Chinchilla Secrets

Chinchilla Secrets
A Comprehensive Pet Owner's Guide

By Jessica Harrison
(Edited by Prabhu Lazarus)
Copyright 2006 Geostar Publishing

All Rights Reserved
This eBook shall not to be copied in any form/ emailed/ distributed, in
part/ full, without the written permission of the Copyright holders.
First Edition: February 2006.
Copyright 2006 Geostar Publishing
All Rights Reserved
DISCLAIMER: This eBook is to be used for education only. Not to be used in lieu of
advice from a licensed veterinarian and/or medical professional.

Tone Of The eBook
C
hinchillas are cute, loving and occasionally mischievous - an
adorable combination. Whoever said that "love is absolutely
wonderful" must have been talking about a chinchilla
relationship. Spend a couple of minutes with one and you will agree that
few creatures can be as appealing.
Truth to tell, raising a chinchilla, is in a way setting the score right for
the extent to which these cute little creatures were hunted for their little
soft pelts. Thanks to the American, Mathias F. Chapman, the animals
were saved from certain extinction.
Chins - as chinchillas are affectionately known - are a runaway favorite
because it is quite easy to raise them. And they are quite handy, generally
well-behaved and don't cost much to maintain.
Even if you didn't know anything about raising these cute little creatures,
this book tells you all. Right from the different types of chins to selecting
a healthy specimen, housing it, feeding it and even taking care of the
health issues - this book is a single-source chin reference manual.
This is an extensively researched book that has answers to questions you
didn't know existed. The approach is structured and simple. It's a must for
the rookie and the veteran alike.

Table of contents
Introduction...............................................................................9
Selection.......................................................................................12
0
Colors.................................................................................13
Choosing a Chin...............................................................21
Checking out the Chin....................................................22
Cost of Chin.....................................................................24
Where to Buy a Chin......................................................25
Behavior......................................................................................26
Chin's Nature...................................................................26
0
Nocturnal Behavior..........................................................26
Vocalizations.....................................................................27
Basic Cry...........................................................................27
Shrill Squeal......................................................................28
Squawk..............................................................................28
Rasping and Snarling.......................................................28
Loud Cries........................................................................28
Chatter..............................................................................28
4
Table of contents
Sneezing...........................................................................29
Mating Call ....................................................................29
Chin and Children.................................................................30
How Chins Interact...............................................................31
With Other Pets.............................................................31
Feeding and Nutrition.........................................................33
What They Eat................................................................34
Commercial Pellets.........................................................34
Hay...................................................................................35
Treats...............................................................................37
General Feeding Pointers................................................38
Water...............................................................................38
Handling....................................................................................39
Grooming.................................................................................41
Shedding..........................................................................42
Fungal Growth...............................................................42
Training & Taming................................................................44
5
Table of contents
Housing.....................................................................................48
Sleeping House...............................................................50
Bedding............................................................................52
One Chin Or Two Chins For You?.............................53
Feeders............................................................................54
Dropping Tray................................................................55
Water Bottle ..................................................................56
Exercise Wheel...............................................................57
Chew Things...................................................................57
Perches and Shelf............................................................58
Cage Maintenance..........................................................58
Health.........................................................................................60
General Chin Health......................................................60
Chin First Aid Kit..........................................................60
Choosing a Veterinarian................................................62
Antibiotics Prescription.................................................63
Diseases and Illness in Chins.........................................64
6
Table of contents
Exercise for Chinchilla........................................................105
Exercise Wheel...............................................................106
Free Run Time...............................................................106
Traveling With Chins..........................................................110
Breeding...................................................................................112
Mating & Reproduction in Chinchillas.......................112
When Are They Ready To Breed?..............................112
Mating Period ..............................................................113
Litter Size.......................................................................113
Introducing Your Chins...............................................114
How Is This Done?........................................................114
Delivery..........................................................................118
Delivery Complications ...............................................120
After Delivery Care for Mommy Chin......................122
After Delivery Care for the Kits.................................122
What I Do With The Male Chin?................................123
Separating the Mother and Kits..................................125
7
Table of contents
Neutering.......................................................................125
Appendix:................................................................................127
Where to Buy Chinchillas.....................................127
Where to Buy Cages and Accessories........................133
Great Chinchilla Names.........................................134
Where to Find a Veterinarian......................................137
Meeting Other Chinchilla Owners....................138
Conclusion..............................................................................139
8
Introduction
J
ust one touch and that's all it takes to know why this animal
was once bred for its "soft, dense" pelt.
What has the body of a rabbit, the large ears of a mouse, and the
tail of a squirrel?
Chinchillas (chins) ofcourse.
When nature was in one of its more generous moods, it made
chins. Not only did it give chins the best of three worlds, it also
gave them infinite variety. Chins come in all the colors from white
to black. And each has its unique personality. There are no two
similar chins whichever way you look at it.
Origination - The Wild Chin
These small furry creatures originated from South America. Their
natural habitat includes the cracks and crevices in the Andes
Mountain.
Discovery and history are always interesting subjects, but not for
the chins. These little fur balls were discovered by the Spanish in
the 1500's. When they conquered the Chinca Indians, probably

Introduction
their richest booty was the pelts of soft-coated creatures.
By 1800s, the chin's fur coat became one of the must-have items in
the wardrobe of European royalty. By the end of 19th century,
chins were going the dinosaur way - towards extinction. But
fortunately, the Chilean government took steps to preserve them
by passing laws to prevent their killing.
Chins found their way to the US through Mathias F. Chapman,
who brought them in 1923. Mathis, a mining engineer took
interest in chins, when a native captured one, and took it to him.
His interest in the Chins led him to seek permission from the
government to capture chins and export them to the US.
The story goes that Chapman had hired 23 men to capture chins
and had managed to get 11 chins in 11 years. This was a feat
considering that the chins were almost extinct. Other explorers
who attempted this did not succeed due to the fact that they
never allowed the chins to adapt to the newer climatic conditions
and they therefore had no success in keeping the chin alive.
These rodents made their debut in Los Angeles in February 1923.

Introduction
Initial pairs of chins cost as much as $3200 per pair - a stark
difference from today's cost of $100-$150. Chin-breeding became
quite successful and by the 1960s, the prices came down to the
rates they are today.

Selection
H
ere are some bookish facts about your chin -
something's you may need to know from a zoological
aspect.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Rodentia
Suborder: Hystricognathi
Infraorder: Caviomorpha
Family: Abrocomidae
There are two species of chinchillas a) C. lanigera and b) C.
brevicaudata. Though it is only the former that are kept as pets, it
may be of interest to know the difference between the two.
The significant difference between the two is in the tail - the
brevicaudata chins are short-tailed while the lanigera are just the
opposite. They are long-tailed.

Selection
Colors
As the chin trade industry grew, the increase in demand for these
small 'n' unique creatures gave rise to a new
trend - color mutations.
The original chin is standard gray, but the
mutations that came about range from beige to
black to white.
When a standard gray is bred with black, beige
or white, half the offspring should be of the same mutant color
and the other half of standard color; this is known as dominant
mutation.
A chin is cute irrespective of its color. But if you are very specific
about your pet's color, then this chapter will help you understand
the different colored chins.
The basic thing you need to understand is that you can identify
the mutations based on the coloring of the body parts. These
color differences are more prominent on their underbelly, ears,
eyes, and paws and tail and are quite distinct from one mutation
Selection
to another.
Gray
Standard Gray
Color/ Tone: light to dark gray
Underbellies: white
Eyes: black
Ears: gray
Paws: black
90% of the chins are standard gray. A chin with black underbelly
will breed a kit that is ebony.
White
Color/Tone: pure white
Underbellies: white
Eyes: black
Ears: gray
Selection
Paws: white
Also known as the Wilson White, this mutation came from a
ranch in North Carolina in 1955 and set a trend in the mutation
of chins.
There are permutations in mutations as well, like the pink-whites,
white-mosaics, white-ebony, and white-violets. Now, these are all
basically white with minor difference in shading.
And remember do not let the white breed with white-pink, white-
mosaic, white and silver-white.
Pink-white/ Beige-mosaic
Color/ Tone: white with tan patches
Eyes: red
Ears: pink
This color mutation is mostly a result of breeding a Wilson White
and beige.
Selection
Silver White
Color/ Tone : white with lots of mixed-gray hair
Underbellies: gray
Eyes: black
Ears: gray
White Violet
Color/Tone: white with violet hue on the shaft
Eyes: black
Ears: white and violet mix
Tail : violet at the base of the tail
White Ebony
Color/Tone: white with black shading or spots
Eyes: black
Ears: ebony
Tail: ebony
Selection
This is a cross between a pure-white and Ebony.
Beige
Hetero Beige
Color/Tone: light cream beige to dark beige
Underbellies: white
Eyes: ruby
Ears: pink
This mutation came about in 1955 in the Oregon ranch of Ned
Jensen. Hetero beiges have one dominant and one recessive gene.
Homo Beige
Color/Tone: lighter than hetero beige
Underbellies: white
Eyes: light red/pink
Homo beiges have two dominant genes. Consider yourself lucky if
you find one of these, as they are not easily available.

Selection
Black
Black Velvet
Color/Tone: dark black fading to light black
Underbellies: white
Eyes: black
Ears: gray to black
Paws: black
The black velvets are also known as Gunning Black because of
their origin from the ranch of Bob Gunning in the state of
Washington. Never mate two black velvets. This will prove lethal
(due to their genetic deficiency)
Brown Velvet
Color/Tone: brown fading to tan
Underbellies: white
Eyes: light red
Ears: pink
Selection
This mutation is mostly a result of black velvet and beige pairing.
Do not mate two brown velvets, as they cannot produce healthy
kits.
Homo Ebony
Color/Tone: shiny solid black
Underbelly: black
Eyes: black
Ears: black
Ebonies are recessive mutations. So, if you want an ebony chin,
you better carry a lot of money in your wallet, as they are rare
and therefore a lot more expensive. Standard gray, white, or beige
chins that have a black underbelly will mostly have an ebony
offspring.
Charcoal
They are similar to ebony, with the only difference being in the
coat shine. The charcoal chin will have a dull black coat compared
to the ebony's shiny black coat.

