Feeding a Chinchilla

Feeding a Chinchilla

According to chinchilla care guides found on the internet, the domesticated chinchillas’ regular diet consists mostly of their pellets which were engineered to contain all the important vitamins and nutrients that their body needs to grow. These pellets look closely like rabbit pellets, only more elongated, so it is suggested that you are careful in your purchase as rabbit pellets are said to contain hormones. Generally though, they are herbivorous.

Other than these pellets, their diet also extends to hay and alfalfa. Nuts and seeds are mostly left as treats for when you are coaxing them to do something or are rewarding them for something they’ve done well.

In their natural habitat, chinchillas have been observed to eat small fruits, plants, seeds and sometimes, small insects. However this kind of diet may possibly irritate the sensitive digestive system of a domestic chinchilla. It is advised that domestic pets have their meals primarily hay-based.

Chinchillas will eat as much of their food as they can contain in their bodies so it is advised that we always refill their feeder. If you notice though that your chin starting to get bloated, it is best that you administer a diet that would allow only 35 grams of pellets per day. Hay and alfalfa, however, should be as unlimited as possible. Don’t try to drown your pet with food though as it might cause them serious digestive problems or in worse case scenarios, die. For treats, such as nuts, seeds, and fruits, do not give them more than two as this will shorten their lives due to the excess fat.