- Provide plenty of dust and chewing material. Chinchillas need to groom themselves regularly, and providing them with dust baths (a shallow dish of dust made of volcanic ash or another fine powder) will allow them to maintain healthy coats and reduce the urge to chew on their fur. As an alternative to a dust bath, placing wooden blocks, willow branches, or other safe chewing items in their cage can also help satisfy their need to chew and groom.
- Feed them appropriately. Make sure your chinchillas are getting enough food, and that their diet is nutritionally balanced. Chinchillas need a constant source of high-quality hay, fresh water, and commercial chinchilla pellets.
- Reduce stress. Stress can cause chinchillas to overgroom themselves and chew on their fur excessively. Ensure that your chinchillas are kept in a comfortable environment, with a moderate temperature, low humidity, and minimal disturbances.
- Keep the cage clean. A clean cage will help prevent skin irritation and allergies, both of which can contribute to over-grooming behavior. Change their bedding regularly and spot-clean their cage every few days.
- Separate the chinchillas. If your chinchillas are fighting and attacking each other, you may need to separate them and reintroduce them later when they have calmed down.
- Take your chinchilla to the vet. If you are concerned about your chinchilla's health or if the fur-chewing behavior persists despite trying these methods, consult a veterinarian.