Selection
Tan Color/Tone: shiny solid brown
Underbelly: brown
Eyes: red
Ears: pink
Paws: pink
They are similar to ebony chins as they are from recessive
mutations and are rare to find. Tans are a result of breeding beige
to ebony.
Violet
Color/Tone: steel blue color
Underbellies: white
Violets are once again a recessive mutation from a ranch in
Rhodesia, Africa. The violets are also known as Sullivan Violet.
This name is because they are also bred at the Loyd Sullivan
ranch in California.
Selection
Sapphire
Color/Tone: dark blue gray
Eyes: black
Ears: gray
No matter what color chins come in, they are charming and that's
for sure!
Choosing a Chin
You can choose a chin based on its health and temperament.
Animals are always scared of humans at first. So, please be careful
and cautious with your actions and
tone. If you are loud or move fast,
they are bound to retreat and you may
go back home without any chin.
Do give the chin time to warm up
to you. You could try scratching behind its ears. Chins love this
show of affection.
You would know that a chin has taken to you if it nibbles your
Selection
finger or sniffs you - because it is its way of showing affection. If
you want to pick it up, you can place one hand under its body
and pick it up by the tail or cup your hands to and pick it up.
However, the former is advised as this ensures that the chin does
not jump off from a height.
If the chin does not squirm and squiggle in your palm, then it
indicates a relative level of comfort. NEVER GRAB A CHIN BY
ITS FUR. This is because chins have a release mechanism whereby
they can shed their fur to free themselves. Because of this, the
chin you pick up could fall from a height and this could prove
fatal.
Checking out the Chin
You need to check for the following while picking your chin.
(These subjects are discussed in detail in the health section).
= Absence of heart murmur
= Check their stools under microscope for parasites
= Clean and clear eyes

Selection
= Aligned teeth
= Healthy fur coat
= Dry, clean nose
= Clean ears
= Oval-shaped, solid droppings
= Clean anus
These are just a few indications of a healthy chin. But, there are
chances that your chin might fall ill later on. However, with
proper care, many "chin related aliments" can be avoided.
Common chin aliments are discussed in detail in the later chapter.

Selection
Cost of chin
A factor you may want to consider is the cost of the chin.
Different colored chins come at different prices.
Color US Price (In US $) UK Price (In US $)

Beige 112 68
Black Ebony 156 166
Black Velvet 135 90
Brown Velvet 135 112
Charcoal 142 120
Gray 79 68
Pink white 107 160
Sapphire 107 120
Violet 173 120
White 165 73
White Mosaic 117 96
Note: The above prices may not be accurate figures, but are
certainly indicative. Besides, there may be price differences
between male and female chins.

Selection
Where to Buy a Chin
Always buy your chin from a breeder. This is because a breeder
would know the background of the chin and would have
abundant chin knowledge. Pet stores stock many other animals
and birds as well, therefore they may not be chin experts.
A good breeder not only specializes in chin information, but also
will also provide you with chin equipment and feed as well. Look
for a pedigree certificate. Most pedigree chin generations range
from generation 1 to generation 5. This certificate will also contain
other details such as the color, date of birth, name of the chin and
the breeder's code. (See the Appendix)

Behavior
C hin’s Nature
Chins are extremely nervous. Strangers, noises or sudden
light agitates them. It is always best to keep them in a
secluded spot; you can see more of this information in the housing
chapter.
Look out and save your head from a bump because chins are
excellent jumpers. They can jump up to 5
feet high. Chins are animals of routine and
find it stressful even if there is a minute
change in what they do every day.
So, do not make too many changes in their
routine: food-wise or habit-wise.
Nocturnal Behavior
Like owls, chins are nocturnal creatures and this means two things:
You must be ready for some late night racket if you want to own a
chin for a pet.
You must be an evening person, i.e., active in the evenings so that
you and your chin can play and bond well with each other
Behavior
Their nocturnal nature extends to their mating habits as well. This is
why many chin owners are surprised to know that their chin is
pregnant.
Vocalizations
Stand by their cage and hear the sounds they make and observe the
actions that follow. Definitely, you cannot
understand all the sounds at one go, but
over a period of time and with a little
experience you can interpret the sounds
your chin makes.
Here are the range of sounds your pet makes and its meanings.
Basic Cry
The basic cry in a chin sounds like a ‘click’; it does not literally
mean crying. Chins use this among themselves to tell each other to
stop doing certain actions or simply go away.
E.g., a mother chin could tell her kit to stop biting her nipple with
this sound.
Behavior
Shrill Squeal
Shrill squeal indicates pain or fear. The volume of this shrill varies
with situations, i.e., it will diminish as the fear or the pain goes
away.
Squawk
The kits squawk when they want to be fed or when they are feeling
insecure. Mothers respond to this call by nibbling and nudging.
Rasping and Snarling
Chins do this when they are angry - mostly over food bowl or
mother teats.
Loud Cries
Chins make cries, which are high pitched, repeatedly when they are
agitated or excited. They could do this a minimum of 15-20 times.
It's an “alert call” that they make when they notice something
suspicious or when they are separated from their companions.
Chatter
This sound is emitted mostly after chins eat or when they grind
Behavior
their teeth. If the chin makes this chattering noise without eating, it
is to let other chins know that it's in a bad mood.
Sneezing
Chins sneeze if there is fine dust in their bath.
Mating Call
There are very minimal chances that you can hear the chin’s mating
call. But if you must know, it sounds like hiccups and it lasts a few
minutes.
Chin and Children
W hen it comes to kids, it is better you do
not let them handle the pet. Chins are
too fast for kids, plus they are too fragile
to be handled by kids.
Always be around to supervise their interactions. A
chin is bound to get scared if a child makes jerky
movements or handles the rodent roughly.

How Chins Interact
We know that man is a social animal.
Now, the question is, are chins social rodents?
In this chapter, we will learn how chins interact and how they
behave within their territories.
In order to build a special bond with your chin, you
need to figure out how chins mix and communicate.
That is exactly what this chapter will deal with.
You will understand two aspects of chin-interaction by the end of
the chapter:
$ With other pets
$ With you
With Other Pets
Usually we face the dilemma of dog vs. cat, and with a chin in your
house it's chins vs. any other animal. Chins do not get along with
other pets such as cats and dogs. So, do not try to get them
acquainted. It would be a bad idea to opt for a cat or dog as a pet if
you have chin and the vice-versa.

How Chins Interact
Caution is always advised when you opt to
have a chin along with other pets. Here you
need to understand the interaction of two
different pets and their compatibility. Cats
may mistake your chin for a furry rat and
make a meal out of it !!!
Even if you think that your pets are getting
along fine, do not leave them unattended.
Always let them mingle under your
supervision and this is especially true in case
of their exercise time.
The best way to ensure that your pets do not cause harm to one
another is, by acquainting them with each other from a young age;
this way they lose their fear and differences and will get along just
fine with each other.

Feeding and Nutrition
C hins eat to live, i.e., their lifespan depends on what they
eat. In their native habitats, Andes, chins are used to
eating plants, grasses and seeds.
Given below is a general guide to foods for your pet. As the
chapter progresses you will get more
specific ideas as to what to feed your chin,
but besides this, you can always apply the
principle of this guide to feed your chin.
Pick food that provides all nutrients. This
is inclusive of water, energy, protein, (amino acids and nitrogen),
essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins.
Food that is labeled “Association of American Feeding Control
Officials” and “Animal Feeding Trials” are considered safe.
Buy branded or recommended products as they are considered
safe.
Select food that has proper proportions of various essential
nutrients. Choose food that is easily digestible by your pet.
Check with your vet for feeding your pet besides the feeding
instruction provided on labels.
What They Eat?
Chins do not have many options when it comes to food, as their
digestive system is extremely delicate. The lifespan of chins depends
on their dietary intake.
A good chinchilla diet consists of four parts:
Pellets
Hay
Treats
Water
Commercial Pellets
The commercial pellets or chin chow have very specific dietary
requirements and this should be given in limited quantity (35 grams
per day, which is roughly 2 tablespoons). The basic ingredients of
these pellets are wheat germ, soybean oil meal, alfalfa meal, oats,
molasses, corn and added vitamins and minerals. Do not try to reuse
the pellets, as they may be contaminated, causing trouble in the

delicate digestive system of the chins.
If chin food is not available near your home, rabbit pellets that do
not contain hormones can serve as a good substitute. However, do
not feed cabbage, corn or lettuce (as you would feed a rabbit).
These vegetables cause gas, which is fatal for the chin’s
gastrointestinal tract.
Hay
Alfalfa and timothy are popular choice of hay for chins.
They are available in loose or cubed form and can be
given in large quantity, as it is and are very good for
their digestive system. Hay provides the necessary fiber
in your chin’s diet. However, they should be free of
chemical sprays and mold.
Give your chin fresh hay, which has been dried and
cured thoroughly. To prevent mold formation, store in dry place.
An adult chinchilla can eat a handful of loose hay or one pressed
cube of hay each day. You can also feed the chin, untreated
Bermuda grass, which helps to clear up any digestive problems.

Other Food
Alfalfa meal
Alfalfa meal is composed of chopped or cut fodder, which is either
sun-cured or hot-air-dried.
Hot-air-dried alfalfa is better as it is cut and then transported for
processing unlike sun-cured alfalfa, which loses lot of nutrients
because it is completely dried out in the sun and then sent for
processing.
Processing of alfalfa
The alfalfa is loaded into a rotating, heated drum dryer. It takes 3-5
minutes to evaporate the moisture. Following this, a pneumatic air
system evacuates the concentrated dry alfalfa into a hammer mill
and the alfalfa is then ground to a uniform particle size, which is
compressed into a pellet.
The pellet needs to be lubricated to pass through a die. It is teamed
for this purpose.
Storing is done in tanks enclosed with nitrogen, which preserves the
vitamins K and E, carotene and xanthophylls from oxidation. The

pellets need to be cooled before storage.
Anti-nutritional factors in alfalfa:
Saponins, tannins and coumestral are natural toxins present in
alfalfa.
Saponins have a bitter taste and might irritate the lining of the
mouth and intestine. Coumestral is an estrogenic substance; this has
certain effects in reproduction.
Tannins inhibit protein digestion.
Treats
Apart from these two staple foods, chins love treats. The treat could
range from an apple, carrot, orange, grape, raisins, nuts or celery.
Do not try to pamper your chin and feed them more, even when
they make doe eyes at you. Everyone knows that such cute chins
are simply irresistible. But if you do so, it could be dangerous for
your chin. chins are known to die from over-eating so restrain
yourself and never ever over-feed your pet. Never make the treat
the main source of nutrition.

General Feeding Pointers
They cannot adapt to change and hence you should becareful
with their eating schedule
When you plan to change their diet, do so by mixing the old
and new food at a half to half ratio. If you do not mix their food,
they stop eating altogether
Keep many chewy toys in the cage so that they can file their
teeth, if their teeth grows long they will stop eating
Check to see that the food is clean, chins may poop or pee in
the food, eating this can prove fatal to their gastro-intestinal tract.
Water
Provide ample fresh water to the chins as, it is a very essential part
of their digestion. Water left in the water bottle forlong periods can
harbor bacteria, so change it everyday.
You must also make proper provision for feeding your chin. There
is more about feeders and water bottles in the 'Housing your Chin
chapter.
Handling
A s you know, chins are very anxious animals and get
scared or become nervous easily. So, always handle
them cautiously.
If you get rough or careless while handling your chin, it could stay
away from you and severe all the
relationship you had painstakingly built.
And it does not end with that. It may take
your chin a very long time to trust you
again. So be very careful.
You can tell the anxiety of your chin by observing its heavy
breathing and squirming in your hand. The defense mechanism of
chins is called fur slip where, it sheds fur in order to release itself
and escape. This is not a good thing as fur slip damages the coat of
the chin and may even prove fatal if the chin falls from a height.
Chins are rarely known to bite in defense. In an agitated condition,
your chin could bark or even urinate on you.
The best way to handle a chin is to keep it close to your body - to
support it - and then enclose it with your forearm. You can also
keep your chin in your “cupped hands” and bring your hands close
Handling
to your body. Do not squeeze or stroke too hard, chins like to be
stroked lightly behind their ears.
The temperament of a chin is inherent. So, when you opt to buy a
chin or breed chins, ensure that the parent
chins have a good temperament because
even with training and taming, an ill-
tempered chin can never be brought under
control.
Keep raisins in hand while handling your chin. It is bound to get
closer and calmer if it knows that there is a treat waiting for it if it
behaves well.
Learn to be slow and cautious with your chin irrespective of the
number of times you have handled it.

