The chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is a small, high-energy rodent from the Andes Mountains. Famous for its plush fur and lovable antics, this little furball is both adorable and easy to care for. Their incredibly thick, soft fur ranges from solid white to solid black, in various grays and browns. They’re social, thrive in pairs, and love their daily dust baths — which help keep their fur soft and clean.

Chinchillas are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk. They need roomy cages, shelves for jumping, and chew toys to wear down their teeth. Once they trust you, they’re affectionate, gentle, and endlessly entertaining. Emotional stress can lead to physical symptoms, so one should be aware of the pet's needs before choosing to provide a home for them.

Fun Facts:

• Chinchilla fur is so dense that fleas can’t live in it!
• Dust baths are used for chinchillas to remove any oil or moisture from their thick fur; this will also help keep their fur soft. You should not bathe a chinchilla in water as this may cause them to lose their fur.
• They can jump up to six feet in the air — serious agility for such small creatures.
• Chinchilla fur is considered the softest in the world: 30 times softer than human hair! Chinchillas also have 50 or more hairs per follicle as opposed to humans, who only have one
• They can live 15–20 years with proper care — that’s commitment!

With their curious nature and low-maintenance care, chinchillas are perfect for families or first-time exotic pet owners. Want to add a little fluff and fun to your life? Contact us to reserve your chinchilla today.