Chinchillas are herbivores and like many small herbivores they need a diet made up of around 85% hay. When hay makes up that much of an animals diet it is important that the hay it top quality and appetising.

Chinchillas needs hay to help with their digestive health, teeth maintenance and overall condition.

Chinchillas can gain weight easily so a low fat, high fibre hay is important. Timothy hay is largely agreed to be the best choice for Chinchillas due to this high fibre value.

Like rabbits, Chinchilla teeth are always growing so a stalky hay helps keep teeth ground down as well as other chews and treats.

Chinchillas should have access to high quality hay all the time. Many Chinchilla parents use a hay rack and keep it fully stocked throughout the day and night! Chinchillas are most active at night so it is good to do a quick check before going to bed!

Chinchilla like treats, but this should be no more than 15% of their diet.  Without this balance of 15% treats to 85% hay dental and digestive problems can occur.  If you notice any worrying symptoms, please consult your vet.

Chinchillas live for around 10-20 years. So if you are thinking of getting a pet Chinchilla it is important to be sure you are ready for a long term commitment.

Yes Chinchillas are highly social animals and are best kept in groups or neutered pairs.

In the wild Chinchillas live in large colonies often in numbers of around 100!