Grooming
H ow do you groom your chin?
Grooming a chin is easy because they do not have lice and other
external parasites. To start with, chinchillas should never be bathed!
And their fur should never get wet.
So, how do you clean a chinchilla without water?
Well, to clean your chinchilla you ought to give it a dust bath. It
may seem odd giving a chin a dust bath to clean it. But this dust is
alright. It's not the regular dust. It is
“chinchilla dust” like “blue cloud” and can
be got from any chin pet store.
To bathe your chin, place a layer of dust
in a dust bowl and keep it in the chin's
cage for 5 minutes. Make sure that the dust bowl is big enough for
your chin to roll in.
The dust helps to remove oil and dirt from it healthy. You can dust
bathe your chin twice a week. Never leave the dust bowl in the cage
for long. Remove it after 5 minutes, or else your chin is bound to

Grooming
make its fur dry by bathing often.
They could also tend to poop and pee in the bowl and this is not
hygienic for them or good for their fur.
Dust can be re-used for 2-3 weeks, but do throw it away when the
dust gets clumpy. Summer months are very hot and dry, and makes
your chin's coat dirty very soon. So, chinchillas bathe more often in
this season.
Shedding
Do not get worried if you notice fluff balls in the cage or uneven
fur growth.
This denotes shedding.
Chins shed their fur every 3 months. Their fur grows again,
beginning from the neck. Do not forget to comb your chin to
remove dead fur. By doing this new fur will grow evenly.
Fungal Growth
Even though grooming the chin is a relatively easy task, one
problem remains when it comes to fur care and that is tackling the
fungus. Fungus is air borne and can quickly

Grooming
spread through breeding, sharing dust baths or trays.
This is especially true in the case of a humid climate. Ensure that
there is proper circulation and good lighting to prevent fungal
growth.
You can find out if your chin has fungus if you see patchy hair
revealing the skin as opposed to uneven hair. You can also look for
scabs on skin (due to scratching from skin irritation).
What you can do then is, add a little quantity of any anti-fungal
powder in the dust to prevent fungal growth. It will help to do
away with any remaining fungal germs and prevent the chins from
getting infected again.

Training and Taming
N ever push your chin into a relationship; this will only
have the opposite effect on your pet.
The only way to ensure a friendly relationship with your chin is to
condition it from a young age.
However, it is very normal that your chin is not friendly initially.
Do not be disappointed, it is probably just scared or
anxious.
Training and taming chins is a part of building that
special bond. If you want the best of their attention, talk
to them in the evenings; they are more active and fun
to be around then.
You can also win over your chin with treats like raisins (but never
over-feed them with treats).
Your chin might get scared if you pick it up or take it out of the
cage initially. Be cautious and avoid this. Just remember that it will
start the relationship on a wrong note.
To begin with, simply sit next to the cage and offer treats. Do not
Training and Taming
overdo the treats.
If your chin moves closer to you, try to place your hand inside the
cage; this will encourage your chin to explore. You can draw your
pet to you with a raisin in your palm.
After 2 or 3 days, your chin will be comfortable with your hand, so
allow it to climb all the way to your shoulder. Avoid quick
movements, as your chin could fall down.
Finally, make sure your chin is kept as comfortable as possible and
reward it suitably. Once you have established a relationship with
your pet, then there is no looking back.
Your chin needs at least one hour of your devotion, even though it
is excessively enthusiastic to sit on your lap and play with you all
the time. Chins give you their attention by climbing on you or
running around you while you sit on the floor. Do not let your
chin climb on you while you are standing. Sit down so that your
pet can bond with you. This will also reduce any chances of your
chin falling from a height (which is fatal for a small rodent like the
chin).
Chins also show their affection by nibbling, nuzzling, cuddling and

Training and Taming
more. And soon enough you can go to the supermarket with your
chin in your pocket.
Chins are intelligent; they respond to names and
can be taught basic tricks like 'come here' and 'sit
up'. The power to do this lies in your hand,
actually the raisin in your hand! They are
however rodents of routine; their interaction depends a lot on how
you take care of them. If you upset the feeding and bathing routine,
they may not respond well to your calls.
Whatever you do, just make sure not to let a chin out in the open if
your pet is not used either to you or the surrounding.
Fun and Antics
You really can't cuddle your chin or keep it on your lap or play
fetch with it, but this certainly does not mean chins are not fun.
There can be many instances when you and your chin can have a
great time Like:
Bath time
Your chin is a “circus act” to look at during bath

Training and Taming
times. Watch your pet flip, roll and frolic in a dust bath.
Toys
Chins need as many toys as you can provide them to keep them
from getting bored. Give them small objects that are easy to push
around. Make sure that these objects cannot cause your chin any
injury.
Watch your chin redecorate the cage over and over again by
moving its toys. The toys that you give it should only be a small
wooden block or cardboard piece. In fact, this could also be used as
a chew toy by your chin.
Exercise
Watch your chin go at the wheel. It might be
exercise for it, but it is certainly fun to watch its
quirky movements on the wheel.
Free run time
When you let your chin out in the open in an enclosed room, the
scampering and scurrying can tickle you. You will be amused by the
way it explores the room and goes around in circles discovering
stuff.
Housing
H
ousing your Chinchillas
The chin is a small rodent, but its living space is state-
of-the art. The needs of a chin could blow your mind!!!
So, let us begin with cage location. Then we'll go what needs to be
put inside a chin's cage.
Cage Location
Chins thrive in temperatures of 77 ºF. But temperatures above that
may pose a risk and spells D A N G E R!!!
If the temperature rises above 85 ºF, chins might suffer heat stroke.
Therefore, ensure that you do not place cage by a heater, radiator
or any machine that emits heat. Also, ensure that a chin's cage is
well ventilated.
A sure sign that your chin is uncomfortable is when its ears turn
pink. If the temperature begins to rise, move the cage to a cooler
location. And if that does not help, then turn on the air conditioner
to cool your chin. Do not try to replace an air conditioner with a
fan. As chins do not perspire, a fan gives no relief.
There's no need to panic if you don’t have air conditioner. Place a

Housing
big pan of ice inside the cage and watch your chin snuggle and
snooze off to beat the heat.
If you have tried everything to bring the temperature down but did
not succeed, then you are left with only one option and that is to
let your chin sleep through the heat. It is only if it is awake and
active that it is bound to risk a heat stroke.
Chins don't adapt very well to change. So, make sure you do not
change their location/environment often.
Cage
It is very important that the cage is 'chin-proof'.
Wondering what chin-proof is.
Well, chins have this amazing ability to squeeze through the tiniest
of openings in the cage mesh. Therefore, the mesh-opening gap
should be no more than 1 x 2 inches. When
you have kits, reduce this by half i.e., 1/2 x 1
inch. This is necessary because kits are
better climbers than adults. And they are
inherently naughty. And they will do

Housing
everything possible to squeeze their way out of the cage.
Another aspect of "chin-proof" is that the mesh should be made of
wire, as a chin can chew its way out of plastic mesh. If the flooring
is made of wire, ensure the flooring is made from pine boards.
As for the size of the cage, 24 x 24 x 18 inches is considered good.
A chin can move about comfortably in a cage of this size. Anything
smaller than this will cramp your chin. However, you could always
decide on a bigger cage. The size will of course depend on your
budget and the space you can spare for the cage.
An average cage should cost about $50 or more.
Inside the Cage
A chin's cage is normally equipped with
the following:
Sleeping House
Chins rest well in dark places. The sleeping house protects the chin
from sunlight and draft. Plus, it provides privacy and makes a good
chew toy. If you have kits, they will be well-sheltered inside the
Housing
sleeping house.
You can make a sleeping house out of wood and keep it inside the
cage. The wood should be organic and untreated - regard this as a
rule of thumb while making the sleeping house.
There are certain recommended woods like apple, pear, hazelnut
manzanita, pine (phenol free) and willow,
which are considered safe for this purpose.
And some wood are considered the
absolute no. They are orange, grapefruit,
lemon, wild cherry, plum, walnut and
cedar. These are unsuitable because of their aromatic or poisonous
property.
Regardless of whichever wood you choose, build the house with lots
of love and care. Because it is here that your chin is going to
snuggle and rest comfortably. Also be careful if you are using nails
in the construction of the sleeping house. Nails that stick out of the
wood can hurt your chin.
You could even use a fish bowl for a sleeping house. In fact. this
also adds to the decor of the cage. However if money is a

Housing
constraint, there is always cardboard.
Bedding
Your energetic chin needs to rest after all that darting and dashing
around. So, a nice cozy bed is an absolute necessity.
A chin’s bed is made of wood shavings. The wood that you should
avoid for making the sleeping house, must also be avoided while
making a chin's bed.
These woods are considered dangerous because they contain a
natural aromatic chemical called phenol. Phenols are commonly
used as disinfectants.
Phenols are poisonous, acidic compounds. When inhaled they have a
direct side effect - the liver and respiratory systems are damaged
making them susceptible to infection by microorganism. Other side
effects range from chronic respiratory disease to asthma. Human
beings are also prone to these side effects.
Woods like cherry, apricot, and peach contain cyanogenic
glycosides. In simple words, they release cyanides during digestion.
Wood shavings of any of the other recommended wood will do well.

