About Us Contact Us & Sales Policy Basic Chin Care For Sale Our Breeders: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6, 7, 8 Apple Branch Treats For Sale Apple Treats Source Customer Feedback Links

Chinchillas are very easy animals to take care of as long as you follow a few simple guidelines.      Due to having the thickest fur of any land animal, chinchillas must be kept in temperatures of under 75 degrees farenheit at all times. Chinchillas do not sweat, so a fan will not cool them. You will need an air conditioner if you do not have central air.      A chinchilla's diet should consist of a high quality pellet (Mazuri, Tradition, Kline, or Oxbow), timothy hay, and water. A heavy ceramic bowl is recommended so that they won't tip their pellets over. Water should be in a bottle, not a bowl since chinchillas are prone to fur fungus if they get wet.      Since chinchillas should not get wet, they take baths in dust. They should be given a dust bath twice a week, or more often in high humidity weather. Dust bathing too often can dry out their skin.      Treats are not necessary but if your chin is 6 months or older they can have one a day. A rosehip, a few old-fashioned oats, a bit of shredded wheat, or a cheerio makes a good treat. Raisins can also be given, but again no more than one per day. Chins also LOVE untreated Apple Branches, but they must be boiled and baked first.      Fresh fruits and vegetables are not good to feed your chinchilla since they are high in sugars and also can cause diarrhea. Nuts and seeds should be avoided as well since they are high in fat.      The cage should have adequate room for your chinchilla to jump and play. They can jump from ledge to ledge without the aid of ramps. Do not put anything plastic in your chinchilla's reach since they may ingest pieces of it. Wooden shelves are the best since wire shelves may hurt your chin's feet over time.      Certain woods (such as cedar) are toxic to animals, so make sure your chinchilla's bedding is made from a safe wood such as pine or aspen.      Chinchillas should get play time outside of their cage every day. Make sure you have a chin-safe area to play (such as a bathroom) and that all cords that could get chewed are out of reach.      Chinchillas are inquisitive creatures who like to do things on their own terms, but spend enough time gaining their trust and you will have a very rewarding friendship!