements can help to maintain healthy digestion and relieve stress. Getting used to their new surroundings can be stressful for your chinchillas, so consider buying probiotic supplements before you take them home. Speak to your vet about which products are appropriate for your chinchilla.
Our articles are not a replacement for face-to-face vet advice. It’s important to consult with your vet on a regular basis to raise any pet concerns that you may have.
