Chinchillas are originally from the dry slopes of the Andes mountains
in Chile, Peru, Bolivia and Argentine. They got their name from the Chincha
Indians who used these animals for food and clothing.
- What is a Chinchilla?: A chinchilla is a very curious furry creature.
They resemble a rabbits body with a squirrels tail. They are a rodent. They
come in colors ranging from white to black with all colors in between. They
each have their own personality.
- Colors: Chinchillas range in color from white to blank and all
shades and variance's in-between.
- Weight: adults weigh between 18-30 ounces.
- Care: Hold it strongly by its tail (at the base of the tail) and
use your other hand to support its body. Never grab the tip of the tail
or it could come off in your hand. I prefer to pick up my chin like I would
any animal with both hands under the animal. Carry the animal close to your
body. The chin may like to snuggle in your arm. It makes them secure I recommend
using a metal cage. Plastic cages could be chewed through. Wooden cages
will be chewed on also.
- Gestation period: 111-120 days
- Training: Chinchillas are intelligent for rodent-type animals.
You will need some patience and it will take you awhile to teach your chin
what is expected of him. Your chin will have to trust you. You will have
to coax it by giving it treats. (Similar to teaching a dog or cat) They
tend to be very smart and quite responsive. So hard work and dedication
will eventually pay off. You have to be consistent in your training and
show them rewards as an enforcement for their behavior.
- Life span: Chins have been reported to live up to 20 years. The
average is 15 years.
- Diet: Chins have very sensitive digestive systems that is why it
is highly recommended to feed them a good consistent diet of chinchilla
food rather than guinea pig and other animal feed. They are also susceptible
to Giardia. (this is found in some water supplies). Chins do not tolerate
the heat well so it is best to keep them housed indoors and at temps below
80 degrees. If your chin is suffering from diarrhea it is best to see a
vet immediately to rule out Giardia, etc. Some chins have shown signs of
heart problems as well as seizures. It is best to buy from a breeder that
is knowledgeable and have your chin checked over by a vet soon after getting
him or her. Some chins have teeth issues and a vet can check these too.