Chinchilla

Sure, they may have unusual cleaning habits (a dust bath?!), but Chinchillas are one of the best pets anyone could ever want!

Chinchillas have very soft fur that helps keep them warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. Chinchillas need special care, to maintain their extra-soft fur. Because Chinchillas originate from mountains, their cages need to have extra space and ledges on which to jump, plus an exercise wheel, too. Chinchillas can't sweat! So, they must be kept in a cool space with plenty of air ventilation.

Feed them well—a high-quality, hay-based pellet and loose hay—and give them many chew toys!

Chinchillas are mostly more active at night than during the day, and they may even greet you in the morning with chirps and squeaks. You can teach a Chinchilla tricks, and they may even learn to recognize their own name. When you get to know one as a “kit,” a baby Chinchilla, it will grow up with love for you and your gentle touch.

Your pet Chinchilla could be any number of colors: white, black, bluish gray (the only color found in nature), beige, and many others. There are three types of domestic Chinchillas: Chinchilla Brevicaudata, Chinchilla Costina, and Chinchilla Langigera. Are you ready to be a Chinchilla owner? Click here to see if this cutie will be your next best friend. Don't forget to visit the Kaytee Kid Zone.

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Thank you for your interest in Kaytee. We hope birding, pet bird ownership and small animal ownership continues to be a special part of your life.

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