A chinchilla is a member of the rodent family the same as a squirrel, gerbil or guinea pig.

 

Where can you buy a chinchilla?

 

You can purchase a chinchilla from a pet store, a breeder (the best route), and chinchilla farms.

 

How much do chinchillas cost?

 

They range anywhere from $65 to $650, depends color, quality and seller. You can get on the internet and check prices and even find a breeder closest to you. Now, if you do not plan on picking up you chin yourself then there will be additional charges, shipping, health certificates, and shipping carts. All those will be added to the price of your chin.

 

Is it Best to buy chinchillas in a pair, or will they be ok alone?

 

If you plan to spend plenty of time with your chin, then one chin will be fine. However, if you only buy one chin then it is up to you to keep him/her company. He/she will be dependent on you for its family and will expect more attention from you. If you buy two or more, then they have someone to play with when you are not there. Keep in mind that chins can breed as early as six to eight months of age.

 

Are chinchillas hard to take care of on a day-to-day basis?

 

No, they are not hard to care for. All you will do to care for them will mainly consist of, feeding them 2 table spoon of chinchilla food , change their water daily, give them fresh hay daily, and clean their cages at least once a week. Keep in mind that the more time you spend with your chin, the more bonded the two of you will be. The food and water is important but time spent with your chins is important also.

 

Do chinchillas run free or live in a cage?

 

Chinchillas are best kept in a cage. They should have playtime at least once a day. Be sure to watch your chin closely when you let him/her out for playtime, NEVER leave them alone. They love to chew, and they will chew on just about anything.

 

At what age should I breed my chinchillas?

 

They can breed as early as 5 1/2 to 6 months of age and this is not healthy for the momma or the kit chinchillas.  "According to those who have been breeding for a number of years, it is best to introduce the pair after the female is at least one year of age." By the age of one year female are completely developed. Thier bones and body are more likely to carry a baby or babies. Producing and nursing kits requires more calcium for the mother, if she is still needing it for her own growth then she will not have enough to give to the kits. All, the kits and the mother, will suffer if the amount of calcium is not there for them all.

 

Is there any special information about the chin that I should ask?

 

Yes, it is very important to know the chins history. Ask about the chins mother and father (Their color and names). That is most important if you plan to breed. Never ever get a male and female that are related. Than could cause trouble.

 

What should I do if when I get home I decide a chin is not good for me?

 

Contact the breeder you purchased it from, most will take them back. Discuss the terms with the breeder before you get your chin. DO NOT take it to an animal shelter. Most animal shelters have neither the facilities or the knowledge to keep them and they will put them down.

 

Is there a special shampoo for chins?

 

Chinchillas can not be bathed in water. Therefor they do not need shampoo. Chinchillas will bath themselves in a special dust bath made for chinchillas. You can purchase this dust in most pet stores. Do not put your chin in water unless instructed by a vet.

 

Do chinchillas have an odor like ferrets or rabbits?

 

No, as long as you clean their cages weekly and change their bedding you will have no odor. They are almost odorless.

 

Do chinchillas bite?

 

Yes, chinchillas will bite under certain circumstances.  They will also bite if they think that they are threatened. They will most always give you warning signs like, barking at you and/or moving your hand away with their paws. Then, there are some chinchillas that are just not meant to be pets.