Housing
Pine is an easily available wood. You can use it if it is untreated and
kiln-dried.
One Chin Or Two Chins For You?
It is not a hard and fast rule that a chin must have a companion,
though it is only common to see owners keep chins as a pair.
The way chins interact with one another depends on how they are
caged and more specifically cage conditions. If you opt for a single
cage for two chins, they better be females, as they are
accommodating. Introduce the two female chins when they are
young, as older female chins might not get along well with each
other. (This also depends on the individual personality of each
chin.)
Caging two male chins will be a
problem, if the cage is not big enough
for both; male chins could fight over
territories and turn aggressive.
However, two male chins will get along
with each other if they are from the
same litter.
Housing
Chins of the opposite sex when caged, get along well with each
other. And if they hit it off, kits (baby chins) are guaranteed.
However, if you keep more than two males chins with a single
female, it is certain that they will fight with each other for the
female.
Whether you are trying to breed two chins or simply house two or
three chins in the same cage, you need to introduce them as
explained earlier.
Introducing refers to giving time so that the two Chins are
acquainted with each other. If you want to bypass the introduction
procedure, opt for chins from the same litter. This will save the
worry about them getting along.
Feeders
If you had all the time in the world, you would hand feed your
chin every time and every day.
But we all know that, this is quite unlikely. Therefore, a feeder is a
better option.
There are plenty of feeders available in the market, but the hopper
Housing
style feeder is best suited for rodents.
Hopper feeders are those that are attached to the outside of the
cage. The chin will stand on its hind legs and take out as many food
pellets as it wants to eat. This will ensure that the chin does not
waste food or urinate in its food.
If you choose to keep a bowl instead, make sure that the bowl is
heavy enough so that your chin does not topple it over. Otherwise,
not only will the food be spilled, but your chin may contaminate
the food and consume it as well.
And this, as you can guess is not in the chin's best interests.
Dropping Tray
Make sure the chin's cage is equipped with a tray for its droppings.
You can choose between cages that have a drop-in style tray or a
pull-out style tray.
Pull-out trays are known for their safety - they cause fewer
accidents and as the cage does not have to be opened – as in the
case of the drop-in trays - there is less chance of drafts. Pull-out
trays are therefore a better option.

Housing
A chin’s cage needs to be clean and hygienic to prevent sickness.
Newspaper has good absorbing properties. As such, it makes cage
cleaning easy. You can simply throw out soiled newspaper and
replace it with fresh paper.
To neutralize bad odor, sprinkling of baking soda in the “pee
corner” will do the job. Pine shavings are great substitute, if you do
not have a wire bottom cage.
Disinfecting the cage every 2 months is recommended. This is
especially true in the case of a sick chin. An unhygienic cage would
complicate its recovery.
Water Bottle
Chinchillas should have been named chewchillas. They chew through
almost everything. You must take great care with each and
everything you place inside the cage. And remember they must be
chew-proof to the extent possible.
The water bottle is no exception to this rule. Do not keep a plastic
water bottle inside the cage. If you do, it is guaranteed that your
chin will chew through it and there will be no water left in the
bottle.
Housing
However, if you do not get anything else other then a plastic bottle,
ensure you protect the bottle in a metal casing or buy a good
quality plastic bottle that cannot be gnawed at.
The bottle can also be fastened to the cage like the feeder.
If you hunt in more shops, you may get a glass bottle which works
great, as it is completely chew proof. Wash these bottles with soap
water and rinse every time you refill.
Exercise Wheel
Wheels inside the cage serve two purposes: entertainment and
exercise. Chins need a minimum of 20 minutes of exercise everyday.
There is more information in chapter 8 about chin exercise and
wheels. The cost of an exercise wheel is about another
$25.
Chew Things
Chins have 20 teeth - 4 incisors and 16 molars. They
constantly need to gnaw to file their growing teeth.
Besides their sleeping house, chins need chew toys to
grind their teeth. Wooden blocks, tree bark and tree

Housing
branches are easily available and can be used for this purpose.
Apply the same precaution in the choice of wood as in the case of
the sleeping house and bedding material.
Want to provide your chin with more options? Then you can place
empty toilet paper rolls, Popsicle sticks, pumice stone or cardboard
inside the cage.
But whatever you place, make sure it is not too small to be ingested
by the chin.
Perches and Shelf
Invest in a shelf or perch inside the cage and watch your chin jump
and jig. As mentioned before chins are very good jumpers, so your
chin will enjoy ledges and perches, plus your chin gets to rest its
feet from wired floors. This is another outlet for your chin to
release its abundant energy.
Remember, the perch is not spared from the chin’s tooth and they
like to gnaw on this as well.
Cage Maintenance
It does not take much to maintain the chin or its cage.

Housing
Following some general rulers and pointers of cage maintenance
ensures that you provide a healthy surrounding for your chin to
live in and help it stay healthy and fit.
The primary aspect of maintenance to be borne in mind is to keep
the cage warm and damp-free. If your chin has peed on the cage
floor and the cage smells of ammonia, it is an indication that the
cage needs to be cleaned.
Other pointers to keep in mind are:
Change water in the bottle everyday
Dispose uneaten food
General cleaning of cage to remove dust and dirt
Disinfecting cage once a week with soap and water
Washing the toys and wheels

Health
G
eneral Chin Health
What follows would give you a very “general idea” of
your pet’s health. As you read on, you will know more
specifically about what can affect your chin and how it ought to be
treated. Now, this is just a very general guideline. Always take your
chin to the vet once you provide the initial treatment that gives
your chin the much wanted immediate relief.
This chapter will give you a good idea of how to identify and
handle a health complication immediately. If the condition is
complicated in nature, do not attempt to medicate or treat the chin
without any prior knowledge of the procedure. Refer the animal to
a good vet who specializes in treatment for rodents.
Chin First Aid Kit
Organize the following items in a box; this makes emergency
treatment easy and fast. Ensure that you understand the use of
every item and treat your chin appropriately. You can judge the
use of these items by studying the treatment for various
diseases/illness.
Vet wrap
Health
Kaopectate
Critical Care
Benebac
Eyedroppers or infant nasal syringe
Cornstarch
Tinactin Foot Powder
Nutrical
Blue Kote
Petromalt
Gauze
Heat pad
Infant formula
Sterile gloves
Clean towel
Sterile scissors
Health
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR CHIN
Life Expectancy 10 - 15 years

Average Weight (grams*) Female 550 - 800
Male 450 - 600
Temperature (ºF) 50 - 75
Heart Rate
(Beats per minute) 100 - 150
Respiratory Rate 40 - 80
(Breaths per minute)
PREGNANCY IN FEMALE CHINS
Length of Pregnancy (days) 105 - 118, average 111
Litter Size can start from 1

and go up 6.
Average is 2 - 3
Weaning Age 6 - 8 weeks
Choosing a Veterinarian
The first requirement that has to be met while choosing a vet is the
experience in treating rodents. Vets who have good knowledge
about guinea pigs and rabbits are the best choice
Your vet should also be accommodating and make house calls if
necessary and should be gentle while handling your chin.

Health
There may be little or no success if you choose a vet who has no
specialization in rodent care. Besides this, you will also need to
check the facilities available at a vet's clinic.
You could also go by the recommendation of other chin owners. It
is a safe bet and you could benefit from their experience.
Overall, here are some basic questions to which you should seek
answers before selecting an appropriate vet for your chin:
Has the vet treated rodents before?
What’s the kind of experience the vet has?
Has the vet done surgery?
What’s the success rate of the surgery?
What anesthesia does the vet use?
Does the facility have equipments for X-ray and other lab needs?
How effective is the emergency care?
How do others recommend the vet?
Antibiotics Prescription
Vets know what antibiotics to prescribe for what ailment. But for
Health
your information we give below a list of antibiotics that are
considered unsafe for chins:
Penicillin
Cephalosporins
Clindamycin
Lincomycin
Erythromycins
As chins have a complex digestive tract, these antibiotics can throw
the pH off balance, leading to bacterial over-growth. Gram-negative
bacteria and clostridia over-growths can lead to diarrhea,
enterotoxaemia, and death.
DISEASES AND ILLNESS IN CHINS
Anorexia/Malocclusion/Slobbers
As emphasized earlier, chin’s teeth needs constant attention.
You must provide chew toys to ensure that they are regularly filed,
else your pets will suffer from dental problems.
Malocclusion is a condition where the tooth over-grows. An oral

Health
examination can diagnose this problem and this includes skull
radiographs to examine the crown surfaces and roots. (Chins may
have to be sedated at times depending on the extent of damage and
pain caused due to this problem.)
Symptoms
Drooling on fur
Slobbering
Inappetance
Loss of fur
Watery eyes
Sores in mouth or abscesses
Food falling out from the mouth as they are unable to chew
Causes
Genetic defect
Excessive growth of molars
Sharp objects trapped in the tooth

Health
Mineral imbalance, especially calcium
Poor dental alignment
Treatment
Clipping affected teeth
Including essential minerals in the diet
Antibiotics for the abscesses
The tooth may have to be extracted if the pain and infection is just
too much. This can be done under sedation. During treatment,
syringe feed your chin as mastication becomes very painful then.
Euthanasia is sometimes recommended for chins under chronic pain.
Prevention
Provide sufficient chew toys like wood or mineral block for the
chinny to constantly file its teeth and ensure that there is ample
roughage in the diet of your chinny.
And do not breed chinny’s with this genetic defect.
Abscesses
Abscesses are infections caused by cuts or other injuries. If they are

Health
not attended to immediately, they may get contaminated.
Causes
Baby chin biting mommy chin while nursing
Sharp projections
Chins fighting with one another
Treatment
Antibiotic therapy for 3 - 5 days
Disinfect the cage thoroughly
Prevention
Remove any sharp projections in the cage that might cause injury
and separate chins that fight with one another.
Bacterial Enteritis (Intestinal Infection)
Chins are know to have a weak stomach and are highly prone to
intestinal problems.
Enteritis is the infection of the digestive tract, where non-digestible
fiber is not fermented.

Health
Examination of the faces by fecal flotation, direct smear and
culture reveals the causal agent.
Causes
Depression
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Partial paralysis
Painful abdomen
Tooth grinding
Possibly bloated abdomen
Crying or moaning
Lethargy
Treatment
Antibiotic therapy
Supportive care
Bacterial supplements like milk-free acidophilus

Health
Anti-diarrhea medicines like Kaopectate or blackberry leaves
Chins with severe infections can be put on IV fluids.
Bloat
This can be easily confused with constipation, as the symptoms are
similar.
Symptoms
Chin is listless and tired
Feels uncomfortable
Has a bloated belly
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Dropping has brownish mucus covering
Causes
Feeding of excessive greens
Feeding un-matured hay
Treatment
Health
Regular exercise
1 ml of milpar liquid. Give this thrice every day until you’re
chinny’s health improves.
Prevention
Regular exercise
Feed only the well-matured hay
Broken or Frozen Tails
Symptoms
Tail looks jagged
Tail is cut half way
Causes
Rough handling
Door closed on the tail
Tail breaks if the chin tries to escape through cage wires
Cold weather
Treatment
Health
Separate this chin from the other chins
Apply antibiotic to prevent infection
Broken Teeth
Causes
Jumping or falling hard on a surface
Chins sometimes break their teeth while trying to free themselves
from wire mesh
Treatment
File the broken tooth to remove jagged edges
Give a liquid or “soft diet” till the chin can chew normally
Prevention
Do not keep the chin at heights from where they can fall and hurt
themselves.
Bumble Foot
This is a condition where the foot of the chin becomes red and
swollen. It is the “keratinized tissue” that makes walking painful for
your chin. Remember that you need to get this condition treated as
Health
soon as possible, else the infection will spread to the bones and the
blood stream.
Symptoms
Sore cracked feet
Bleeding
Foot is red and swollen
Causes
The causal agent, Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that enters the
foot that has cuts or abrasions caused due to the wire flooring in
the cage.
Treatment
Antibiotics must be given
Antiseptic/disinfectant like Nolvasan solution can be used to clean
bumbles. Blue Kote or purple spray for skin infections can be used
once a day. Bedding in the cage should be changed.
Treatment will yield results only in 2 months, though the signs of
healing will show up in 2 weeks.

