Chinchilla Care and Facts

Chinchillas are intelligent, active, and affectionate pets that thrive with proper housing, nutrition, and preventative veterinary care. Their unique dietary and environmental needs make correct husbandry essential for maintaining long-term health.

Chinchilla Facts

Native to the Andes Mountains of South America.
In the wild, they live in burrows and rocky crevices.
Intelligent, playful, and affectionate pets that often bond closely with their owners.
Average lifespan is up to 10 years, although some may live up to 20 years.
Their teeth grow continuously throughout life and require constant chewing of hay for proper wear.
Adult males typically weigh 400–500 grams.
Adult females typically weigh 400–600 grams.
When frightened, chinchillas may release large patches of fur, a natural defense mechanism known as a fur slip.

Housing

The larger the enclosure, the better.

Chinchillas require plenty of space for:

Jumping
Climbing
Playing
Exercising
Feeding stations
Hide boxes
Toys

A cage with multiple levels is recommended.

Use:

Solid-bottom cages
Wire sides for proper ventilation
Several inches of Carefresh® paper bedding

Because chinchilla urine contains high levels of ammonia, the enclosure should provide enough space for them to move away from soiled areas.

Dust Baths

Dust baths are essential for maintaining healthy skin and the chinchilla’s exceptionally soft coat.

Offer:

Commercial chinchilla dust
Volcanic dust

Dust baths should be provided:

Several times each week for 20–30 minutes.

Temperature

Maintain enclosure temperatures between:

65–80°F

The combined temperature and humidity should always remain below 150.

Never place the enclosure:

In direct sunlight
In drafty locations

Clean the enclosure thoroughly and replace bedding 1–2 times each week.

Avoid using:

Cedar shavings
Pine shavings

These aromatic woods contain natural resins that may irritate the skin and respiratory system.

Diet

Provide unlimited Timothy hay at all times.

Hay provides the long-stem fiber necessary for:

Healthy digestion
Proper intestinal function
Normal tooth wear

Pellets are not a natural part of the chinchilla diet.

If pellets are offered:

Choose Timothy-based pellets.
Limit to 1–2 tablespoons daily.

Do not feed:

Alfalfa hay
Alfalfa pellets

Alfalfa contains excessive calcium and fat, which may increase the risk of certain diseases.

Provide fresh, clean water every day using a water bottle with a sipper tube.

Avoid feeding:

Sweet treats
Fruit
Seeds

Even small amounts may contribute to obesity and digestive disorders.

Common Medical Problems

Obesity

Obesity is commonly associated with:

Improper diet
Lack of exercise

Proper nutrition and regular activity help reduce the risk.

Dental Disease

Dental disease may include:

Tooth overgrowth
Infection
Sharp tooth points

Common causes include:

Improper diet
Genetics
Trauma

Signs may include:

Reduced appetite
Drooling
Teeth grinding
Eye discharge
Nasal discharge

Unlimited Timothy hay helps maintain healthy teeth.

Gastrointestinal Stasis

Gastrointestinal stasis is a slowing of digestive movement through the stomach and intestines.

Signs include:

Reduced appetite
Decreased fecal production
Hunched posture
Enlarged abdomen
Lethargy

Prompt veterinary attention is recommended.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea may result from:

Bacterial infections
Fungal infections
Parasitic infections

Potential complications include:

Dehydration
Weight loss
Electrolyte imbalance

Heat Stroke

Chinchillas are extremely sensitive to overheating.