Facts on Chinchilla Care

Appearance

• Choosing a pet chinchilla takes consideration, and it should be acquired from a licensed, reputable breeder. The average life-span of this rodent is 15 to18 years. Chinchillas are large compared with other rodents, and their body length can reach 10 inches (8 inches is the average). They have long, bushy tails that can add another 5 to 6 inches. Chinchillas have over-sized ears and huge eyes in proportion to their heads. They have very soft fur, usually white, but it can also be brown, cream or grayish-blue.

Behavior

• Before considering a chinchilla for a pet, it is best to understand their behavior and special needs. Chinchillas are nocturnal and are most active during the night. They can be skittish and are easily startled. Chinchillas will allow people to pick them up, but they prefer not to be held for long periods of time. They can jump very high, even up to six feet, so always cover the pen or cage where you keep them.

  Most chinchilla pet owners opt for a wire cage or wood-framed structure with small meshed aluminum screening. Chinchillas like to jump so the cage should have multi-level platforms. A small chinchilla hut should be added because these rodent pets like to have a place to hide.

Special Needs

• A chinchilla needs an especially large living area and should have plenty of daily exercise. A chinchilla's containment area should be at least 6 by 6 feet and 3 feet high. Cover the bottom with newspaper and common wood shavings, and with one chinchilla, the bedding should be changed weekly. Chinchillas like to chew and should be supplied with wooden blocks or toys. They need to clean themselves with a dust bath and cleaning dust can be purchased at a pet supply store.

  When handling a chinchilla fold its tail under the body allowing it to rest on your hand. Cross your arms, making a cradle and keep your it close to your body. They need to feel safe and secure when lifted off the ground. Never allow your chinchilla to be unsupervised around other pets, especially dogs.

Diet

• In the wild chinchillas are foragers and like to hunt for their food. A chinchilla should have 2 tbsp. of special chinchilla food twice daily. Hiding some dried fruit, such as raisins or apricots, around the cage a few times a week will help keep them mentally stimulated. Chinchillas should also receive a handful of hay every day to supplement their diet, and their water can be supplied from a rodent water bottle mounted outside of the cage.