Health
Prevention
Ensure there are perches for your chin to rest on when it is tired
from scampering.
Insert a wooden board for flooring
Clean the cage and bedding to prevent harboring of bacteria.
Coccidiosis
This is also a protozoan like Giardia that affects the intestine of the
chin, more specifically the lymph system.
Causes
Transmitted through fecal-oral route
Water
Poor immune system
Poor cage sanitation
Host insects that get the infection and pass it on to the chin
Symptoms
Weight loss
Health
Increased or decreased appetite
Severe diarrhea
Dehydration
Occasionally there is hidden bleeding
Treatment
Oral medications such as Sulfonamides
Foods with high nutritional value
Plenty of fluids
Cage to be sterilized
Boil food containers and water bottles every day
Prevention
Disinfecting the cage and accessories is important
Ensure you keep control of insects inside and near the cage
Constipation
Constipation can just happen and in most cases it is more
uncomfortable for the chin rather than life threatening.

Health
Symptoms
Chin may be uncomfortable
Stretch up on hind legs
Shows lack of appetite
Small and thin dropping seen
Causes
Excess treats
Pregnancy
Lack of exercise
Treatment
In some not so serious conditions, it can be treated with raisins and
prunes
Syrup of figs - one teaspoon
1 ml of liquid paraffin per day
Prevention
Regular exercise
Health
1 - 2 tablespoons of fresh pellets per day
Convulsions/Seizures
Chins are known to have seizures, fits or convulsions, and this
happens without any specific symptoms at times.
Symptoms
Chin appears lifeless
Limp or temporary inability to move
Muscle spasms/tremors
Contortions
Causes
Constipation
Female chin getting pregnant at old age
Heat exhaustion
Starvation
Lack of minerals (calcium or vitamins)
Excess salt
Health
Too much of exercise
Toxin infection
Treatment
In case of deficiency, add vitamin and mineral drops to water.
Reduce intake of salt
Feed the chin with cuttlefish to increase calcium content
To balance out salt content, give a mix of 70% cranberry juice and
30% water for 3 days.
Prevention
Never exercise your chin for more than 20 minutes
Give fresh food
Don’t treat it too often
Cryptosporidia
Causes
A protozoan from the Coccidia group, which inhabits the
epithelium of the digestive system causing lesions and cuts in the

Health
lining.
This is a very infectious protozoan; the vet who is examining the
fecal sample must destroy the cyst in formalin before checking
under the microscope as infection can pass to humans very easily.
Symptoms
Lack of absorption
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Dehydration
Blood in stools
Treatment
This is effective only to prevent secondary infections. Fluids need to
be administered, as there will be a case of dehydration. Supportive
care should be given.
Prevention
Sterilize cages and utensils/food dishes thoroughly
Boil water for 20 minutes to kill germs

Health
Cuts/Abrasions
Chins tend to fight and give a scar or two to one another. Usually,
these scars are nothing much to worry about. They are fatal only if
the bite or the cut is caused by some other animal.
Treatment
Bath in saline solution
Avoid dust baths till the wound has healed and dried out.
Sterzac powder will help prevent any infection while it heals.
Prevention
Separate chins that don’t get along with each other.
Dermatophytosis/Ringworm
If you breed a chin for pelt, then this is a very serious issue as the
pelts you get will be damaged.
Symptoms
Hair loss
Scabby red lesions on the nose, feet, and around the eyes
Health
Crust flaky skin around eyes and ears
Chins keep scratching a lot
Causes
Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum canis are the
typical agents of ringworm.
Infection from other pets
Treatment
Administer Grisofulvin as prescribed by your chin’s vet
Dust bath with 1 tablespoon of Captan added
Oral treatment of Itraconazole (5mg/kg), dosage: one per day
Anti-fungal powder
Diarrhea
Chins are prone to have diarrhea, and this again is due to their
sensitive intestinal tract. In severe cases, starve the chin for 12 hours
and give it only water.
You need to keep track of how often your chinny has this problem,
because a regular condition of diarrhea reflects parasite attacks like

Health
Giardia or Coccidia
If your animal has Giardia, then ask for Albendozol, which kills the
parasite in 3 days of the treatment. Your chin may suffer loss of
appetite, but this will fix itself and there is nothing much to worry
about.
You have to take diarrhea seriously as persistent diarrhea can lead
to prolapsed rectum.
Symptoms
Chin is weak
Loose droppings
Weight loss
Dehydration
In severe cases, droppings will be covered in mucus or blood
Causes
Excessive treats like raisins or prunes
Infections like bacterial, protozoan or parasitic
Change in diet (excessive green, low fiber content)

Health
Old hay or water
Weaning of food not done properly
Diarrhea may be bacterial, or dietary in origin
Stress (new home or environment or being pregnant/lactating)
Giardia, Coccidia or other parasitic infestations
Algae in drinking water
Treatment
Well-done or even burnt toast or shredded wheat cereal
Fresh pellets and water for 24 hrs
No hay or treats
Kaolin liquid (1 - 3 ml) can be given for 2 days
Children’s Cherry Kaoepectate (kaopectate elsewhere in the
article check ) 1 ml/cc for 1 - 2 days
A 50/50 mix of unsweetened cranberry or apple juice with
water will help to prevent dehydration.
Prevention
Health
Fresh balanced diet (vitamin and mineral blocks as supplements)
Moderate treats
Eye Injuries and infection
Causes
Fight between chins and scratching
Splinter or some foreign body in the eye
A symptom of another ailment
Symptoms
One or both eyes are sticky
Swollen
Milky discharge
Matted fur around the eyes
Eyes are shut
Treatment
Apply antibiotic ointment in the eye twice a day.
Remove the dust bath for a week.

Health
Prevention
Ensure that there are no foreign objects in the cage.
If chins are known to fight, train them to get under control or
isolate them.
Fractures/broken Bones
It is common among chins to fracture their tibia - a long straight
bone in the leg with soft tissue covering. The fracture may be short
spiral or transverse.
Causes
Fall on a hard surface
Struck by a falling object
Leg caught and twisted between cage
Rough handling
Treatment
Essentially, the only treatment possible is strict cage rest.
You have to isolate the chin.

Health
Apply a collar to prevent chewing on the broken area.
Make sure you don’t exercise the chin.
Ensure that your chin gets 4 weeks of solid rest.
Soft padded bandages and lateral splints can be tried, but they don’t
provide adequate stabilization. However, “KE apparatus” has better
success for forelimb fractures.
Fur Fungus
Symptoms
Loss of hair on nose, eyes and genitals
Withdrawn behavior
Loss of appetite
Causes
Damp or humid atmosphere
Damp hay releasing spores causing infestation
Treatment
Isolation, if you have more than one chin

Health
Clean cage
Sterilize baths, food bowls and water bottles
Add anti-fungal powder or athlete’s foot powder in the bath
Prevention
Clean cages regularly
Only give fresh hay
Check for dampness in debris
Add 1 tablespoon of athlete foot powder to all baths
Fur Slip
Chins are very anxious rodents. Therefore, one has to be very
gentle while handling a chin. A nervous chin will try to escape. If
handled roughly, it escapes by releasing patches of fur thereby
ruining its pelt.
Symptom
Patchy fur
Causes
Health
Rough handling
Anxiety in chin
Prevention
Handle chin gently.
Ensure chin is supported well in hand, don’t let it suspend from
hand.
Fur Chewing/Barbering
Chins have a tendency to chew on their own fur coat and this is
called barbering.
Symptom
Patchy fur
Causes
Boredom
Dirty fur
Dietary imbalances
Hereditary factors
Health
Stress or anxiety
Treatment
Provide ample chew toys.
Provide ample exercise time.
Create a calm environment for your pet.
Spray Variton on chin fur; this tastes real yucky and it prevents the
chin from chewing.
Gastrointestinal Disorder
Chins have a long gastrointestinal tract as they are hindgut
fermenters. Their stomach and cecum are large and often full of
food. Their diet consists of high fiber low in energy content.
Any disruption in this system could result in many problems as
given below:
Anorexia
Diarrhea
Intussusceptions (telescoping of intestines)

Health
Mucous enteritis
Ileus
Bloat
Rectal prolapse
Salmonella
Listeria monocytogenes
Coccidian
Giardia
Cryptosporidiosis
Giardia
Giardia is a common intestinal ailment in chins. This is caused by
Giardia - the protozoan - which clings to the surface of intestinal
mucosa in the small intestine. Fresh fecal smear must be done
routinely to check for this internal parasite.
Causes
Transmitted through water

Health
Through fecal matter - like when dirty paws or hands get in the
food
Humans can pass the germs, if they handle food with unclean hands.
Symptoms
Increased or decreased appetite
Diarrhea or constipation
Wet stools
Treatment
Fenbendazole
Give plenty of fluids
Feed high-energy foods
Clean the cage daily
Prevention
Disinfect the cage routinely.
Ensure that you wash you hands before feeding the chin.
Hair balls/Trichobezoar
Health
This condition happens if your chin swallows hair.
Unlike other animals, chins cannot vomit the hairball. So, this
hairball will accumulate in the intestine causing indigestion and
intestine-related problems.
Causes
Hair in the food
Chins lick and groom themselves a lot
Symptoms
Decrease in appetite
Weight loss
Constipation
Treatment
High fiber stimulates motility of the gastrointestinal tract and
sustains digestion
Exercise also helps in gastrointestinal motility and digestion
Prevention
Health
Regular grooming. You can brush your chin and clear the hair it
has shed. This way, it will not swallow hair while licking itself.
Heart murmurs
This happens when the heart muscle or valve is weak and allows the
blood to flow backward as well as forward or does not “pump
properly”.
Symptoms
Only a vet can diagnose heart murmurs
Stroke
Paralysis
Treatment
There is no specific treatment. A chin with this illness is better off
euthanized as conditions become worse and difficult for it.
Prevention
Do not breed chins with this condition, as it is genetically acquired
in some cases.
Health
Heart Problem/Dilated Cardiomyopathy
This heart conditions in chins intrigues us as chins are to known to
die suddenly without any symptoms.
There is not much research material available on this condition. The
only fact that has been gathered is that heart murmurs may be
present in early life, but per se there are no other symptoms to
indicate this illness.
Heat Stroke
As mentioned before, chins cannot stand temperatures above 77 ºF.
A heat stroke gets them when they are exposed to higher
temperatures and this proves fatal in most instances.
Symptoms
Chins lying on the side
Panting
Lethargy
The body is warm or hot
Damp fur
Health
Advanced cases: bloody discharge and/or bluish color around
mouth
Causes
Rise in temperature
Poor ventilation
Direct sunlight
Treatment
Keeping ice inside the cage
Applying rubbing alcohol to their footpads
Spray cool water on your chin
Air-condition to bring room temperature down
Prevention
Keep the cage in a cool location
Keep the cage away from radiators and other warm machines
Incontinence
Incontinence is rare in chinchillas. It is a condition where the chins

Health
always trickle on themselves while urinating, thus never having a
dry coat.
This may lead to scalding of skin due to repeated exposure of the
skin to urine.
Symptoms
Chin urinates on himself
Staining rear end or belly
Scalding of skin
Causes
Genetic deformity of the urinary system
Infections like cystitis or bladder stones
Urinary tract infection
Treatment
Antibiotics like Bay trill are used. In extreme cases, Hibiscrub
diluted with warm water can be used to clean the affected area.
Sudocrem can be applied to sooth any urine scald.
Prevention
Health
Keep cage clean
Regal diet
Careful breeding
LACK OF APPETITE
Usually, this serves as symptoms for other diseases or illness.
Therefore, treatment for the diagnosed illness must be administered.
But if no specific illness has been diagnosed, you may follow the
treatment given below. Try a combination of any of the two and
keep track of the increase in appetite.
Treatments
Supply Vitamin C, which stimulates appetite. You can mix 3 drops
of Abidec vitamins in water.
A teaspoon of natural oatmeal thrice a week will increase bulk in
the food.
Another food element is wheat germ; this adds more calories in the
diet. It should be high in protein and folic acid.
Vitamin B12 also increases appetite to a large extent.

