The adorable Chinchilla
Chinchillas are native to the Andes Mountains, in South America. They are fragile little creatures, with round bodies, round ears, and long fluffy tails. They can be black, gray, white, beige, and violet.
They are very active, and playful, and they love to climb. Chinchillas are more active at dawn and dusk. They have really soft, thick fur, and can overheat easily. They will sometimes lay on a cool rock In order to stay cool.
A Chinchillas fur is so dense, that fleas and flys can not live on them, or else they will suffocate. Chinchillas can not get wet. If they do, their fur traps the water, and fungus grows on their skin and fur. Instead of bathing in water, Chinchillas take regular dust baths.
Chinchillas are social animals. They should be kept with at least one, or more Chinchillas, unless a vet says not to. Pet Chinchillas need a lot of care. If they are cared for right, they can live to over fifteen years.
Hay is seventy percent of a Chinchillas diet. It’s better for their teeth if they are given long strands of hay, and they also enjoy it better. Chinchillas need a 24/7 supply of hay. Chinchillas also need chinchilla pellets. It is best to give Chinchillas one treat a day, or one treat three times a week. They also need a constant supply of fresh cold water.
Chinchillas teeth never stop growing. They need wooden chinchilla toys, or sticks to keep their teeth short and healthy. Plastic is toxic to Chinchillas. It can mess up their intestines.
A Chinchillas cage needs to be tall, with multiple floors. They need ledges, so they can jump around and be happy. They need interesting toys, and a large rock to keep them cool when they are getting hot. You should also get them a wheel so they can loose some energy. It also keeps them exercised.
Make sure to let them have regular dust baths, and keep a litter box near by. You do not need to clip a Chinchillas nails, they can can do that on their own. Thank you for reading my blog. For more posts on domestic or wild animals, go to virginianelsonart.com.