Chinchillas are quiet, gentle pets that can remain tame and docile if handled regularly from a young age. Because they have delicate rib cages, proper handling is very important to keep them safe and stress-free.
How to Safely Handle a Chinchilla
Avoid grabbing their fur. Chinchillas can release patches of fur as a natural defense mechanism, which can be alarming if you’re not expecting it.
⚠️ Avoid grabbing their fur. Chinchillas can release patches of fur as a natural defense mechanism, which can be alarming if you’re not expecting it.
Grooming and Dust Baths
Chinchillas have dense, luxurious coats that require regular dust baths to stay clean and healthy. Instead of water, provide a dust bath made from volcanic ash. Exotic Nutrition’s Chinchilla Dust is specially formulated to keep their coats soft and shiny.
Offer a dust bath 1–2 times per week by placing 1 inch of dust in a small pan or container. Allow your chinchilla to roll and play for about 15–20 minutes, then remove the bath to prevent overuse.
Housing and Enrichment
A safe and spacious environment is key to raising a happy chinchilla. Our Chinchilla Cage & Starter Pack provides everything you need to create the perfect home setup.
For exercise, a solid-surface wheel like the Chin-Sprint Wheel 15" gives chinchillas a safe way to burn energy and stay active. Pair this with chew toys and climbing ledges to mimic their natural behaviors.
Diet and Supplements
In addition to a high-quality chinchilla diet and hay, supplements can help maintain health and coat quality. Exotic Nutrition’s VitaGlow Supplement provides essential omega fatty acids to support skin, coat, and overall vitality.
Bedding Recommendations
Choose aspen bedding over pine or cedar, since pine and cedar contain phenols that can cause respiratory and liver problems with long-term exposure. Aspen is safer and more comfortable for your pet.
Ready to Shop? Shop By Pet or Shop By Category
Want Discounts? Click here to subscribe to email and SMS marketing
Got Questions? Browse more free Blogs or Contact Us with any inquiries regarding our products.
Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
Exotic Nutrition is proud to serve hundreds of universities, zoological parks, veterinarians, research centers and other institutions seeking to advance the health and well-being of exotics worldwide. See a full list of institutions using our products here.
Exotic Nutrition has a heart for animals in need. Through regular donations to rescues, rehabilitators, and special fundraiser events, Exotic Nutrition is making a significant impact in the lives of animals. See a full list of our charitable donations here.
Leave a Comment