How often to change dust

SeeleyAnne · Oct 1, 2012

Hi, I am wondering how often everyone changes out the dust in their chin's dustbaths? (when only one chin is using it). I usually change it either every time, or sometimes every other time, but is that necessary? Do they need new dust every single time, or can they use the same dust for a few baths?

AZChins · Oct 1, 2012

I sift my dust after the chins take their baths. You can use it until all the fine particles are out of it and it ceases to get the chins clean. As long as it isn't full of droppings or the chins don't urinate in it, dust can be used again and again.

SeeleyAnne · Oct 2, 2012

oh, okay. awesome, thanks!

SheeshBop · Nov 11, 2012

i'm curious because it seems lots of people on this board recommend letting the chins dust about 3-4 times a week for about 15 minutes, and then taking the bath out of their cage because "over-dusting" can cause dryness and itchiness. what i wonder is, in the wild, wouldn't they have access to dust 100% of the time? my guy really likes hanging out in his dust bath and i feel rude every time i take it out. are wild chins just super dry all the time??

becky12883 · Nov 11, 2012

Wild chinchillas live in a mountainous desert region, they probably are dry all the time. That has nothing to do with the pet that you have living in your home though. Just because they have something in the wild doesn't mean that they need it as pets, or vice versa. Over dusting can cause dry ears and feet, but I would be more concerned that the chin breathing in so much dust in a small area constantly could lead to lung issues. If you want to leave the dust bath container in their cage just dump the dust into a different container between actual dustings. My boys have a ceramic bath house that they like to sleep in, and they get baths when they come out for playtime in a candy jar and bread pan.