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What Are the Advantages of a Chinchilla as a Pet?

Britt Archer
Britt Archer

Keeping a chinchilla as a pet will not appeal to all types of pet owners, but this member of the rodent family, which is native to South America, can give much pleasure in households where it is a good match. Having a chinchilla as a pet in the home is beneficial for pet lovers who have allergies to furred animals because these exotic pets do not have dander, the substance that triggers many pet allergies. They will keep themselves clean and prefer to do it with dust baths. Another advantage is their resistance to fleas, stemming from the lanolin that is naturally present in their soft fur. Chinchillas have specific environmental requirements that are not hard to provide, but these requirements must be met.

Chinchillas are playful and active, especially at certain times of the day. They are classified as crepuscular, meaning their activity level rises markedly at dusk and dawn each day. Experts suggest they do better in a home that does not have young children; they do not enjoy being squeezed or heavily petted, although soft stroking of some areas are enjoyed. These animals also do best when their diet is strictly monitored because some types of food can have an adverse effect on their digestion. Keeping a chinchilla as a pet also means monitoring the temperature in their environment because they do not have sweat glands that would allow them to regulate their bodies’ temperature.

Chinchillas are good for people with allergies because they do not have dander.
Chinchillas are good for people with allergies because they do not have dander.

To keep a chinchilla as a pet in the average household, certain materials and considerations should be kept in mind. These exotic pets need a lot of exercise, and they’ll get it on their own if their owners keep the environment stocked with appropriate toys, such as a metal wheel that is large enough for them to run on. Chinchillas also greatly enjoy climbing and will benefit from having shelves to climb on. In addition, they have a natural tendency to burrow, requiring appropriate materials in their cages. Keeping a chinchilla as a pet also requires a little vigilance on the owner’s part because some natural substances are poisonous for them, such as the cedar chips an owner might use in another type of pet’s cage.

Chinchillas are playful and active pets.
Chinchillas are playful and active pets.

Care requirements when keeping a chinchilla as a pet also include making sure they have the proper type of wood to chew on to keep their ever-growing teeth in good health. Keeping a chinchilla as a pet means understanding that if they chew their pine shelves or other pine toys they are not being merely destructive, but they are performing a necessary physical requirement for good health. Owners also need to provide a good-size dust bath for chinchillas because this is their preferred method of remaining clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes chinchillas unique as pets compared to other small animals?

Exotic pets do not have dander, the substance that triggers allergies to cats and dogs.
Exotic pets do not have dander, the substance that triggers allergies to cats and dogs.

Chinchillas stand out due to their exceptionally soft fur, which is denser than most other rodents, making them very pleasant to handle. They are also known for their lively and curious nature, providing entertainment and interaction. Additionally, they are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, which can align well with a human's schedule.

How long can I expect a pet chinchilla to live?

Individuals who have allergies to pets may experience a runny nose and sneezing.
Individuals who have allergies to pets may experience a runny nose and sneezing.

Chinchillas have a notably long lifespan for small pets, often living between 10 to 20 years with proper care. This longevity surpasses that of many rodents, offering a long-term companionship. Their extended lifespan, however, also means a long-term commitment from their owners in terms of care and attention.

Are chinchillas high-maintenance pets?

While chinchillas are relatively independent, they do require a specific environment to thrive. They need a cool, dry place away from humidity and heat, as well as a spacious cage for exercise. Their dense fur necessitates dust baths instead of water baths to maintain coat health. Regular social interaction is also important for their well-being.

Do chinchillas require a special diet?

Chinchillas have sensitive digestive systems and require a diet high in fiber. They primarily eat hay and pellets formulated for chinchillas, supplemented with occasional treats like dried fruits or nuts. It's crucial to avoid sugary or fatty foods to prevent obesity and other health issues. Fresh water should always be available.

Are chinchillas good pets for families with children?

Chinchillas can be good family pets if children are taught how to handle them gently and respectfully. Due to their delicate bones and skittish nature, they may not be suitable for very young children who might handle them too roughly. Older children who understand the importance of gentle care can enjoy interacting with these intelligent creatures.

How do chinchillas fare with other household pets?

Chinchillas are prey animals and can be stressed or injured by larger pets like dogs and cats. It's essential to keep them in a secure environment and supervise any interaction. With smaller pets, such as other chinchillas, they can coexist peacefully if introduced properly and monitored for compatibility.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

You are right about chinchillas and proper diet and chewing Rundocuri. They spend a lot of time each day eating, and love to chew on objects. Another interesting fact about them is that they can jump very high. The best type of chinchilla cage is not only spacious but also tall with objects for these little pets to jump upon and climb.

Rundocuri

My friend has chinchillas as pets Heavanet, and they are very interesting to watch. Owners also must make sure they feed chinchillas food that is specially formulated for them, and provide objects for chewing to keep their teeth in good condition.

Heavanet

I had pet chinchillas when I was a teenager, and I thoroughly enjoyed them. These little animals are very soft, and once tamed, love to be petted. They are fun to watch when they take dust baths, and their cage was never extremely dirty. They are delicate animals though, and must be kept in large, secure cages away from cats, dogs, and small children.

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    • Chinchillas are good for people with allergies because they do not have dander.
      By: Vibe Images
      Chinchillas are good for people with allergies because they do not have dander.
    • Chinchillas are playful and active pets.
      By: Serhiy Kobyakov
      Chinchillas are playful and active pets.
    • Exotic pets do not have dander, the substance that triggers allergies to cats and dogs.
      By: Evgenia Tiplyashina
      Exotic pets do not have dander, the substance that triggers allergies to cats and dogs.
    • Individuals who have allergies to pets may experience a runny nose and sneezing.
      By: roboriginal
      Individuals who have allergies to pets may experience a runny nose and sneezing.