Critters Collection: Chinchilla



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Critters Home Page: Critter Collection: Chinchilla

Chinchilla Cages

Chinchillas are ideal pets for anyone--even apartment dwellers. The best habitat for a single chinchilla is a cage at least 3 by 2 by 2 feet--the bigger, the better. Select a cage that the animal won't gnaw; galvanized grating or galvanized wire wesh are suitable materials. Cages with slide-out bottom drawers make cleaning easier.

When selecting an area to keep the cage, remember the chinchilla's origins: a dry, cold climate. In other words, don't put the cage in a hot, damp room. Keep the room temperature below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and provide good ventilation--but don't put the cage somewhere drafty. Do not place the cage in direct sunlight or near a source of heat.

The best bedding is corncob or white pine shavings. Spread a layer about 2-inches thick on the bottom of the cage, and completely change the litter once each week. Chinchillas tend to choose one spot in the cage to eliminate, allowing observent owners to place a small pan of nonclumping cat litter in one corner.

Author(s): Fredericka Wagner

Critters Home Page: Critter Collection: Chinchilla

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