Questions

[Geocara]

Hi there
My husband has a love for Chinchillas and has always wanted one. I've been thinking of suprising him with one this christmas, but first I have some questions that I hope you guys can help me with.
First, is it alright to own one single chincilla? Or is it better to keep two?
What is considered a good size cage for a chinchilla? What kind of accescories should we give them in the cage? Are they easy to handle? Are they expensive to keep (i.e. vetinary care, food). And finally, we have a cat, will this bother them? Or vice-versa? If the cat ever has fleas, would it be a danger to the chincillas health?
Thank you very much for any help!

 

[Dreamlite]

Most people here will not recogmend getting any pet as a gift unless the person knows. Too many pets wind up in shelters or dumped cause of that. So just be sure he is very serious before you purchase a chin. Yes chins can be happy alone or in groups. Depends on the individual. They all have a different personality. Handling is different per chin. Some like it and others don't. It has a lot to do with how much time you spend with them. Supplies and daily care are not that expensive. But good vet care is hard to find and is not cheep. I would definetly have a vet lined up before you bring a chin home. Its always better to be safe than sorry. A lot of members have cats and chins. I don't allow my cat in the room ever. She is a avid mouser and I don't want to risk my chinchilla. Cage sizes vary. You don't need a huge cage but bigger is always better. Be sure to get a cage without plastic shelves. Chins can and will chew them which can cause health problems. Many people replace them with homemade wooden shelves. This provides a safe shelf and a good chew for the chins.

 

[lauralynne]

Welcome.

I'd start on these threads.

http://chins-n-hedgies.com/forums/showthread.php?t=857

http://chins-n-hedgies.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=31