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05 Aug 2014
Tips For Keeping Chinchillas Happy
Posted By : Guest Filed Under : Chinchillas | Pet Care
Chinchillas are fascinating pets, and like most rodents, they are remarkably clever. Of course, being beautiful to behold, and soft as silk to the touch isn’t a good enough reason to keep chinchillas as pets. Fortunately, given a bit of space, plenty of love, a proper diet and following these tips will make it easy for you to keep your chinchillas happy and healthy for as long as they live (which can be up to 20 years).



Understanding Chinchilla Needs

As with most pets, there are a few key areas where their owners can focus for chinchilla health. When caring for and handling your pet, you should always keep these needs in mind.
  • Eating – Chinchillas have a special digestive system that allows them to pull the necessary fibre from their diet. In order to keep everything running smoothly, and to maintain excellent health, chinchillas need access to plenty of fresh Timothy Hay every day.
  • Sleeping – These beautiful animals are nocturnal; they would far prefer to sleep through the day and play through the night. As an owner, you’ll need to respect this balance. Never wake your sleeping chinchilla, especially if you just want to play.
  • Exercise – Chinchillas need plenty of space to run and play. They are also incredible jumpers (some have been known to reach the top of the fridge in a single leap). Ensure that you provide your pets with a multi-level cage with as much room as you can afford.
  • Company – These pets are social animals. And, while they often learn to love their people, they do prefer and yearn for other chinchilla friends. When adopting your first chinchilla, consider getting a bonded pair right from the start.
What Can You Do to Help?

Your chinchillas will always be happiest when you can attend to their basic needs in a patient and unrushed manner. This includes:
  • Offering a pile of fresh hay every night and changing the water in the water bottle every day. However, there’s no need to become alarmed if your chinchilla doesn’t appear to be terribly thirsty. It’s normal, but fresh water is still crucial for good health.
  • Chinchillas are prey animals, and they are easily startled by loud noises and fast movements. Try to avoid both and your pets will become relaxed quicker.
  • Remember that exercise is paramount. If you can, allow your pets the run of the house for periods of the day. The best time for this is late afternoon or early evening when they’re just waking up naturally.
Top Tips to Take Away:
  • Chinchillas can live for up to 20 years provided they’ve been well cared for.
  • Caring for chinchillas can be fairly simple as long as you work with their natural rhythm, not yours.
  • Chinchillas need plenty of hay and fresh water every day.
  • Don’t forget that these pets need plenty of exercise; a small hutch will never be enough space.
  • Everyone wants a friend and your chinchilla is no different.
Tags : Tips For Keeping Chinchillas Happy In South Africa , Buy Chinchilla Food South Africa , Chinchilla Cage South Africa , Caring For Chinchillas South Africa
 
  
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