Health
Listeriosis
This intestinal infection can be diagnosed through bacterial culture
test.
Chins that recover from this infection may be carriers. Therefore, it
is advised that you do not breed them.
Cause
Listeriosis is caused by small, gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria
called Listeria monocytogenes
Symptoms
Anorexia
Depression
Weight loss
Constipation or diarrhea
Pain in the stomach
Circling and convulsions are more fatal signs as chin exhibiting these
signs die.
Health
Treatment In this case, prevention is better
Than cure as chins are not known to survive once clinical symptoms
are visible.
Attempted treatment can be prophylactic antibiotics
(Chloramphenicol or Oxytetracycline)
Prevention
Hygiene should be maintained at all levels: cages, water bottles and
sand baths.
Euthanize infected chinchillas to prevent the spread of infection.
Penile hair ring/Paraphimosis
This condition is prevalent only in male chins where the fur grows
under the sheath of the penis. The hair wraps itself tightly, thereby
cutting of the blood circulation to the penis. Chins may die due to
this as blood poisoning happens if not attended to immediately.
Symptoms
Chin looks uncomfortable
Is lethargic
Health
Penis sticking out
Swelling around the penis
Difficulty in urinating
Red genitals
Causes
Male chin trying to mate with an unwilling female
Male chin trying to mate too early
Treatment
Pull the sheath backward very gently and clip it with a small
scissors. Be extremely careful so as to not to damage the organ at
the root. Lubricate the area with water once you have finished, this
will make it easier for the penis to retract back.
Prevention
Be cautious during breeding season.
Remove female chin during treatment or if this condition occurs
repeatedly.
Health
Pneumonia/Respiratory Infection
Symptoms
Discharge from the eyes and nose
Loss of appetite
Rough hair coat
Wheezing
Chin is lethargic
Sneezing
Chest pains indicated by hunchback-like stance
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Inflammation of lungs
Causes
Bacteria such as Bordatella, Pasteurella, Stretococcus check and
Pseudomonas
Damp housing
Health
Cold weather
Poor ventilation
Drafts
Stress
Treatment
Supportive care
Antibiotics
Environmental stress should be reduced
Keep the cage warm and dry.
Prevention
Keep away from infected chins.
Keep the cage in a warm place.
Prolapsed Rectum/Intussusceptions
Causes
If the chin exerts pressure while excreting, it can lead to interloping
of the rectum - in a few cases even the volvulus of the small

Health
intestine gets interloped.
This may happen if the chin has a case of diarrhea or constipation.
Symptoms
Chin keeps groaning in pain
Looks uncomfortable
Treatment
Vets mostly put most of the chins to sleep as this condition cannot
be rectified. Surgery is not possible as their intestine is very thin
and they may not respond well to surgery.
Spurs
Spurs is an osteoarthritis condition in which bony growths project
outward from the ends of a bone in a joint.
Causes
Genetic makeup
Sharp object(s) between teeth
Lack of gnawing material

Health
Incorrect jaw alignment
Symptoms
Change in eating habits
Excessive drooling
Diarrhea
Watery eye or eyes
Pawing food
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Treatment
Tooth trimming or burring
Prevention
Keep trimming the tooth depending on its growth.
Provide ample chew toys for your chin.
Causes
Torn Ears or skin

Health
Fights
Squeezing through mesh
Treatment
Clip torn areas and wash with water and disinfectant
Prevention
Separate the fighting chins.
Opt to keep chins of the same herd.
Ensure that the wires of the cage are not too wide for your chin to
squeeze through.
Exercise for Chinchilla
C hins are very energetic and need ample exercise. If your
chin’s cage does not have enough space then, you will
have one grumpy looking pet. Exercise helps
relieve your chin’s boredom. A bored chin
will take to fur biting or fight with the
other chins in the cage. So, don’t forget to
keep an exercise wheel inside the cage.
Another aspect to consider is that, if you keep your chin caged for
too long and then set your pet free, it is bound to make a great
escape!!!
Be careful not to get your fingers bitten by your chin for they
exercise their teeth too - and that is by constantly chewing on wood
and anything that they can find near them. So to save your fingers,
keep some chewy toys in the cage. Always bear in mind that chins
chew to file their teeth, which grow constantly.
A chin needs to exercise to remain healthy. Exercise prevents
constipation and many more illness but nevertheless, remember to
limit the time of exercise to only 20 minutes. This is because a chin
can over-work itself to exhaustion and this may lead to health

complications such as heat stroke.
Exercise Wheel
The wheel must be big enough for the chin to move freely and the
mesh should not be too loose as, their digits could get caught in the
gaps. Ensure that the wheel has a stable base and is squeak-free; else,
the wheel will shake and rattle when your
chin runs. You can also secure the wheel
by attaching one side of the wheel to the
cage; this creates space in the cage as well.
You may get dizzy if you see your chin go
at the wheel.
Your chin has loads of fun exercising!!!
As for a kit, well it cannot use the wheel. So, remove the wheel
because your curious little kit could end up being injured.
Free Run Time
If the cage does not have enough space for a wheel, identifya chin-
safe area in your house and let your chin out so that it may
scamper and scurry to vent its energy.

Chin’s safety means four things:
No possible escape holes
No electrical cords
No dangerous heights
No items on the ground that is valuable - to you - or unsafe
for the chin. It is a guarantee that your chin will chew through
anything it sees. Chin is like a termite, the only difference being
that you'll love this termite.
No other animals in the room
A chin literally memorizes its surrounding and that is why it can
scamper and scuttle without bumping into walls. And that is exactly
why it is very important that your chin gets its exercise in
relatively familiar and comfortable surroundings. Do not let your
chin into unfamiliar surroundings as it is likely to hurt itself.
This is also a great time for bonding between you and your chin.
Just sit around on the floor and watch your pet scamper around
you. Even if you have an exercise wheel inside the cage, do let your
chin out at least thrice a week to provide variety. This again reduces
stress in your chin and is good for its health.
How do I catch a chinchilla after I release it?
Chins consider their cage as their home. Do not get vexed trying to
catch your chin - they usually return to the cage all by themselves
once they are exhausted or bored of playing.
Your chin will be troublesome if you don’t release it often, and then
it will want to hold onto that freedom a lot longer.
If your chin shows no signs of going back to the cage, you can try
the following tricks:
Make your chin climb your arm and then walk to the cage and
put it in
Trick it to the cage with a trail of raisins.
Place a dust bath in its cage. Your chin cannot resist a dust
bath and will go to it as soon as it spots one.
Place a dust bath in its cage. Your chin cannot resist a dust
bath and will go to it and soon as it spots one.
The last option is chase it and scoop it up or lift it by the tail.

This will not hurt your chin. Do it carefully, but it is better if you
avoid this method.

Traveling With Chins
A
s emphasized before, chins are prone to stress very
easily. Stress induced by environment can prove fatal to
the chin, as many health complications occur due to
environment related stress.
If you must travel, have someone take care of the chin while you
are away. A friend, relative or a vet who has knowledge about chin
care or has some amount of experience taking care of pets will be
the ideal person.
If your journeys extend beyond 2 days, move the chin to a pet-
sitter’s house, and ensure you provide the caretaker with all the
essential chin requirements, like pellets, hay, bottles etc.
If your chin has any specific allergies or medical history, make it a
point to tell the caretaker.
And last but not the least; do not forget to give the vet’s number to
the pet-sitter.
It is absolutely necessary that you must try to recreate a very
comfortable environment for your chin. Even otherwise your pet is
prone to stress because of the relocation. Ensure that your chin
does not get too agitated with the new place.

Traveling With Chins
If you are set on traveling with your chin or relocating, you will
have to make the following arrangements before traveling, and they
are:
Organize documents such as license, health certificate and
medical prescriptions if any
You will have to carry the chin’s cage and toys; a new
environment will be very stressful
Take the cage and toys the chin is familiar with
Ensure you are carrying sufficient food
While traveling, secure your chin and make sure it cannot
escape
Use a rabbit or ferret leash
Line the cage with newspaper, as wood shavings are not
advisable while traveling
While relocating, one important consideration is the
temperature of the new place. If it does not suit your chin,
consider putting your chin up for adoption rather than taking
it to an unsuitable environment.
Breeding
M ating & Reproduction in Chinchillas
If your chin is cute, the kit is cuter.
Baby chinchillas are called kits. Chins are bred for two purposes,
one is for their soft pelt and the other is to
be kept as pets. Irrespective of what they
are bred for, be ready to provide the kits a
good home.
Do not attempt to breed your chins if you
are not entirely aware of the responsibility of having kits. It is just
as tough as bringing a human baby into the world.
When Are They Ready To Breed?
A male chin can impregnate by 4-5 months and the female chin can
become pregnant by 5-8 months. This only concerns their biological
clock. DO NOT LET YOUR CHIN MATE BEFORE ONE YEAR AS
THEY ARE NOT COMPLETELY MATURE. If they mate, the kits in
the litter may be of poor quality as they will be weak. The female
chin is also at risk as she may die during the delivery because she is
Breeding
too young to litter.
Interbreeding in chins is a no. Therefore, separate the chins and kits
to avoid this problem.
Mating Period
They can breed anytime of the year as the female chin comes to
heat every 29-35 days.
Litter Size
The mother chinchillas average a litter of two
though the range can extend up to four. The
female chin can become pregnant immediately
after - delivery. In all, chins can litter more than
3-4 times a year. However, this is not healthy for
your chin. To prevent health complications, the female
chin should not litter more than two times in a year. Isolate your
female chin from the male chin after two litters.
It is not easy to get the chins to breed; they are fussy when it comes
to picking partners. You have to introduce your chins and if you
are lucky, you will have your kits.

