Overview
01
Lifespan
10-15 years (up to 20+ years)
03
Type
Females (does), males (bucks), babies (kits)
02
Weigh
400-600 grams
Living Space
01
Cage
Large, multi-level wire cage with solid bottom and shelves (minimum size: 0.6m x 0.6m x 0.8m)
02
Avoid
Glass tanks, bird cages.
Water & Diet
Primary
Grass-based pellets and unlimited Timothy hay
Pellets
Oxbow Essentials Chinchilla pellets recommended
Treats
Small amounts (2% of diet) of dried, nutrient-dense, plant-based foods like sweet hays, rose hips, and dried leaves
Water
Fresh, constant supply
Avoid
Meat, dairy, high-water fruits, acidic fruits, vegetables, corn
Chews
01
Safe Woods
Fruit tree woods, willow, dogwood (pesticide/insecticide free)
02
Avoid
Woods with pits, sap, salt chews, or licks
Exercise
01
Free Run Time
Supervised, in a chin-proofed room (free of wires, gaps, and hazards)
03
Avoid
Exercise balls
02
Exercise Wheel
Solid, flat surface only
Handling
-
Approach: Gently scoop from the bottom, support hind feet, handle like a bird
-
Avoid: Picking up by the tail, squeezing around ribs
-
Fur-slip: May occur if frightened or roughly handle