CHINCHILLA 2014

Chinchilla
(Chinchila lanigera)

Chinchillas originate from Chilean Andes where they live in colonies at heights from 800 to 4500 meters above sea level. The breeding of chinchillas has spread to Europe in the middle of the 20^th century. They are of a size of squirrel and also resemble them in their bushy tail. Their fur is most often from light to dark gray colour, white on the belly, but can also be in other colours, like black, white or dark brown. The life span of a chinchilla is from ten to twenty years. Chinchillas are night animals and sleep from dawn to twilight, which is fantastic for a busy family and schoolchildren because chinchillas are awake and ready for play when the family gathers. These animals are among the least demanding home pets; they are intelligent, they do not smell, they love and need to take bath in special sand, which makes cleaning of their cage a simple job. Sand and their love for taking bath can be used to tame them. Actually, if we want chinchilla to go back into the cage we have to offer her sand in a tub in the cage and she will soon come and take a bath. In no case should they bathe in water and it is also not advisable to catch them by the fur since they lose it easily. If we need to catch chinchilla, we embrace her with both hands.
Feeding chinchilla is very simple. They eat mixtures of seeds and pellets or just pellets, which are complete food. However, it is good to give them also hay and from time to time a slice of apple; their special titbit is raisins. Apart from that, they enjoy nibbling twigs of fruit trees as well as dandelion leaves. It should in no case be forgotten to give them fresh water which – especially in summer – should be changed several times a day.
Chinchillas are not skilled like squirrels and should be supervised in their activities. Chinchilla will not jump in your hands, but will always greet you and enjoy when you scratch its little head. Chinchillas differ in character; some are quite and more affectionate and some playful and dominant. Though, they have one in common– if you give them love and attention, you will receive it multifold in return.

Boris Cebović
Small animal breeder