Cages For Your Chinchilla

When considering what kind of cage to get for your chinchilla, consider the fact that these adorable creature love to climb and jump. They also enjoy running around and playing in their cages. For this reason, a cage that is higher then it is wide, is a better choice. Chinchillas are also larger then guinea pigs or hamsters and therefore need a larger cage.

Chinchillas should be kept in a wire cage so that they can not chew their way out. The wire should not be painted or coated because the chinchilla can digest this coating. Get a cage that has mesh spaces no larger then 1 to 2 inches apart and the mesh spaces on the bottom of the cage should not be any larger then ½ inch apart. Have smaller mesh spaces on the part of the cage that the chinchilla walks on will ensue that the chinchilla will avoid leg injuries.

Think about a good place for the cage. It is very important to monitor the temperature where the chinchilla’s cage is being kept. The ideal temperature should be between 65 and 75 degrees F. You should avoid spots that are too drafty. You should also keep it in a well ventilated area especially in the summer months. During this time our chinchilla can withstand temperatures up to 83 degrees F but you should avoid direct sunlight. Temperatures should not exceed 86 degrees F. Chinchillas do not sweat therefore placing a fan in their direction will not cool them off it will only blow the hot air around. You can try placing a covered pan full of ice cubes in the cage with them. They will be able to lie against it to cool down. Just make sure that there is no way that your chinchilla can fall into it.

Try to get a cage that has a pull out tray for easy cleaning. If your cage has a solid floor you can use pins shavings or newspaper in the bottom of it. Pull out trays should be cleaned once a week but solid floor cages need to be cleaned out more frequently. The entire cage should be thoroughly disinfected once a month. Luckily, chinchillas like to pick a spot within the cage in which to urinate. You can place extra bedding in the spot to help absorb the moisture or even sprinkle baking soda there to help absorb any odors.

Chinchillas need exercise to be happy. With a large cage they are able to move about and climb but they should also be provided with an exercise wheel. They should also be provided with time outside of the cage. At least an hour a day of supervised playtime in a chinchilla proof room keeps your chinchilla happy. Make sure that there are no poisonous plants or chemicals laying about that might make your chinchilla sick or no exposed wires that your chinchilla might be tempted to chew. Since chinchillas are rodents they tend to chew on things. Supervising you chinchilla at all times to ensure they are not chewing on the corners of your couch during playtime will keep you happy as well. Playtime is a great way to interact with your chinchilla and a great time for you to get to see that great climbers they really are.