Chinchilla Ear Problems

Chinchillas are active rodents whose soft fur and large, upright ears make them appealing pets. Those unique ears, however, are delicate and prone to injuries and infections.

  1. Causes

    • Chinchillas can suffer ear injuries in fights with other animals. Their wounds also might be self-inflicted or result from exposure to extreme temperatures.

    Injury Symptoms

    • Suspect an injury if your chinchilla's ears are red or swollen, bleeding or oozing fluid. Look for cuts or bite marks.

    Temperature Exposure

    • Extreme heat or cold can harm chinchillas' ears. You might notice dead, blackened or sloughing skin or a line on the ear separating damaged and undamaged tissue.

    Infection Symptoms

    • Wax or fluid buildup in the ears and fluid drainage are signs of an ear infection. Your chinchilla also might scratch its ear, walk in circles or tip its head to one side.

    Treatment

    • If you suspect an ear injury or infection, consult your veterinarian. She can prescribe antibiotic or antiseptic ointments. For serious injuries, your vet might have to remove the damaged tissue surgically.

    Warning

    • A chinchilla with very red or warm ears might have a fever. That condition can lead to pneumonia.