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Description:
Adult males and adult females 1 to 1 1/2
lbs.
Colors include:
Standard (grey), black, brown, silver, biege, blonde, black
velvet, and others.
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Chinchillas are mammals from South America. They live
in the wild, bathe in lava dust and sleep in caves. Chinchillas resemble
our North American grey squirrel; however, they are closely related
to guinea pigs and rabbits. Chinchillas need a dust bath once a week
to wash off any excess oils and to keep their dense fur soft and shinny.
Chinchillas can not tolerate temperatures above 80o F. Chinchillas
are very susceptible to pneumonia if moisture levels go above 70% for
an extended amount of time. The average chinchilla life span is 9 years;
however, they can live up to 22 years. In addition, they are very active
at night and sleep most of the day. Chinchillas do not like to be cuddled
or to sit on your lap like a cat. Chinchillas like to run on your shoulders
and run around in your room. Chinchillas rarely sit still for long periods
of time. Chinchillas are often timid and do not come out of their cage
and walk on your arm. To encourage your chinchilla to do this place
a raisin on your arm as a treat/reward for doing what you want them
to. However be careful in feeding them raisins or other treats, because
chinchillas only eat a tablespoon of grain a day and they will eat less
then that if they fill up on treats. In conclusion, chinchillas are
not a pet for small children and need much consideration before purchasing.
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