Health
Chinchillas have similar pain thresholds to people but aren’t good at showing outward signs of pain and may suffer a lot before you notice it. Changes in their normal behaviour can be early signs they’re ill or in pain, but because chinchillas sleep during the day, you may not easily notice if they’re unwell. If your chinchillas aren’t eating or are quieter than usual, they’re highly likely to be ill or in pain.
Check your chinchillas for signs of illness or injury every day, and get someone else to check them if you’re away. Observe their behaviour in the evening or at night, when they’re most active.
Signs of illness or injury include:
- Sore feet
- Wetness around the eyes or mouth
- Fur loss
Consult a vet immediately if you suspect your chinchilla is in pain, ill or injured. Take them for routine vet check-ups at least once a year, and consider taking out pet insurance to cover any unexpected vet bills.
Only treat your chinchillas with the medicines recommended for them by a vet, as medicine intended for other animals is dangerous to chinchillas.
Signs your chinchilla is stressed
Chinchillas that are frightened or in pain may change their behaviour or develop unwanted habits, such as aggression or hiding. Stressed chinchillas are more likely to become ill.
Here are some signs to look out for that may show your chinchilla is stressed:
- Patches of fur coming away during handling
- Making noises, such as barking or whistling
- Hiding
- Chewing their own or other chinchillas’ fur
- Changes to their feeding or toileting habits
- Over-drinking or playing with water bottles
- Reluctance to move
- Repetitive movements, such as racing back and forth on the cage bottom
If your chinchilla’s behaviour changes or shows regular signs of stress or fear, ask a vet or clinical animal behaviourist for advice.