Chinchillas, like all other pets, have unique needs, personalities, and qualities. There’s a lot to adore about these charming little critters. They are really cute, playful, and friendly. They’re also quiet, inexpensive to feed, and don’t require much space. A local Lexington, KY veterinarian explains how to care for these little fellows below.

Is a Chinchilla Easy to Care For?

Chinchillas are relatively low-maintenance. They do not require an excessive amount of attention, but must have appropriate care.

As with many pocket pets, you’ll just have a few daily responsibilities, such as giving them fresh food and water and removing waste. However, there are certain do’s and don’ts with these people.

What Chinchilla Care Mistakes Should I Avoid? 

When it comes to chinchilla care, there are a few things you should never do. Some of these apply to all animals, while others are more particular.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Chinchillas?

Chins are adorable and fun pets, but there are a few drawbacks. They can be fairly shy and are not the most outgoing of our animal pals. They are also very delicate. You must also take care to maintain proper conditions  in your pet’s room.

Don’t Keep Only One Chinchilla

Chinchillas are quite friendly, and are not well adapted to living alone. Your pet will be a lot happier with housemates. Of course, combining a male and female chinchilla will most likely result in more furballs than you bargained for. Putting multiple males in the same habitat is also a recipe for disaster, as your pets may fight. Put females and/or neutered males together.

What Types of Toys Do Chinchillas Need?

Like many pocket pets, Chinchillas have open-rooted teeth that never stop growing. You’ll need to supply plenty of entertaining toys.

Chinchillas enjoy climbing, therefore branches are virtually always appreciated. Just be sure you use safe woods such as pear, apple, hazelnut, or willow. Do not give your chinny pine or cedar, since the oils are hazardous to little animals.

Here are some additional options:

• Tunnels
• Cardboard Toys
• Wooden blocks
• Ladders
• Toilet Paper Tubes

What Kind of Cage Do Chinchillas Need?

While there are many ways to modify a chinchilla cage, there are a few basic principles to follow.

Here are some tips:

• Chinchillas are excellent climbers, so choose a cage that has more vertical than horizontal room.
• The cage’s bottom should be firm. Wire flooring will not hold substrate. Furthermore, they can cause harm to the tiny legs and feet.
• Make sure the cage bars are half an inch or less apart.
• You can use aspen as a substrate. Avoid pine and cedar substrates since they are hazardous to small animals.
•  You will also need to provide a hiding place for your pet. Make sure to include good hides.
• You’ll need to add dishes and a water bottle. We would recommend obtaining a glass bottle rather than a plastic bottle, in case your pet tries to chew it.

Ask your Lexington, KY vet for more information.

Where Do I Place My Chinchilla Cage?

This is more crucial than you realize. Chinchillas are quite cautious and may become alarmed if exposed to excessive noise or activity. A peaceful part of the room is great. However, you do not want to completely isolate your dogs; they should be able to see and hear you.

You will also have to consider the temperature. Chinchillas can easily overheat and are in danger when temperatures rise above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Your pet should be kept in a room with a constant temperature of roughly 68°F.

Humidity is another element to consider. Chinchillas are prone to fungal infections in moist situations. If the humidity is too high, you may require a dehumidifier.

What Should I Feed My Chinchilla?

The majority of your pet’s diet, or the largest component of the chinchilla food pyramid, should consist of fresh grass hay, such as Timothy hay. These guys can also eat commercial food, like pellets, for breakfast and dinner.

Your veterinarian may also recommend giving your pets a cuttlebone to gnaw on. They may also recommend supplements like vitamin C. Naturally, fresh water is necessary.

It’s also crucial to understand what’s not safe. The list includes asparagus, avocados, peas, broccoli, cabbage, corn, lettuce, spinach, rhubarb and rhubarb leaves, bananas, citrus fruits, and a variety of nuts and seeds. Ask your vet for more info.

What Types of Treats Can I Give A Guinea Pig?

Chinchillas, like every other pet, enjoy goodies! There is nothing wrong with providing something special. Just stay with what you know is safe.

Here’s some suggestions:

• Dried Fruit
• Dandelion Leaves
• Hibiscus
• Dried Rose Hips
• Certain herbs
• Berry Leaves

Ask your veterinarian for more information, like serving sizes, other snack choices, and unsafe foods.

What Is A Chinchilla’s Temperament?

These adorable tiny critters prefer to interact with other chinchillas rather than humans. You can probably expect them to be shy. Proper socialization is extremely beneficial here. Offering treats gently, allowing your pets to sniff you, patting them carefully, and talking to them can all help chins feel more relaxed and comfortable. Don’t force things!

What Are Some Common Illnesses In Chinchillas?

Chinchillas, like any other pet, are prone to developing certain conditions. They frequently experience gastrointestinal difficulties, and can also get dental problems. Other typical problems include heat stroke, respiratory tract infections, fur troubles, ringworm, bloating, parasites, bone fractures, reproductive issues, cardiovascular disease, fungal infections, infectious diseases, and more. Keep an eye out for warning signs that anything is wrong.

Here are some of the main ones:

• Dull or Unkempt Coat
• Changes in Droppings
• Feces in fur
• Drooling
• Respiratory issues
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Discharge from eyes
• Skin issues (crusting, scaling, redness, and itching).
• Gastrointestinal Issues
• Diarrhea
• Weight Loss
• Depression 
• Fur Slip
• Constipation
• Bloating 

How Do You Groom Your Chinchilla?

Chinchillas have soft, distinctive fur that helps them stay warm in inclement weather of their native habitat, the dry, arid Andes Mountains. Their water isn’t really suitable for getting wet. They clean themselves using dust, which absorbs the oils and grime in the fur. You will need to give your pet dust baths. Otherwise, their fur can become sticky and matted.

What Should I Bathe My Chinchillas In?

You can get ceramic or plastic containers for this, or use a bowl or dish of the appropriate form and size. It should be large enough to accommodate your pet and their dust, but not too big. It’s best to purchase something self-contained since otherwise dust would get everywhere.

What Kind Of Dust Do I Get For My Chinchillas?

You will need chinchilla dust. This is a specific sort of dust that contains or resembles volcanic dust, which wild chinchillas use. Many pet stores stock it, but you can also get it online. Do not use sand or any other products unless you consult with your Lexington, KY veterinarian.

How Often Should I Bathe A Chinchilla?

Your chinchilla will generally only require five or ten minutes to bathe. Most chins benefit from roughly two baths per week. Place the bathhouse away between uses, as your pet may attempt to use it as a litter box.

Book An Appointment At Our Lexington, Ky Pet Hospital.

Do you have any queries about chinchilla care? Please contact us at any time. As your local Lexington, KY pet hospital, we are here to assist!