this post was submitted on 25 Jul 2023
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Lifespan: Chinchillas have a long lifespan, and potential owners should be prepared for a commitment that could last 10 to 20 years.
Social creatures: Chinchillas are social animals and may benefit from having a same-sex companion to prevent loneliness and boredom.
Special diet: They require a specialized diet consisting of high-fiber hay, chinchilla pellets, and occasional treats. They should not be fed sugary or fatty foods.
Dust baths: Chinchillas need regular dust baths to keep their fur clean and healthy. The dust absorbs excess oils and moisture from their fur.
Temperature sensitivity: Chinchillas are sensitive to heat and should be kept in a cool environment, ideally between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit (15-21 degrees Celsius).
No water baths: They should never be bathed with water as their dense fur takes a long time to dry and can lead to health issues.
Chewing habits: Chinchillas have constantly growing teeth, and they need appropriate chew toys to prevent dental problems.
Escape artists: Chinchillas are excellent escape artists, so their cages and play areas need to be secure.
Regular exercise: They need opportunities for exercise and playtime outside of their cage.
Veterinary care: Regular check-ups with an exotic pet veterinarian are crucial to monitor their health and catch any potential issues early on.
Quiet and calm environment: Chinchillas are sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements, so a calm living environment is beneficial for their well-being.
Time and attention: Chinchillas are active and curious animals, requiring daily interaction and mental stimulation.
So. Much. Poop.
Oh wait, so if they don't have chew toys, can it grow long enough to harm themselves?
That's super sad! They are the cutest little things.
That's my understanding of it. It is apparently common in the rodent family.
Most rodents have continuously growing teeth. Like fingernails. In the wild, they constantly gnaw on stuff to sharpen and wear down those teeth.
As pets, if they are fed only soft food, and aren't given something tough to gnaw on, the teeth won't wear, and will just keep growing until the animal can no longer close their mouths.
This can be addressed by a visit to the vet, who will grind down the teeth, but you can only get to this point by seriusly neglecting your pet.
I had a rabbit whose teeth didn't meet so couldn't wear down by eating. Every 6 weeks I had to go to the vets and he clipped the teeth with nail clippers. It freaked me out so much.