Welcome to our ever-growing FAQ
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Click here for some background information on LLC.
Let's Love Chinchillas is a USA based group, made specifically to help new owners and current owners learn what is and is not right for their pets. I, Amber, started LLC when I was in High school. My motivation to make LLC came from learning that I was harming my pet with the care I was providing. I was feeding a bad diet, over treating, offering dangerous items, and not really doing any research on the animals I owned. I always loved my pets, and got my first chinchilla when I was 8 or 10 years old. I do believe I lost my early pets do to my lack of knowledge. I had met a few breeders while in high school, and quickly began making changes. Once I realized I was wrong for putting all my faith in questionable resources, I wanted to provide as much help to others as I could.
I now have over 15 years of experience owning these animals. I have many breeders across the USA whom I speak to regularly. These breeders are knowledgeable, and breed for more than cute pets. They breed to set show standards and have invested quite a bit of time and passion into their herds. The care is their top priority. I also have great Vets at my disposal for research. Much of my wealth of knowledge comes from vets, breeders, rescues, and personal experience. We will always encourage you to seek a vet for any emergency or medical needs, we do not replace the need for medical professionals but we DO encourage you to find a experienced exotic vet who knows more about the animals than what is provided in a few short paragraphs in a old text book. Put your pet's life in able hands. This website is not just me speaking my personal opinions, there are facts from many sources, and the opinions and experience of other in-the-know individuals. |
Basic Chinchilla Q&A
What is a Chinchilla?
A chinchilla is an exotic rodent that was brought to the USA as part of the fur trade. In the last few decades they have become a popular pocket pet in the pet market, and are now commonly bred for pets and sold in private breeding locations and pet stores.
Are chinchillas good pets for children?
Chinchillas are best suited for young adults and adults who can commit to their long lifespans. Children often do not understand the commitment, and many chinchillas are surrendered or sold when children grow up and fly the nest to school.
How long do chinchillas live?
Chinchillas can live 15-20 plus years with exceptional genes and care. The average lifespan for a chinchilla purchased and kept to most pet store standards is 4-8 years.
Do chinchillas bite?
They can. Anything with a mouth can bite you, which is why it is important to approach all animals with understanding and caution.
What does a chinchilla need to survive?
A chinchilla needs a quality diet, access to sunlight, fresh water, a chew source, a calm environment, and a cold environment ( under 75 degrees F year round ) to thrive and survive.
Do chinchillas have to have companions?
No, you do not have to have chinchillas in pairs or more to have a happy healthy pet. As long as you can provide the time and attention to socialize with your pet, they will be happy alone. Some chinchillas even prefer to be alone! In the wild they do live in large groups, but the social structure has changed over decades in captivity. DO check with your local requirements and restrictions. Some countries and areas require keeping your pets with companions. If your area does, please be sure to get a same sex companion.
Chinchillas should also only be kept alone or with other chinchillas. You should not mix them with other species.
Chinchillas should also only be kept alone or with other chinchillas. You should not mix them with other species.
Should I get a male or female companion?
If you are a pet owner, and own a chinchilla of one sex, it is highly recommended to get a same sex companion.
Will same sex chinchillas fight?
Any animals can fight, owning chinchillas of the same sex does not heighten or lower your chances of them fighting in the future. It is encouraged to own same sex companions to prevent breeding.
Is it true that chinchillas have to breed once in their lifespan?
No. Chinchillas do not have to have a litter to be healthy. Breeding should only be done by professional and knowledgeable breeders who understand the process and risks.
What is a "BYB"?
A BYB is a Back Yard Breeder. Backyard breeding is discouraged among chinchilla owners. Many people choose to breed their pets to produce more chinchillas and sell them off to random people online to to their friends. While the idea of selling cute baby kits is appealing, it can be very ugly. Chinchillas are to be bred to a set standard for quality. Breeding recklessly will cause mousy and unhealthy animals to be born. Chinchillas have a variety of genetic faults that can easily surface with the wrong pairings, resulting in devastating life altering and ending effects on kits. Breeders invest a lot of time and passion into breeding, and attend shows and keep extensive pedigrees on their animals to help dodge the genetic faults.
Question 10
Handling Q&A
WHen is the best time to handle a Chinchilla?
Is your pet new? If so, allow them to decompress and relax for a couple of days before handling them.
The best time to hold your chinchilla is in the early morning or late evening when they are naturally awake.
The best time to hold your chinchilla is in the early morning or late evening when they are naturally awake.
Is it safe to hold them by their tail!?
