Chinchilla Health

Due to the density of their fur, chinchillas are pretty immune to fleas and other skin parasites.  They are, however, prone to dietary deficiencies and fungal skin problems if not fed or housed correctly.

The chinchillas fur is a good indicator of its condition. A dull coat may be due to zinc deficiency.  'Cotton fur' where the coat takes on a cotton-like appearance and the fibres are weak and wavy, occurs where the diet is too high in protein.

Males kept with females, and less commonly males housed together, may suffer from 'fur ring' where fur gets wrapped in a band around the penis, usually during mating.  A male that is ready for breeding or has just mated may have enlarged or swollen testicles.  This is quite normal unless they are also hard and painful in which case he will need to be examined by a vet.

Malocclusion of the teeth is the most common problem that brings chinchilla owners to the vet.  The reasons for it occurring are often a mixture of hereditary factors and diet.  Signs to watch for are weight loss and drooling.  Watery eyes can also be a sign of dental problems.  The chinchilla illustrated has naturally yellow teeth of the right length.  The teeth are not maloccluded, it is just that the jaw is so flexible that the teeth appear to be out because of the way the chin's head is being held.

Fits can be caused by eating cold foods leading to colic; excess exercise; calcium or vitamin B complex deficiency or infection.  A chinchilla that has had a fit should be checked out by a vet to determine the cause and proper treatment.

EXTERNAL LINKS

Davidson Chinchillas have good articles on Chinchilla Health including post-operative care and wound management.

Azure Chinchillas have a lot of Chinchilla Health information including a list of Basic Ailments.

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