If you have recently acquired a chinchilla, you probably want to know as much about them as possible, so you can care for them properly.
Some of the basic care facts about chinchillas, are as follows: 1.
Chinchillas need a home with lots of space, both vertically and horizontally for climbing and jumping.
They need shelves and ledges built so they can explore when they are active.
They are nocturnal, so they are most active during the night hours.
2.
Chinchillas clean themselves with a special dust they roll in.
This can be purchased at a pet store, and needs to be in a container that is big enough for the chinchilla, and is closed part of the way, so that the dust does not make a huge mess everywhere.
They need to be able to take a dust bath every couple of days, and more often if the humidity is high.
You can never have a chinchilla is hot temperatures, as they can overheat and die quickly.
They need to be in a room that is about 72 degrees.
3.
Chinchillas need lots of exercise, so be sure you let them out of their cage once a day.
Be sure to watch them closely, since they love to chew on electrical wires! They should never be allowed to roam without supervision.
4.
You have to be gentle with chinchillas, and give them a chance to trust you before you try to pick them up.
Never scare them, or chase them, as this is a recipe for distrust.
It may take a while before they really warm up to you, but when they do, they are very affectionate and loving animals.
5.
You will notice that your chinchilla makes varied noises.
They sound much like a guinea pig, and the sounds are used as a way for them to communicate.
As you get to know your chinchilla, you will start to better understand what the different noises mean.
6.
Chinchillas are very delicate, so small children should not try to hold a chinchilla without supervision.
They may accidentally break their bones when they squeeze too hard.
7.
You also need to be sure that you have the proper bedding for your animal.
Just be sure that it is not cedar, as this is harmful to their respiratory systems.
Always keep their cage clean, and give them a water bottle that is made of glass, so they cannot chew it up.
In addition, they should not have toys that are made of plastic, as they could chew on them and choke.
8.
The feeding dish you use should be of a heavy weight material that cannot be tipped over easily.
You can also use a food hopper, as this keeps the food fresh, and you will not have to worry about it becoming spoiled.
Caring for your chinchilla is not difficult, and with the proper care and attention, your chinchilla could live as long as 20 years.
If you give them what they need and desire, you can have a very long and loving relationship with your pet.