What are good treats to give your chin?

RoosMom · Feb 24, 2013

I've been spending time trying to bond with my chin and get him more tame. I've been giving him sunflower seeds, animal crackers, shredded wheat, and an occasional raisin. However, I'm concerned that I might be harming his diet. What are healthy treats that others have used?:cry3:

kvatore · Feb 24, 2013

I've been giving my chinchilla whole grain cheerios since those aren't high sugar. I stopped giving them seeds cause they were high in fat or something along those lines.

MyzarandGemma · Feb 24, 2013

Rosehips and dried dandelions are good treats. How long have you had your chin for? Sometimes they just take awhile to get used to you. Making him fat won't warm him up to you any faster. I would maybe give him some space, respect his choice to not like being cuddled, and work with him slowly.

wrightbrotherchins · Feb 24, 2013

I would sit with my arm in the cage for 30 minutes or so everyday. Eventually they got comfortable to hop on and off my arm. Now I can get them to walk onto my hands. Time is better than treats.

Best of luck

hownowbrowncow · Feb 24, 2013

Rosehips (whole or cut n sifted), plain cheerios, and little bits of apple pumice (every couple weeks) are some chin safe treats

I would give up the raisins because even though chins LOVE them, the sugar they contain is hard for them to process and raisin bits can stick to their teeth causing dental issues.

becky12883 · Feb 25, 2013

None of the treats you listed are appropriate except the shredded wheat, and only if it's plain. Chinchillas have very sensitive digestive systems and should not have any fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, dairy or anything with sugar in it. Treats should also be used sparingly and are not an everyday thing. There are many threads about appropriate treats and how to interact with your chin.

Idgie · Feb 25, 2013

Idgie likes rosehips, rolled oats, and oat groats. That's about all that I give her. You're right that raisins are not good. Neither are seeds.

RoosMom · Mar 1, 2013

It's been fun watching him bond with me. I study and read every night in his room and let him run around. He likes to run over me. He used to hide when I came to feed him. Now you can see how he waits for me. I like the oats and Cheerios idea. Thanks!