Some companion animal species thrive on a varied diet, but others perform better on a more constant fare. The chinchilla fits into the latter grouping. With its sensitive balance of intestinal microflora (microbes that reside in the intestines and play a critical role in digestion), this rodent’s overall health may be seriously compromised by any practice that upsets the steady grind of microbial activity. A rapid change in diet and the offering of too many treats (commercial snacks, fruits, vegetables) are two such ill-advised practices.
Main Diet
A sound dietary plan includes commercial pellets made specifically for chinchillas, ample quantities of timothy hay (along with some alfalfa), and fresh water. Some chinchillas are quite finicky when it comes to eating and are susceptible to eating disorders induced by stress and dental problems. Depending on the quality and quantity of alfalfa hay consumed (which is typically rich in calcium), you may want to sprinkle a powdered calcium supplement on the feed a few times per week. Extra vitamin C may also be added. Consult an animal nutritionist or veterinarian for further advice on supplementation strategies. To maintain maximum freshness and preserve the nutritive value of the feed, store your chinchilla’s pellets in a cool, dry environment. Before offering hay, be sure it is dry, smells fresh and shows no signs of mold growth. Chinchillas typically consume a few tablespoonfuls of pellets per day and will nibble on the hay at their leisure. Try to feed your chinchilla at around the same time each night. If the diet must be changed, slowly incorporate the new feed. The process of adding the new pellets and reducing the old pellets should be done proportionately, and it should take at least a week or two to complete the conversion.A chinchilla’s diet is rich with fresh pellets and hay, but sometimes pet owners want to jazz-up the diet with supplements and treats. Before you give these extras to your chinchilla, observe your pet for signs of malnutrition, and consult your veterinarian.
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Hay
Chinchillas must have hay to maintain a healthy intestinal balance. Hay is available in loose bales or in compressed cubes. Hay should be available to the chins at all times. Timothy hay is the type to use as it has more roughage and is much better for their teeth. A half-and-half mixture of timothy and alfalfa hay is great in the cube form.The hay should smell fresh and not be musty. Make sure it’s not too brittle and breaks when you bend it. It should be a healthy green color.
Supplements
Consider giving your pet chinchilla supplements if it has any of the following conditions: rough, brittle coat; diarrhea; decreased activity; or weight loss. Watch your chinchilla for signs of stress or illness: it stops eating and drinking; it stops playing with its toys. These signs could indicate a need for supplements. Always contact your veterinarian before feeding your pet chin supplements. Your veterinarian knows your chinchilla’s conditions and will know whether or not it requires supplements. Always keep supplements separate from usual feed because chinchillas often only eat the supplements and not the regular food. Supplements only need to be given three or four times a week.
Treats
It seems tempting to spoil your chinchilla with treats every day, but too many can be dangerous. Give treats two to four times a week. Good treats are natural fruits and vegetables—mostly plant proteins. Stay away from sugars, dried fruit, and too many fats like those in nuts and seeds. Do not overfeed treats. Chinchillas will get spoiled and eat only treats instead of staple foods like hay and pellets. A chin that gets too many treats will suffer diarrhea, bloating and impactions. Obesity is also a risk. Fresh hays and commercial diets usually have enough nutrients but small amounts of treats are OK in limited quantity. Supplements are used during times of stress or illness. Remember to always consult your veterinarian before feeding supplements or treats.
Water
Constantly supplying your chinchilla with enough water sounds simple, but there are things to consider. Chinchillas need water to help with digestion. They eat fiber, and without a lot of water, chinchillas can suffer bowel obstructions, anorexia or a buildup of toxins from bacteria. A chinchilla’s water must be fresh and clean. Change your chinchilla’s water daily. Avoid distilled water, or bottled water with a high sodium content. Sodium will dehydrate your chinchilla. Water softeners also contain high levels of sodium. Chinchillas need iron and calcium found in natural water. Check to make sure your city or well water has been tested. If it is safe to drink, give your chinchilla cold water from the tap. Vitamin waters are also good, but check the label and the brand. They could contain sodium. Clean your chinchilla’s water bottles daily. Old water or dirty bottles lead to algae buildup. The water will have a foul taste and contain harmful bacteria. Change the water and clean the water bottle every day. The sipper tube needs to be cleaned daily, too. It is common for sipper tubes to get clogged with bedding material and food. To clean the tube, use soap, water and a good brush. Check your chinchilla’s sipper tube several times a day. If the tube gets clogged, your chinchilla will suffer from dehydration. If your chinchilla is dehydrated it will become sick and stop eating. Call your veterinarian immediately if you think your chinchilla is dehydrated. Depending on the level of dehydration, intravenous fluids might need to be administered. Depending on your pet’s diet, it should drink 30 to 40 ccs of water a day. A medium-sized water bottle holds enough water for one day. If your chinchilla drinks more than that, call your veterinarian.
Chinchilla Nutrition
Below is a breakdown of what to feed your chinchilla including vegetables and treats