Chinchillas are mainly herbivorous (eat only plant material) and caecotrophic (they produce two types of faecal pellet, the first type, the 'ceacotroph', is eaten by the chinchillas directly from the anus to produce a second, small, dry pellet) (Boussarie, 2002; Kupersmith, 1998). read more
Keep in mind that It takes regular dust baths to keep your chinchilla's soft, thick fur in good condition. Chinchillas should never be bathed in water. The fine chinchilla dust provided for a dust bath penetrates the thickness of the chinchilla's fur, where it absorbs oils and clears away dirt. Not only do dust baths keep the fur of chinchillas in tip-top shape, but they also really seem to enjoy having a vigorous dust bath. read more
Chinchillas prefer routine; they’re quite shy and easily stressed if their home is near noise/activity ; Wooden/rope/cardboard/pumice toys to chew. Avoid plastic toys. Chinchillas like gnawing/chewing. If bored they may suffer. A shallow tray filled with clean fine sand/'chinchilla dust' daily to bathe in, keeping their fur in good condition. read more
Chinchillas need a proper diet, the right accommodation, plenty of physical and mental stimulation and to be kept in stable and compatible social groups in order to help prevent problems. If any of your chinchillas are exhibiting a behaviour problem, see your vet first to identify any medical reasons which may be causing or influencing the problem. read more
Chinchillas need food in their digestive tract at all times so get your pet to the vet as soon as possible to prevent more complications. Heat Distress Chinchillas are sensitive to the heat, after all they do have a built in fur coat, and must be kept at a comfortable temperature (under 75F). 80F can be fatal. read more