LOOKING AFTER YOUR CHINCHILLA

The Chinchillas life span is typically about 15 years but they have been known to live until 18 - 22 years so you do have to be commited, long term before homing a Chinchilla.

Chinchillas are approximately 10 - 14 inches and the tail adds on another 5 - 6 inches to the length of their body.

The Chinchilla will become tame and gentle if you handle them from a young age and can bond closely with their owners although sometimes they do not like to be held or cuddled. They are very active and playful, they can be kept singly but do prefer company so they can be homed together with same sex littermates or bonded together. For further information on how to bond Chinchillas, please go to

Chinchillas are nocturnal so please bear in mind that they will most likely be active duting the evening or night time and should be kept quiet during the day. They prefer a consistent routine for feeding and can get very stressed if this changes. As they are very active, Chinchillas must have a very roomy cage for exercise and plenty of toys for playtime. Chinchillas do need a variety of toys to keep them busy especially items for chewing to ensure their teeth are kept in good condition. They must also have regular access to a dust bath to ensure their fur does not get greasy. 

The Chinchilla require a diet made up of hay and food for Chinchillas. The best feed for Chinchillas is pellets, such as Charnwoods. They can be fed treats but only in moderation, raisins, grapes are quite acceptable. The digestive system of a Chinchilla is very sensitive so any change of diet must be introduced gradually.

Remember, Chinchillas must gain your trust so you must be very patient and gently with them.

CHINCHILLA CHECK LIST     

• LARGE CAGE WITH DIFFERENT LEVELS & WOODEN SHELVES
• FOOD BOWL
• WATER BOTTLE
• CHINCHILLA FOOD & HAY
• WOODEN TOYS
• SAND BATH & CHINCHILLA SAND
• CUTTLEFISH
• BRUSH OR COMB