Is a chinchilla a good pet for my family?
While chinchillas' hypoallergenic fur and general cuteness make them an attractive option for a pet, they are not "lap sitters," can move fast and have sharp teeth (and will bite if mishandled). This makes chinchillas not a good pet for children and we generally do not sell to owners under 12 years old. Additionally, while chinchillas are relatively quiet animals, you may not want your new nocturnal friend jumping around in its cage while you try to sleep in the same room. They like to have interaction outside the cage and a small contained space, like a bathroom, is best for this. Also, they cannot be kept outside or walked on a leash and do best in a very cool room, like low 70s.
What does a chinchilla need?
At the least, you chin will need a cage, food, and water bottle. Some kind of house or place they can hide in the cage they appreciate. Please contact me for my Chin Facts sheet for all the details on what items are required for good chin ownership and the best places to find them (often online) as well as much more information about chinchillas and their behavior.
Chinchillas are social creatures and do appreciate having a same-sex friend if you can afford to have two. Brothers and sisters and the best two-chin choice but chins about the same age often do well. If you have an already-chin and are thinking of a friend for him or her, ask for Chin Introductions to see the steps you can take to get them used to each other.
Why do some chinchillas cost more than others?
In general, the cost of a chinchilla reflects the rarity of that color or type. For example, a chinchilla with curly fur (also called locken) or particularly long fur (angora) is rare, which makes them more expensive. Sterling or class gray chinchillas, on the other hand, are the most common color and type, which is why they cost less. Mutation colors, such as beige, white, violet, ebony, velvet and sapphire, are all in a price range between rarest and most common.
Where can I find some additional info on chins?
Empress Chinchilla Breeders Cooperative (EBCB) website
