Chinchillas
Housing: Chinchillas are very sensitive to heat and humidity. Their environment must not exceed 70 degrees, and humidity needs to stay below 60%. Their fur is incredibly dense, which makes them suseptible to death by heatstroke. The cage should be mesh or wire for good ventillation. Make sure that the mesh or wire is small enough that they dont’ get feet caught, since they like to jump and run against cage walls. It should also be large enough to accomodate running and playng. The bedding will need to be non clumping (such as aspen or kiln-dried pine) and changed weekly to prevent disease. You will also need to provide some sort of hideaway and an exercise wheel. Consider keeping a tv on nearby to reduce boredom as well.
Handling: Make sure that you are always supporting the feet when you pick them up. The best way is to grasp the tail where it meets the body and slide your hand under their feet while drawing it into your body. Chinchillas like to jump and run, so make sure that they are in an area where they cannot be injured while playing.
Feeding: Begin with fresh, filtered water. Tap water can contain chlorine which can compromise their health. You will need to get specifically formulated food for your chinchilla, and keep a high=fiber hay (like timothy hay) around all the time. You will also need to be careful about over-feeding treats.
Exercise: Again, playtime is important! If you are unable to be the chinchillas primary companion, you might consider a pair. Also, having toys and wheels to exercise your chinchilla is necessary.
Health: Chinchillas are susceptible to a variety of health and stress related illnesses. For this reason, you need to make sure that you have a vet that specializes in chinchillas, and you will need to take them to the vet for regular check-ups. They also have teeth that grow continuously, and will need safe chew toys to keep them trimmed.
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