Text Box: Text Box: Chinchilla Text Box: Chinchillas are a small rodent, perhaps best known for their incredibly soft, thick, luxurious fur. In captivity their fur makes them extremely susceptible to overheating. Chinchillas are great pets because they do not have dander and they are odorless. Also because their fur is dense and full of lanolin fleas do not infest them. Dust baths are also a big part of keeping their fur clean, its fun to watch them flip around and roll in their baths. Chinchillas are nocturnal creatures, but you can still play with them during the day. They are curious and active and will run, hop, and ricochet off of walls. The exquisite beauty of the chinchilla's fur, along with it's great personality and irresistible appearance makes this creature a great family pet. Our baby chinchillas are handled daily from two weeks of age. They will be well socialized and ready to be introduced to their new family when ready. Helen's Little Critters Text Box: Chinchilla Care and Facts: Average Lifespan: 15 –20 Years Diet: Feed a high quality chinchilla pellet. Give fresh timothy hay several times a week. Treats should be given sparingly and can include raisins, apples, grapes, carrots and sunflower seeds. Minimum Cage size: Large cage no less than 3’x3’x3’ preferably with multiple levels. Size at Adulthood: Body size about 10-12” and the tail adds about 5” Weight 1-2 pounds Cleaning: Daily dust baths are required to keep their coat clean and healthy. Temperature: Due to their thick coat and extreme sensitivity to heat chinchillas must remain indoors at all times in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees. Text Box: Mosaic Text Box: White Text Box: Beige & Grey Text Box: Ebony Text Box: White Mosaic/Sapphire Text Box: Sapphire Text Box: Black Velvet Text Box: Violet Text Box: Chinchilla Colors Text Box: Frequently Asked Questions: Q:Do they have scent glands or a smell? A: No they do not have scent glands or a smell. Q: Do they require any vaccinations? A: No vaccinations are needed. Q: What is their general personality? A: Curious, accepting of strangers, not very affectionate, does not need a lot of attention Q: How are they with other pets? A: Large animals like dogs may frighten the chinchillas at first but they can cohabitate in the same house with sufficient space to separate other large animals Q: Can I take my chinchilla outside? A: If the temperature is below 70 degrees, and you keep a close eye on your chin, they will enjoy a short adventure in your backyard. Never leave a chin unattended and make sure they stay out of the sun for long periods of time. High temps and the sun may overheat them. Q: Should I get two, so my squirrel wont be lonely? A: Chinchillas enjoy the company of other chinchillas but they do perfectly well by themselves as long as they get attention from you. Q: What is the difference between a chinchilla and a rabbit? A: For one, the chinchilla has a much denser more luxurious coat. They only have babies about once or twice a year, and they eat a specific chinchilla diet. They do hop and have many characteristics of a rabbit but are more exotic and rare. Q: Are there any special concerns or special need for owning a chinchilla? A: Chinchillas require daily dust baths to keep their coat clean and soft and they are extremely sensitive to the heat.