Chinchillas make enjoyable pets, but they do require very special care. A chinchilla’s digestive system is extremely sensitive and their dietary needs are specific. In the wild, chinchillas eat a lot of roughage, like desert grasses, and cannot handle foods that are too rich or high in fat. Their diet as a pet should be similar.
What to Feed a Pet Chinchilla
- Chinchilla pellets
- Hay
- Fresh Water
- Treats in small amounts
The Main Diet for Chinchillas
Chinchilla pellets should make up the majority of the pets diet. Rabbit food can be substituted if you cannot find chinchilla pellets, but avoid this if possible as the balance of proteins, fat and fiber in rabbit food may not be ideal. Chinchilla pellets can be ordered online if the local pet store does not carry this.
Most chinchillas will not overeat, but it is a good idea to limit the available food just in case. Plus, this way they get fresh pellets and hay everyday. The chinchilla will eat around 2 tablespoons of pellets a day. Try to give food at the same time everyday as chinchillas like routine.
Another dietary essential for chinchillas is hay. Hay that is high in fiber, like Timothy Hay, is best. Bermuda Grass is also good and Alfalfa Hay can be used sparingly as a treat. Hay cubes can be used, but most chinchillas enjoy the loose hay more. Be sure to feed fresh hay daily and throw out any that is smelly or moldy.
A hopper is a good way to serve hay to the chinchilla and some can be tied down to the cage to avoid spills. For pellets, try a heavy ceramic dish. If the animal tips this over, a second hopper can be used instead.
Fresh water is also essential. Using a water bottle, like those made for hamsters and guinea pigs, is the best way to provide water. A bowl is not a good idea as smaller chinchillas may fall in and getting wet can be fatal to a chinchilla. Plus, the bottle reduces spills and messes.
Use Caution When Feeding Treats
Treats can be given to a chinchilla in very, very small amounts. No more than a teaspoon a day is a good guideline. Two raisins, a few sunflowers seeds or a very small apple slice make good treats. Remember that chinchillas are highly sensitive to fatty foods so use treats sparingly and watch for signs of digestive upset like diarrhea or constipation.
Chinchillas are also susceptible to changes in their diet. If a new pet food is given, mix it a little bit at a time with the old food and gradually increase until the animal adjusts. Again, look out for any signs of illness and contact a veterinarian if you suspect a problem.
Chinchillas have a fairly long life span for rodents, about 12-20 years. If you take good care of your pet and feed him properly, your chinchilla will provide years of enjoyment.
Jennifer Zambri-Dickerson - Jenn Zambri-Dickerson works as a freelance writer and photographer and also as a part-time school teacher. She enjoys travel, sports, ...
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