Breeding
Introducing Your Chins
Chins are like humans when it comes to compatibility. Like dating in
humans, chins must be introduced to each other, and this is because
chins are territorial.
How Is This Done?
This is done by placing the male and female cages beside each other
for a week. Each chin has its own scent. So, when they date chins
get acquainted with each other’s scents.
You can also keep one chin in a small cage and place this cage in
the bigger one for them to be acquainted. This procedure can be
followed for introducing chins otherwise too. Do not try to breed
your chin without proper introduction. They will scratch each
other’s eyes out.
Following this, you can place the male in the female’s cage, but
monitor their behavior for they might fight causing injury or even
death.
If they do not fight, then there are not many reasons for worry.
The male initially explores the cage and chews on the treats. The
Breeding
female is anxious about the new male in her cage.
It is only later that the male chin recognizes the female and when he
does, the pair has fun playing, chasing games and nibbling each
other.
You need to monitor these chins all the same; this is to make sure
that they do not suddenly turn hostile to each other.
Chins are known to reject each other too.
There are two techniques one can adapt when chins
reject each other. One is to trap one of them in a
container and remove the chin from the cage. The
other is to remove them by hand wearing a garden
glove so that they do not scratch you.
It is ok to try to reintroduce the chins later. And if the attempt
does not work beyond 6 months, opt to replace the aggressive chin
or reconsider the want for kits.
If you know, you want kits and do not want to go through the
routine of introduction, buy chins in pairs, this way they are
already acquainted with each other.

Breeding
How the female chins get pregnant?
The male chin mounts the female from behind; it lasts only a few
seconds to impregnate the female chin. Following this the male
inserts a waxy white plug into the female. This is done to hold the
sperm inside thus increasing the chances of the female becoming
pregnant.
How do you know your female chin is pregnant and what to do
then?
In general, you can assume that your chin will become pregnant
when you house the pair after proper introduction. But if you
house them all year long, it is hard to tell when your female chin is
pregnant. This is due to the fact that there are not too many sure
signs of pregnancy. The fact that they mate during night must also
not be forgotten.
Remember chins are nocturnal creatures. So, do not be surprised or
shocked to find kits in the cage one fine morning.
The only certain sign that your chin could be pregnant is the white
wax like substance inserted while mating. This is called the estrus
plug and finding it is like searching for a needle in a haystack. (It is

Breeding
hard to spot the ½ - 1 inch long wax among wood shavings).
However, if you do find it, count down to 111 days. This is the
gestation period before the kits are born.
If you do not have any experience with pregnant chins, do not try
to tell by squeezing the tummy. This may cause abortion.
Other signs indicating that your chin may be pregnant are:
If your female chin does not eat well. When she is pregnant,
she eats 2-4 tablespoons of food a day and a handful of hay
If she suddenly start sleeping in unusual positions
Refuses to play in the dust
Sudden loss of weight then followed by a steady gain in weight
These are not very certain signs of pregnancy; your chin may
exhibit them due to some illness as well.
In case you are one hundred percent sure that your chin is
pregnant, try not to handle her. You need not be worried about
taking special care of your chin when she is pregnant as she is quite
capable of doing it herself. She will give birth and clean herself. But
Breeding
if you suspect that your chin has developed complications, do not
hesitate to take her to the vet.
Preparing the Cage for the Kits
As mentioned in the housing chapter, you need to reduce the
wire meshing to 1/2 x 1 inch in dimension, because kits are good
climbers and can squeeze out more easily than adults. So, doubly
check your wire-mesh cage when your chin is pregnant or when the
kit is born.
Another aspect you should consider regarding the cage is the
cage floor, place cardboard on it or carpet it. This will ensure that
the kit’s leg will not be entangled the wire and cause injury.
Cut access to heights inside the cage, kits have no idea about
heights. Climbing heights will prove fatal to their delicate organs if
they fall.
Remove the exercise wheel and other items inside the cage.
These can injure the kit.
Delivery
Delivering a baby is a miracle and a painful process. The chin grunts

Breeding
and groans standing on her hind legs during delivery. Labor lasts
for about 30 minutes but this again depends on the number of kits
being born.
There is little loss of blood during delivery. She will lick and clean
the kit and herself after she delivers a kit. Kits needs to be cleaned
to remove the mucous and make them warm as well; else, they will
die from hypothermia. If female chin has more babies inside her,
she will deliver it after she cleans the first kit.
If your chin has delivered many kits, she may be exhausted and
cannot attend to each and every kit. You can pitch in by drying the
kits else the kit may die.
If babies are found to be strong and healthy but still very wet, a
quick brisk rubbing with a soft towel will save time in drying and
cut the chances of the baby getting chilled.
If the babies are found wet and cold, or even if they appear dead or
stiff, you can still do wonders by quickly immersing them up to
their nose in very hot water and massaging them briskly. Press your
thumb into their abdomen and arch the back by bringing your
index and little finger to a closing position towards the thumb. This
Breeding
action will pump the heavy mucous out of the baby’s lungs.
Following this, blow quickly and hard into the baby’s mouth to
expand the lungs. If the kit gasps dry it completely and then warm
it up.
If the kit still does not gasp, give it your last shot with 1 - 2 drops of
caffeine, adrenalin or other cardiac stimulants (injected directly into
the lung cavity).
A small cylinder of oxygen is expensive. But this can work wonders.
Just be sure you do not use it near a flame.
The cage should be covered to prevent draft. The babies and their
mother could also use some quite and dark environment to rest.
As the gestation period is long, kits are fully developed at birth.
They can open their eyes as soon as they are born and they are
fully furred and teethed as well. Kits can start moving within few
hours of birth.
Delivery Complications
You need to know about the delivery complications in advance, as it
is better to be prepared than sorry. Have a good idea of these

Breeding
complications irrespective of whether your chin is pregnant or not.
And if she does get pregnant you are all ready to handle an
emergency.
In case of a complication, only a vet is qualified to know what to do
next. Your preparation ends with identifying the complications and
attending to your chin until the vet can take it from there.
If you know that your chin is due for delivery anytime now, then
having a vet around is recommended. Or else, call for the vet
immediately, if you observe any of the following:
If your chin takes more than 30 minutes to deliver one kit, it
indicates prolonged labor
If you see fresh blood. There is chance that your chin has
ruptured a blood vessel
Foul smelling delivery indicates stillbirth
If your kit is not breathing, it means it has suffocated
Some of these symptoms occur during the delivery and some after.
There is one sad part to the story and that is, if your female chin
has a miscarriage, she may become sterile, as the fetus is mostly

Breeding
absorbed into the body.
After-Delivery Care for Mommy Chin
The mother loses a lot of vitamins. So, you can replenish it
with cranberry juice mixed in water
Do not bathe the mother chinchilla, this is because her vaginal
opening should heal and it may cause problems while nursing
the kits
Handle the mommy chin carefully
Stock plenty of hay and pellets, she needs the nutrition to feed
her babies
Add supplement foods such as Vitamin C and calcium
Take her out of the cage. As the wheel cannot be kept inside
the cage, you need to let her out
After Delivery-Care for the Kits
Mommy chin will not object if you handle
her kit(s) gently. Once the kit is born you
could help mommy chin by keeping track

Breeding
of the kit’s growth.
The baby chin would feel light as a feather as it weighs only 25 - 60
grams. You know, your kit is growing steadily if it gains 2-4 grams
a day. You need to do this to make sure that your kit is getting its
supplement because sometimes the mother cannot lactate. If your
kit is not getting enough nourishment, provide the supplement
yourself. This would also help you and the kit to develop a bond
and the kit will develop into a social chin. Chin eats the afterbirth as
this provides nutrition for the kits.
The supplement you give the kit can be a combination of Vitamin
D, milk and dry baby cereal. You can make the mix lukewarm and
feed the kit with a dropper. NEVER EVER, force the milk down.
The kit should suckle the milk on its own; else the milk may go into
its lung. If this ever happens, hold the kit upside down with your
palm and shake it gently to let the liquid out. Ensure that all the
liquid is out and then wipe its nose.
You do not have to worry about bathing kits; they usually dust
bathe in 2 weeks by themselves.
What I do With the Male Chin?

Breeding
It is considered safe to keep the male chin inside the cage, as he is
not known to harm the kit. However, if you do not want a case of
breed back, it is best to move him to another cage.
Breed back is when your female chin becomes pregnant almost
immediately after giving birth (chins are capable of getting pregnant
within 3 days after giving birth). This is not advisable for two
reasons:
It is not healthy for your female chin
Kits may not get enough nourishment if the mommy is feeding
them while she is pregnant
Breed back can also happen in the instance when the male chin
impregnates the female kit after she sexually matures in 8 months.
Breed back happens among the chins and kits, as they do not
understand the concept of a family. This interbreeding is not good
as the kits from such a litter will be of poor quality and the health
of the female kit will also get deteriorated.
Therefore, it is best that you move the male chin out of the cage
(doing this creates more space in the cage for the kits as well).
Breeding
Separating the Mother and Kits
Remove the kit from the cage by 8 - 10 weeks. This is done for two
purposes:
To wean them from milk, you can introduce adult chin food
in small quantities
To prevent breed back between the male kit and the mother
chin or the sister chin Cage chin or the sister chin, cage chins
of the same sex together after separating them. This will ensure
that breed back does not happen.
Neutering
This carries certain risks and of course there this question of ethics.
But if you are sure that you do not want any more kits/chins, you
can consult your vet to neuter your pet. This allows you to house
chins of opposite sex without being worried about the female chin
getting pregnant. Ensure that the vet has ample experience in
neutering; this is necessary because anesthetics pose a big danger to
small rodents. The most fatal part of neutering does not lie in the
Breeding
procedure but the amount of anesthesia administered.
You have to consider the age and health of the chin before
neutering. It is best that your chin breeds at least once before it is
neutered. Chins can be neutered between the ages of 1 - 3 years.
Ensure that your vet does a physical examination of your pet before
the operation.
Your chin should not be ill during the operation because chances of
its recovery is low. Chins with heart murmur should not be
neutered, as they cannot be anesthetized successfully.
Also keep in mind the lifestyle of your chin before considering this
option. If you are caging chins of opposite sexes, it is a good idea to
take up this option because chins are known to breed constantly.
The neutered chin needs to be isolated for 1 month for proper
recovery (remember that the incision must heal completely).

