How to Get Rid of Fur Rot on a Chinchilla

Chinchillas are rodents that originated in South America. Considered to have the softest fur of any animal, the chinchilla was in demand for its fur, leading to its near extinction in the 19th century. They're now kept as exotic pets because of their social nature and soft, cuddly fur. However, their fur can be problematic, especially if they get wet. As their fur is so dense, it cannot air dry and it can become the perfect breeding ground for fungus, which may cause fur rot.

Things You'll Need

  • Anti-fungal treatment
  • Non-latex surgical gloves
  • Disinfectant
  • Wash cloths
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine your chinchilla for sore fur rot spots while wearing a pair of non-latex surgical gloves. Purchase an anti-fungal medicine from your vet, and apply it as directed on the label. Be sure to always wear gloves when treating your chinchilla, as fungus which causes fur rot can be spread to humans.

    • 2

      Do not reuse it's bathing dust during the chinchilla's treatment. Replace your chinchilla's bathing dust after every use, and if you have more than one chinchilla do not allow them to share the same dust. The fungus which causes fur rot is highly contagious, so your healthy chinchilla could be at risk if you allow them to share a dust bath.

    • 3

      Sterilize your chinchilla's cage every day during treatment to prevent the spread of fungus. To do this, first throw away all the litter from the base of the cage and remove any shelves, bedding, bowls or anything that can be taken out of your chinchilla's cage.

    • 4

      Spray anything you removed from the cage and wipe it with warm water, using a wash cloth and a pet-safe disinfectant. Use a bottle brush to clean the water bottle.

    • 5

      Spray the bottom of the cage and the wires with disinfectant and leave it to sit for 10 minutes; this will allow the disinfectant to work. Wipe the disinfectant with a dry cloth. Rinse the cage thoroughly with hot water. If you have a hose in your yard, take the cage outside and hose it down. Replace the litter and everything you removed earlier.