Keeping a Pet Chinchilla Blog about Pet Animals
The chinchilla is becoming more popular as a pet due partly to their timid and gentle nature and their unique features. They are one of the most unique domesticated members of the rodent family. Chinchillas had become rare by the end of the 19th century because of the demand for their fur to make clothing. They are now protected by the Convention on International Trade of Endangered animals and are no longer hunted.
Chinchillas live in groups that resemble colonies and their proper name is herds. Females are bigger than the males. The females can breed at any time and usually have a very long pregnancy. Their babies are born with their eyes open and covered in fur. They usually have very small litters and twins are very common. Usually a domestic chinchilla will live to be around 12 years of age.
These gorgeous little furballs are easy to tame and are very clean animals. With a little patience and effort they make good pets. However, they are a more suitable pet for adults or older children because they are naturally nervous animals and are easily stressed. They are simple to care for and the most important thing to remember is that they get the correct diet. They need a diet that is high in fibre and protein, but also needs to be low in fat and moisture. They need daily exercise outside of their cage and need ample room inside their cage as well. The minimum size of cage would be 1m by 1.5m floor space and 1.3m tall with several shelves at different heights.
Chinchillas are nocturnal by nature and enjoy sleeping in the day. They become more active and playful in the evenings. This is a perfect pet for someone who works days and can enjoy them during the evenings when they are active. A word of caution though, they can be quite noisy and active throughout the night so you might not want to keep them in your bedroom!
They like companionship and are healthy and happier in the company of another Chinchilla. If you are considering getting a Chinchilla as a pet you should check with your local rescue centre. Unfortunately, many of these loveable furry pets end up being abandoned because people often buy them on impulse and then find that they are unable to give them the love and care they need.
If you own a Chinchilla and have any advice for those considering one as a pet, please register as an AFI site user and post your comments below. Or maybe you have a cute photo of your pet chinchilla that you would like to add to our pet gallery ?Animal Friends Pet Insurance , the UK's only not-for-profit pet insurance provider, currently provides insurance for dogs, cats and soon also horses, donkeys and ponies.
