Are chinchillas expensive to look after?

Although Chinchillas are considered exotic pets, they are comparatively inexpensive to keep and look after compared to other exotic animals. After the initial costs, these small rodents do not cost much to look after, making them an excellent choice for pet owners on a budget.
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Is owning a chinchilla expensive?

There are other costs of chinchilla ownership that need to be considered, too. Essential, initial costs are typically around $400, while ongoing costs of ownership are around $200 to $300 per year. So, chinchillas aren't extremely expensive pets, but they definitely aren't the cheapest that you can buy.
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Is a chinchilla a high maintenance pet?

Chinchillas are pretty low maintenance.

Once you have a cage set up, all they need is refilled water, food, and hay every day, and weekly cage cleanings & new things to chew.
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Is chinchillas hard to care for?

Like any pet, chinchillas have their own unique needs and are considered an intermediate pet in terms of care, meaning they are harder to care for than the average pet but aren't the most difficult pet to take of daily.
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Why is chinchilla expensive?

The reason chinchilla fur apparel is so expensive is largely due to the process used to make it; chinchilla fur is notoriously fragile and must be tended to closely in order to be converted into a coat.
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Pet chinchillas are amazing, expensive, and high-maintenance



Do chinchillas stink?

Unlike many household pets, chinchillas are pretty much odor-free. If your chinchilla does leave a smell, either he's sick or you're not cleaning his cage as often as you should. If your pet's body develops an odor, take him to the vet as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
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How much does a chinchilla cost monthly?

$300-$350 per year

These ongoing costs will cost around $25 per month for a single Chinchilla.
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Why you shouldn't get a chinchilla?

They are expensive. The initial cost for this exotic animal is relatively high, and on top of that they require a certain kind of cage and food that tend to add up. They are nocturnal animals, which means they sleep during the day.
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Is a chinchilla a good first pet?

Chinchilla's are relatively easy pets to take care of and shouldn't be too hard for most people. This is why they also make for a great first pet!
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Do chinchillas like to cuddle?

While chinchillas prefer not to cuddle, they are still very affectionate with their pet parents. They are naturally curious and enjoy being out of their chinchilla cages whenever possible—supervised by their pet parent, of course!
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What are the cons of having a chinchilla?

This can be messy, and some owners might have allergic reactions. Expensive – Chinchillas cost far more than small rodents like hamsters or gerbils. Their cage, food, dust, wheels, etc. will run the cost up even more.
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Are chinchillas noisy?

In general, Chinchillas are relatively quiet animals, but they do have a range of unique sounds that they use to communicate with one another and express their feelings, be it anger, fear, or simple contentment.
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What you need to know before getting a chinchilla?

10 Things to Know Before Getting a Chinchilla as Pet
  • Chinchillas chew—a lot! ...
  • Chinchilla are active and fast. ...
  • Chinchillas need a lot of space. ...
  • Chinchillas are a commitment. ...
  • Chinchillas are night owls. ...
  • Chinchillas need regular baths. ...
  • Chinchillas prefer it on the cool side. ...
  • Chinchillas need patience.
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Do chinchillas bite?

With no escape route available, the chinchilla may bite the threat (often the owner's fingers). This type of biting is most common if the pet owner tries to reach in suddenly to grab the chinchilla. Chinchillas have long and extremely sharp front teeth. A bite can be severe, deep and painful.
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Do chinchillas like to be held?

And, with gentle handling from a young age, most chinchillas can become quite tame and bond closely with their owners. But don't expect them to like being held and cuddled like many dogs and cats. They usually don't, though they'll often express their affection for you in other ways.
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How much do chinchillas cage cost?

Initial costs: A chinchilla safe cage: The cage should be plastic free and large enough for your chinchilla. Our Chinchilla Mansion, for example, measures 30"w x 24"d x 48"h and costs $289.99.
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Are chinchillas potty trained?

Chinchillas are one of the most intelligent species of rodent, and many of them have been successfully potty trained by their owners. Most litter-box trained chinchillas still defecate around the cage, but can learn to urinate in the litter-box.
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Are male or female chinchillas better?

According to author and chinchilla expert Jack C. Harris, neither gender of chinchilla is notably more suited to life as a pet. Since both male and female chinchillas make pleasant pets for most, you don't have to rule out individuals of either sex.
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What is a better pet hedgehog or chinchilla?

One significant difference to pay attention to is the lifespan. Pet chinchillas live between 10 and 20 years. Hedgehogs only live up to 6 years, even when kept as pets. If you aren't willing to make a long commitment, then you should reconsider buying a chinchilla.
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Is it okay to only have one chinchilla?

Well, some chinchillas are fine living on their own, while others enjoy the companionship of another chinchilla. Of course, some animals also enjoy close contact, and others want their own space. Your chinchilla's personality will dictate what he wants, and you may or may not be able to house two of the pets together.
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What is the hardest pet to take care of?

All pet-patients require the same standard of care, but some species are just harder to treat than others.
  • Why are some animals harder to treat than others? ...
  • Pigs. ...
  • Song birds. ...
  • Hamsters. ...
  • Rattlesnakes. ...
  • Turtles and tortoises. ...
  • Exotic animals. ...
  • The bottom line.
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Do chinchillas need a wheel?

Chinchillas are very active creatures, and, living in a cage, you'll need to ensure they have access to a wheel to exercise, and plenty of space to run around in. A wheel also keeps them entertained, while also providing essential exercise.
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Are chinchillas good house pets?

To answer the question, yes, chinchillas make good pets! They require minimal attention, they're clean (although messy), and sleep while you're at work. Chinchillas are not nocturnal, they're crepuscular. This means that they are most active during the hours of dawn and dusk.
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Do chinchillas need to go to the vet?

All pet chinchillas should be examined by a qualified veterinarian within 48 hours of purchase and at least annually thereafter. This "new pet" exam is critical to detect signs of disease and help new pet owners get off on the right foot.
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