Chinchilla Care Sheet

Origin:

Chinchillas originate from the Andes Mountains of South America, where they live in cool, dry, rocky environments. They are adapted to high altitudes and low humidity, which is important to replicate in captivity.

Description:

Chinchillas are small rodents known for their exceptionally soft, dense fur. Adults weigh between 1–1.5 pounds and measure about 10–14 inches long, not including their bushy tails. They are agile jumpers, clean, and have a lifespan of 10–15 years or more in captivity.

Temperament:

Chinchillas are intelligent, curious, and generally gentle animals. They can be shy at first but become affectionate with regular handling. They are nocturnal or crepuscular (most active in the evening and early morning) and prefer calm, consistent environments.

Feeding:

• Staple diet: High-quality chinchilla pellets or timothy-based rabbit pellets.
• Hay: Unlimited timothy or orchard grass hay to aid digestion and dental health.
• Treats: Small amounts of dried rose hips, oats, or plain shredded wheat (use sparingly).
• Water: Fresh, clean water available at all times in a bottle or heavy dish.

Avoid fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, or seeds—these can upset their sensitive digestive systems.

Housing:

• Cage type: A tall, multi-level wire cage with solid platforms and ramps.
• Size: Minimum 24"x24"x36" for one or two chinchillas—bigger is always better.
• Bedding: Paper-based bedding or aspen shavings. Avoid cedar and pine shavings.
• Temperature: Keep between 60–70°F. Chinchillas overheat easily; avoid humidity and temperatures above 75°F.
• Accessories: Provide chew toys, hiding boxes, and exercise wheels with solid running surfaces.
• Cleaning: Spot clean daily and replace bedding weekly.

Companionship:

Chinchillas are social animals and often do best in same-sex pairs if introduced properly. However, some individuals prefer living alone. Always monitor for signs of fighting or dominance issues.

Handling:

Handle chinchillas gently and support their body at all times. Never grab by the tail or fur. Allow them to climb onto your hands and arms, and handle them regularly in a quiet, secure space to build trust.

Health:

Common health issues include:

• Overgrown teeth from insufficient chewing materials
• Digestive upset from improper diet
• Heat stress from high temperatures
• Fur slip (patches of fur shed due to stress or rough handling)

Signs of illness: Lethargy, drooling, lack of appetite, diarrhea, or overgrown teeth. Consult an exotic pet veterinarian if symptoms appear.

Grooming:

Chinchillas do not bathe in water. Instead, they require a dust bath several times a week using special chinchilla dust to keep their fur clean and healthy. Replace the dust regularly and never allow moisture on their fur.

Fun Facts:

• Chinchillas have over 50 hairs per follicle—humans have only one!
• They can jump up to six feet in a single leap.
• Their thick fur makes them resistant to parasites.
• Chinchillas cannot sweat, so they rely on their environment to regulate temperature.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.
1711 Connorvale Rd., Houston, TX 77039
(281) 590-0426
www.sandsexoticanimals.com