Chinchilla
Breed: Chinchilla
Scientific name: Chinchilla lanigera
Place of Origin: South America (Andes)
Classification: Rodent
Average Price: R1,500 - R3,000 (Permit may be required)
Size Category: small
Avg. Height: 30 cm.
Avg. Weight: 0.4 to 0.6 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 10 to 20 years.
Colours:
Standard grey, beige, white, ebony, violet.
Covering:
fur
Vocalisation level:
moderate
Temprament:
Curious, athletic, and fragile. Can be social if handled from a young age but are often shy.
Trainability:
moderate
Diet type: herbivore
Feeding frequency: Constant access to high-quality timothy hay and specific chinchilla pellets.
Foods to avoid:
Sugary treats, fruits, most vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
Health Concerns:
Prone to heatstroke, dental problems (malocclusion), and respiratory issues from poor ventilation.Recommended Supplements:
Not required if fed a proper diet.Grooming:
Cannot get wet. Requires regular dust baths in special volcanic ash to keep their dense fur clean and free of oils.Exercise:
Highly active and crepuscular (active at dawn/dusk). Requires a multi-level cage and safe playtime outside the cage.Handling:
Have a delicate skeleton and should not be squeezed. Can exhibit ‘fur slip’ (releasing a patch of fur) if handled roughly.Ideal Location:
Requires a climate-controlled indoor environment. Unsuitable for hot or humid areas like coastal KZN without constant air conditioning.Space Requirements:
Requires a large, multi-level cage with solid surfaces.Climate Suitability: cold
Temperature Range: MUST be kept in a cool environment, ideally below 22°C.
Humidity Range: Low humidity is essential to prevent fur/skin issues.