So you think a Chinchilla is adorable and you figure one would make a great pet. I would have to say I agree, they are adorable and they do make great pets. The thing is, before jumping into the purchase of a Chinchilla one needs to take their lifestyle and needs into consideration.
1. Chinchilla's spook easily. If you are in a house with Children, barking dogs or general loud noises, a chinchilla probably isn't for you.
2. Chinchilla's are nocturnal. Yes, they sleep during the day and are active at night. If you are bothered by the noise of running exercise wheels and bouncing do not get a Chinchilla.
3. Chinchilla's need space. Particularly vertical space. Do not by any means think a typical rabbit cage or large hamster cage will suffice. Chinchilla's NEED a tall cage to jump around in. Anything else is cruel.
4. Chinchilla's are a long term commitment as they can live up to 20 years. Please do not get a chinchilla if you cannot commit to that length of time. Chinchilla's do not adapt well to change. Giving them up after 5 or 6 years could be devastating for the chinchilla.
5. Yes Chinchilla's look cuddly. Not all Chinchilla's will want to cuddle with humans though. If you are getting a chinchilla for your own selfish cuddling needs.... get a dog instead.
6. Sometimes health issues pop up. If you cannot see forking out a few hundred to a few thousand dollars in vet bills, stay away from Chinchilla's and exotics of any kind. Make sure there is a vet which deals in Chinchilla's in your area.
As you can see, alot goes into having a Chinchilla as a pet (Notice I did not say "Owning a Chinchilla" because, truthfully, they will end up owning you :))
If you have determined you are right for a Chinchilla, take a look at the SPCA or local Chinchilla rescue. Breaders are sometimes cruel to their animals and that type of activity should not be supported. Chinchilla's are very loving creatures, and there are plenty of them in need of good homes.
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