Appendix
Where To Buy Chinchillas
USA
http://www.norcalchins.com
http://lovechinchillas.com
http://www.tiggersteddies.com
http://www.chinchillarancher.com
http://www.pets4love.com
http://babysoft.chinchillas.org
http://www.petwebsite.com
http://home.earthlink.net/~sunnie901/quotforchinchinchillasquot
http://www.raining_rats.tripod.com/ACHA
http://www.thedustbath.com
http://www.wingsnwhiskers.com/index.htm
http://www.geocities.com
http://www.chinchillarampage.com
http://home.earthlink.net/~naturecoastchins
127
Appendix
http://www.furnaschinchillas.com
http://www.summersetangels.com
http://www.angelfire.com/in4/chillas-n-gliders
http://www.showcase.netins.net/web/popefamily
http://www.blueflagfarms.com/chinchilla/chincity.htm
http://www.jagschinchillas.com
Http://www.chinchillarave.com
http://foxykristin1.tripod.com/kristinsstarqualitychinchillas
http://dchinchillas.homestead.com/main1.html
http://chin.nettrip.net
http://www.njchins.com
http://www.spoiledchins.net
http://www.chinnitude.com
http://members.aol.com/sirchin/breeders.htm
http://www.chinstocherish.homestead.com
http://www.chinchilla4sale.com
128
Appendix
http://www.sewardbreeders.com
http://www.willamettevalleychins.com
http://www.TheGnawtyChinchilla.com
http://www.SweetheartChinchillas.com
http://www.geocities.com/chincentral
http://www.corvallis.chinchillas.org
http://www.chinbin.com
http://www.zanychins.com
http://www.uschinchillas.com
http://www.frenchcreekchinchillas.com
http://www.ChinchillasRI.com
http://www.rjsonline.net/chinchillas
http://www.HuggablePets.com
http://cd_farms.tripod.com/
http://www.eotc-pets.com
http://www.tejaschinlets.com
129
Appendix
http://www.saltvalleychins.com
http://www.cutechinchillas.com
http://hometown.aol.com/mabkcb/page1.html
http://www.havchins.com
http://81x.com/jpchinchillas/Chinchillas
http://www.wsu.edu/~twylie/index4.htm
http://www.alisonschinchillas.freeservers.com
http://www.smileyscritters.com
http://www.chinchillaart.com
http://www.thechinchillahouse.com
http://www.wisconsinchinchillas.com
CANADA
Http://sites.centralpets.com/mammals/cherubchins/index.html
http://www.pets-on-the-net.com/directory/chinchilla/
http://www.sylvanlakechinchillas.com
http://www.lachinchilla.com
130
Appendix
http://members.shaw.ca/chinniechinchins
http://www.geocities.com/alberta_chins
http://southislandchinchillas.com
http://www.petchins.com
http://users.iglide.net/chinchillahouse/index.htm
http://www.chinchillakingdom.homestead.com/chinchi.html
http://www.rjsonline.net/chinchillas/carolina_chinchilla_connection
003.htm
http://www.ranuiaviary.com
http://www.manitobaexotics.ca
http://www.shanschinchillas.com
Http://bluemoonchinchillas.tripod.com
http://canadianchinchillas.tripod.com
http://sunrisechinchillas.tripod.com
http://www.canadianchinchillaconnection.com
http://chinchillas.cjb.net
131
Appendix
http://www.fermecorail.com
http://www.chinchillaparkplace.ca/forsale.php
UK
http://www.chinbin.com/chinsale.html
http://merlin.chinchillas.org
www.chinnychinchins.co.uk/breedercodes.htm
http://www.cheekychinchillas.com/breedersuk.html
http://chinchillacymru.co.uk/index.html
132
Appendix
Where to Buy Cage & Accessories
http://www.epetpals.com/chinchilla_supplies.htm
http://www.pet-shop.net/html/chinhome.html
http://members.aol.com/sirchin/chin2.htm
http://www.animalcages.com/the-kritter-store-cages-chinhom.html
http://www.erodent.co.uk/ChinchillaCages.htm
http://www.chillaquip.freeuk.com/cages.html
http://www.thedustbath.com/forsalecages.html
http://www.ehow.com/buy_5215_chinchilla-cage.html
http://www.petcarecentral.com/chinhom.html
133
Appendix
Great Chinchilla Names

Andes Blossom Chesney Dumbo
Arwen Bob ChiChi Duster
Ashes Boo Chimmie Dusty
Ashley Boris Chinchi Dylan
Baby Bubbles Chingy Dyson
Baja Bucket Chino Eddy
Bamba Buckles Chip Elliot
Banna Buddy Chubbs Elmo
Barnaby Caelan Cicero Eve
Bawler Camomile Cloud Ezra
Baxter Charity Cutie Fefe
Beanie Charlie Cyclone Felix
Beano Chaz Dandy Ferdy
Belle Cheech Daquiri Fergie
Ben Cheena Davon Fifi
Benny Cheerio Diana Flora
Betty Chella Dino Flossie
Bifta Cherry Ditto Fluffer
Bilbo Cherub Doby Fluffy
134
Appendix

Fox Jiffy Lulu Nibbler
Frosty Jimmy Madagasca Nibbles
Gadget Job Manzana Nickle
Girdy Joe Marlo Nimba
Gizmo Jolanda Meringue Norton
Gris Jools Mia Nosfuratu
Grouch Junior Miffy Nutmeg
Gukki Karki Misty Ollie
Gus Kassy Mocha Oriel
Hal Kiki Mogwie Oscar
Harley Kimbo Molly Pan
Harriet Kitoby Morphy Panca
Harry Kitty Muggwye Peanut
Herman Lara Mumfy Pepsi
Jaffa Larry Mumsie Petal
Jaffa Leo-cario Munchie Pips
Jake Levi Murphy Pran
Java Lilac Musti Pretty
Jethroe Lucky Neffi Prozac
135
Appendix

Puffer Smokey Twister
Putty Smudge Ty
Quena Snuffy Tyson
Quigley Sophie Victor
Rachacha Sparky Vinny
Rain Speckles Violet
Ralph Spice Webster
Revel Spook Zach
Ringo Spook Zandra
Roxy Stan Zazu
Ruby Star Zebedee
Rusty Stitch Zorro
Sancho Stormy Zorro
Savannah Surf Zulu
Shuga Syko
Sid Tamale
Silver Thelma
Simba Tut
Simon Twinkle
136
Appendix
Where to Find a Veterinarian
USA & UK
http://www.chin.buffnet.net/chinvets.html
USA
http://www.vetworld.com/vetusa/index.html
http://www.thedustbath.com/natvets.html
UK
http://chinchillacymru.co.uk/index.html
137
Appendix
Meeting Other Chinchilla owners
http://www.chinchillaclub.com/
http://www.ringsurf.com/netring?action=info&ring=chinclub
138
Conclusion
E
xpect the unexpected.
Whichever way you look at it, life is demanding. And
meeting demands is to be expected. To expect someone or
something that makes little or no demands is an unusual expectation.
But it's not an unreal expectation; meet the chinchilla.
Chins are a contradiction in today's hustle-and-bustle world. Instead
of being demanding, they help us to unwind after a hectic day.
Imagine coming home, letting a chin out of its cage, watch it scamper
about, and be up to innocent antics. Few things can be more
relaxing. This is the reason by which chinchillas are such a popular
family pet.
Photographs
Acknowledgements
http://www.morguefile.com - Page No - 26, 27
http://www.istockphoto.com - Page No - 1
http://www.crookedacreschinchillas.freeservers.com - Page No - 13
http://www.freewebs.com - Page No - 21
http://www.elmersaquarium.com - Page No - 30
http://www.cheekychinchillas.com - Page No - 31
http://www.tilleyfarm.org - Page No - 32
http://www.erodent.co.uk - Page No - 33
http://www.chinchilla.nu - Page No - 35
http://www.advocatesforanimals.org.uk - Page No - 39
http://www.chinnitude.com - Page No - 40
http://hugoboy.typepad.com - Page No - 41
http://www.chinbin.com - Page No - 44
http://www.chinchillas2home.co.uk - Page No - 46
http://www.sphynxrescue.com - Page No - 46
http://www.luvnchins.com - Page No - 47
Photographs
Acknowledgements
http://chinchillacymru.co.uk - Page No - 48
http://www.princessleia.com - Page No - 50
http://www.antje-schulte.org - Page No - 51
http://www.hallahelmen.net - Page No - 53
http://thechinchillagirl.50megs.com - Page No - 57
http://members.aol.com - Page No - 105
http://www.antje-schulte.org - Page No - 106
http://www.cheekychinchillas.com - Page No - 112
http://www.chinbin.com - Page No - 113
http://home.earthlink.net - Page No - 115
http://www.luphen.org.uk - Page No - 122

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Chinchilla Secrets

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Chinchilla Secrets

A Comprehensive Pet Owner's Guide

Copyright 2006 Geostar Publishing

Copyright 2006 Geostar Publishing

All Rights Reserved

advice from a licensed veterinarian and/or medical professional.

adorable combination. Whoever said that "love is absolutely

wonderful" must have been talking about a chinchilla

few creatures can be as appealing.

soft pelts. Thanks to the American, Mathias F. Chapman, the animals

were saved from certain extinction.

Chins - as chinchillas are affectionately known - are a runaway favorite

well-behaved and don't cost much to maintain.

health issues - this book is a single-source chin reference manual.

This is an extensively researched book that has answers to questions you

the rookie and the veteran alike.

Checking out the Chin....................................................22

Where to Buy a Chin......................................................25

Rasping and Snarling.......................................................28

Mating Call ....................................................................29

Chin and Children.................................................................30

How Chins Interact...............................................................31

With Other Pets.............................................................31

Feeding and Nutrition.........................................................33

What They Eat................................................................34

General Feeding Pointers................................................38

Training & Taming................................................................44

One Chin Or Two Chins For You?.............................53

Water Bottle ..................................................................56

Perches and Shelf............................................................58

General Chin Health......................................................60

Chin First Aid Kit..........................................................60

Diseases and Illness in Chins.........................................64

Exercise for Chinchilla........................................................105

Free Run Time...............................................................106

Traveling With Chins..........................................................110

Mating & Reproduction in Chinchillas.......................112

When Are They Ready To Breed?..............................112

Mating Period ..............................................................113

Introducing Your Chins...............................................114

How Is This Done?........................................................114

Delivery Complications ...............................................120

After Delivery Care for Mommy Chin......................122

After Delivery Care for the Kits.................................122

What I Do With The Male Chin?................................123

Separating the Mother and Kits..................................125

Where to Buy Chinchillas.....................................127

Where to Buy Cages and Accessories........................133

Great Chinchilla Names.........................................134

Where to Find a Veterinarian......................................137

Meeting Other Chinchilla Owners....................138

was once bred for its "soft, dense" pelt.

Chinchillas (chins) ofcourse.

When nature was in one of its more generous moods, it made

similar chins whichever way you look at it.

Origination - The Wild Chin

These small furry creatures originated from South America. Their

natural habitat includes the cracks and crevices in the Andes

the 1500's. When they conquered the Chinca Indians, probably

their richest booty was the pelts of soft-coated creatures.

the wardrobe of European royalty. By the end of 19th century,

chins were going the dinosaur way - towards extinction. But

fortunately, the Chilean government took steps to preserve them

by passing laws to prevent their killing.