Chinchilla

The Chinchilla is native to the mountains of South America (Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia). They live in colonies called "herds" in ranges from 2.500 to 14.000 ft. above the sea level. The Chinchilla (Little Chincha in Spanish) got its name for the Chincha Indians.

Chinchillas looks like the standard squirrel; however, the body is shorter, and the tail is less fluffy. It ears are large and hairless.

There are two living species of Chinchilla; The Brevicaudata Chinchilla and Chinchilla Lanigera, with a little bit of difference between each other; the Chinchilla Brevicaudata has a shorter tail, ears, and a thicker neck. Adult female Chinchillas weight about 1 and a half pound and they are bigger than males.

Chinchilla’s lifespan is from 12 to 20 years. They also have a very long pregnancy (111 days); so babies are born with its eyes open, all 20 teeth present, and the body covered in fur. You will find a variety of colors. The most common colors are white, black velvet, beige, ebony, violet, and sapphire. However, the only color found in nature is standard gray.

They are very low-maintenance pets. Chinchillas instinctively clean themselves by taking dust baths. They do not bathe in water because this may cause them to lose their fur, and also, water will retain moisture close to the skin, which may cause fungus growth. They use the dust baths to remove the oil and moisture from their fur. The thick coat of the Chinchillas resists fleas and reduces loose dander, making Chinchillas hypoallergenic, which made them an excellent pet for someone who may be allergic.

Their teeth need to be worn down, as they grow continuously and can prevent them from eating if they become overweight. Wooden sticks and chew toys and are good options to keep their teeth in a proper size.

Chinchillas have very sensitive gastrointestinal tracts, so a healthy diet is essential. Commercial foods, made especially for Chinchillas and produced in pellet form, are available in pet stores. Also, Seeds, nuts, and dried fruits like cranberries, bananas and apples are Chinchillas favorite treats. You should always ask the veterinarian for what is the best for your pet.

Since the Chinchillas are very fragile, they are not recommended as a child's pet. However, they are excellent pets for adults! Like most rodents, they spend the majority of the time inside the cage, with proper care and diet, they will become an ideal pet to have in a small apartment or a house.