The first time I recall seeing a chinchilla I was awestruck. It was similar to a rabbit but had that distinctive tail, and oh those ears! It was sleeping and appeared to be not much more than a ball of fluff. I am pretty sure that I would have gone home with one that day, fortunately my mother was the voice of reason with a sound “no”.

Chinchillas, like any other animal, come with their own set of rules and it’s important that one is able to oversee the cuteness factor and learn about the animal and if it would be a good fit for your family before purchasing.

The chinchilla is a small rodent hailing from South America and known for its soft fur, and were once hunted to almost extinction because of their prized fur. The natural predator of the chinchilla are hawks, dogs, cats and similar animals. Chinchillas live among the rocks of the Andes and are accomplished jumpers.

Chinchillas will live as many as 15 years, requiring a great care commitment from it’s owner.

Some fast facts to consider before bringing a chinchilla home:

-Chinchillas are best for experienced pet owners. Chinchillas are not suitable for first pets or in lieu of a rabbit or other small rodent. Chinchillas are not appropriate as pets for children. Chinchillas are not good additions to a family with cats or dogs as they may end up becoming prey.

-Chinchillas will become unhealthy without proper exercise. It’s vital that the animal live in a large cage with shelves allowing them plenty of space to jump, a few rocks for hiding behind and climbing on, and plenty of enrichments. An enclosed wheel is a good exercise option, as are small balls and wood chew toys.

-Chinchillas have a specialized digestive system. Chinchilla chow can be purchased at pet stores, do not substitute cat or dog food. Very occasional fruit treats are acceptable, but stick to fruits native of the Andes (papaya, for example).

-Chinchillas need to chew, and the wood you chose needs to be safe. Your best bet is to buy a chew toy at a pet store, though you can harvest apple wood as a safe treat as long as it hasn’t been sprayed with pesticide or fertilizer. Do not give your chinchilla anything plastic to chew on.

-Chinchillas must have a bowl of dust to roll in at will as this is how they cleanse themselves. You can buy chinchilla dust at pet stores. You cannot skip this item if you wish to have a healthy pet.

-Despite their look begging for cuddling, Chinchillas can be very skittish and many do not enjoy human contact. If you wish to rear a chinchilla to enjoy human contact it’s best to start with a recently weaned animal, born to a responsible and caring breeder who has already begun adjusting the animal to human contact.