Yes! When done correctly. You can hold your chinchilla by the BASE of their tail and by supporting the rest of their body weight on the table or with your hand. The base of tail has a thick and strong tail bone, larger than what is needed for their bodies. If you hold them by the tip of the tail, you can break the bone or cause the skin to deglove. Only hold the base of the tail, firmly.
WHy is fur coming of my chinchilla!?
There are 2 answers to this.
1.) your chinchilla is priming, which is their equivalent to shedding.
2.) you, your other pet, or something in your pet's cage is causing "fur slip" which is a natural defense mechanism chinchillas have. Their fur releases to confuse predators while they escape. You can read more about Fur slip under "medical" and on the "Problems with fur" tab.
1.) your chinchilla is priming, which is their equivalent to shedding.
2.) you, your other pet, or something in your pet's cage is causing "fur slip" which is a natural defense mechanism chinchillas have. Their fur releases to confuse predators while they escape. You can read more about Fur slip under "medical" and on the "Problems with fur" tab.
Play time Q&A
How long should play time be?
Play time varies, but for adult Chinchillas play time should not exceed 30 minutes. Lately, there has been a misconception that chinchillas need multiple hours of exercise outside their cage daily, but we believe that extended periods outside of the cage is excessive and can lead to higher stress levels, and risk hypoglycemic episodes. Some variables to consider are if you have other pets ( which can be a safety risk. ) or if the weather is warm ( this can cause heat stroke ) or if your Chinchilla is under 6 months of age. Chinchillas under 6 months should have no more than 15 minutes of play time. Always supervise your pet's play time.
Where and when is the best place to have play time?
We believe the best time to have play time is early in the morning or late in the evening, when a chinchilla is naturally awake. The best place to have play time, in our opinion, is the bathroom. The bathroom is the easiest room to chin-proof. Close the shower or tub, put washes and other items out of reach on the counter or under the sink. Be sure cupboards are closed and always check that the toilet seat and lid are down! Bathrooms tend to be the coldest areas of the house, too! Perk!
What do chinchillas do to play?
Chinchillas do not play like cats and dogs, but will become adventurous and curious when provided the right items. Offer your pet items to climb, and dash through. Something like a medium height cat tree will be sufficient. Just be sure to offer something safe that will not harm them if chewed, because chinchillas always always find a way to chew their toys.
Is play time required?
No, play time is optional. Chinchillas are prey animals, and they naturally do not like wide open spaces. Some animals are more comfortable than others when being exposed. You can have a happy and healthy pet without allowing play time.
Should my Chinchilla play with my cat/dog/ferret/etc?
No. Chinchillas are prey animals and should not be permitted to interact with animals of different species. All species have their own body language and vocal language. If the dialog becomes confused, your pets may harm each other. If your other pet is a predator animal ( cat/dog ) their natural instinct and prey drive can kick in at any time. It is not advised to put any of your pets in these sort of dangerous situations.
Diet Q&A
What do chinchillas eat?
In captivity, Chinchillas need a dry and bland simple diet. This diet consists of fresh water, Quality pellets, and Hay.
Can I give my chinchillas treats?
Yes, but they must be safe treats. A chinchilla's diet is very restrictive and should not be altered or sweetened. All treats should be given in moderation. Just because something is labeled "for chinchillas" at the store does not mean it is healthy or safe to give your pet. Please see our Diet page under Care.
Why won't my chinchilla eat?
If your chinchilla is not eating ( about 2 -4 tablespoons a day ) seek medical attention from a experienced exotic vet or advice from a reputable breeder/rescue in your area.
DO I have to limit any of their food?
Yes and no. You should limit any treats to 1-3 times a week. You do not have to limit water or pellet consumption. Your pet should also have access to hay at all times. Chinchillas will not over eat their basic diet, but they will indulge in treats and unhealthy items, which should not be offered.
Emergencies
What should I do in the event of an emergency?
Please seek medical attention immediately. Find your local ER clinic for animals, or a local exotic vet. Chinchillas should always see a exotic specialist.
Should I have a first aid kit?
Yes, sometimes chinchillas get minor cuts and abrasions that are easily treatable at home. Other times chinchillas need post-op care like hand feeding and probiotic care. Some common items we suggest are Blukote, Vetericyn, ( for cuts ), Cranberry Tablets ( for urinary tract infections ), Organic Honey ( for low blood sugar ), an emergency cone ( to prevent chewing ) and an emergency / isolation carrier ( check Quality Cage.com! ) , You can find the Emergency Kit tab under "medical".