We believe that people should make an informed decision before taking on the responsibility of caring for a chinchilla. Here are reasons to NOT get a chinchilla as a pet.
- Chinchillas are nocturnal which means they may not be awake when you are and they may make noise while you are trying to sleep.
- Chinchillas need attention, but they don't like to be picked up. This makes them less than ideal for young children.
- Chinchillas need to have their cage cleaned frequently for their own health and to keep it from smelling.
- Chinchillas will chew on everything including baseboards, doors, furniture, and wires. If you can't chinchilla-proof a room, you're going to be in for a lot of maintenance.
- Chinchillas can live up to 20 years which means a long-term commitment.
- You can't leave your chinchillas unattended for days while you travel.
- Chinchillas don't travel well. Their skittish nature means that travel will cause them stress.
- Chinchillas can overheat and die under conditions that you would find tolerable.
And in case you think we're anti-chinchilla (not true), check out our list of reasons to own a pet chinchilla.
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July 25th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
Recently my mother has been thinking about me getting a chinchilla. I've done alot of research and the only thing that concerns me is how they are easily scared. The chinchilla would be staying in my room which is right above our garage. The problem is that when the garage door opens and closes it kind of shakes my room and makes a noise. I was wondering if this would be ok for the chinchilla after it gets used to it or if it is something to be concerned about.
much thanks,
Jessie
October 11th, 2007 at 6:45 am
Ann-Marie,
It sounds like you're doing everything just fine. It's unlikely that your chinchilla is truly staring outside in some longing way. They sometimes go in these trance-like states and it's nothing to worry about. Chinchillas don't always get along with each other so getting another may not be an improvement at all. Having said that, if you have the time and patience to introduce a second chinchilla, go for it. Your best bet is to find a breeder that will allow you to return the chinchilla if need be.
October 10th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Hello there,
I own a 7-month-old male chin. I've had him since June, and he's my one and only. That said, I'm his only company. Everytime I let him out of his cage to play, he seems to do his own thing and appears fine. However, I've noted (especially of late) that he usually sits in his cage (wide awake) and stares outside. I almost get the impression that he may be lonely. How can I tell if my chin is in need of a companion? I give him as much attention as I can considering that I have a full-time job and work 10 hours a day plus go out often. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
September 14th, 2007 at 10:44 pm
Phyllis,
An AC is fine around chinchillas. We use one to keep a room at a constant temperature in the summer. Alberta weather is also dry (at least in Calgary it is) which is a good thing.
September 13th, 2007 at 9:30 am
Do you know of anyone who has a chinchilla in a classroom setting. I teach high school biology and I am looking for another pet.We had a hedgehog but he recently pass away. Thank you.