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.

How much does it cost to take your chinchilla to the vet?

Depending on the vet you choose, a basic checkup will cost around $50, but because Chinchillas are classed as exotic animals, these fees can be more, and you should budget around $100 just to be safe.

Do chinchillas carry any diseases?

There are no species-specific viral diseases described for chinchillas. Chinchillas are susceptible to human herpesvirus 1 (HSV-1) and may play a role as a temporary reservoir for human infections.

Do chinchillas get sick easily?

Common conditions of pet chinchillas include bite wounds, respiratory diseases, overgrown and impacted teeth, gastrointestinal stasis, bloat, diarrhea, skin problems, and heat stroke.

Why you should not own 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.

When to take your chinchilla to a vet

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.

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!

What does a sick chinchilla look like?

Chinchillas may not exhibit noticeable signs of illness until they are very sick. A sick chinchilla will lost interest in food, look dull/depressed, be lethargic and often sit hunched over in a cage corner.

Why do chinchillas cry at night?

Chinchillas will often make this sound when they appear to be asleep and when their surroundings are quiet. This is because they have heard something that they did not recognize; therefore, they need to warn the herd. Chinchillas do not need to have other chinchillas around to make the warning call.

Why do chinchillas pee blood?

Signs of bladder sludge can include blood in the urine, frequent urination, painful urination, or visible crystals in the urine. Any of these signs, again, warrant a trip to your trusted veterinarian.

Can chinchilla poop make you sick?

It tells us that a large percentage of healthy chinchillas may be shedding Giardia in their stool, and that they typically shed types that can cause disease in people.

Do chinchillas get fleas?

Chinchilla fur is difficult for fleas to penetrate, making a flea infestation of your chinchilla very unlikely, but chinchillas can get fleas. Luckily, fleas are rare in chinchillas. That does not mean you should automatically rule out fleas as a cause for symptoms like itching and hair loss.

What to do if a chinchilla bites you?

Keep your hand in the cage until the chinchilla stops biting and then treat your wound. Wash your wound with water and apply antibiotic ointment and a bandage if necessary. If the wound is very painful and does not heal, seek medical attention as you may need stitches.

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!

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.

Where do chinchillas like to be petted?

Starting with the head and back is a safe place because most chinchillas have no issues being pet there.

How do I know if my chinchilla is happy?

A chilled chinchilla who has bonded with you will prefer you to sit on the floor and let them hop all over you, while they make little chattering sounds along with some excited tiny squeaks. Some may even enjoy a little snuggling. A really happy chinchilla will popcorn and bounce around excitedly all over the place.

How can you tell if a chinchilla is in pain?

Changes in their normal behaviour can be early signs they're ill or in pain, but because chinchillas sleep during the day, you may not easily notice if they're unwell. If your chinchillas aren't eating or are quieter than usual, they're highly likely to be ill or in pain.

What diseases can chinchillas pass to humans?

These little animals are associated with human salmonellosis, and they carry various mycobacteria. ▸ Chinchillas. About 80,000 households own chinchillas, which carry Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes associated with inflammatory tinea capitis. These animals also harbor Aspergillus niger.

How do you check a chinchillas health?

Can you potty train chinchillas?

Because chinchilla feces has no odor, vets say it's basically impossible to teach them to defecate in a litter box. However, with a bit of effort, you can train your new furry friend to use a chinchilla litter box for urination.

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.

How much is a chinchilla worth?

A chinchilla typically costs between $150 and $350 for a healthy juvenile/adult. However, prices can range from under $100 to over $400 depending on the breeder and type of chinchilla. There are other costs of chinchilla ownership that need to be considered, too.