How long do chinchillas live as pets?
If you are looking for a pet rodent, then a Chinchilla is perhaps the best choice when it comes to long lifespan. When they live in their natural habitat, Chinchillas can live from 8 to 10 years. However, when kept in captivity the numbers go up to 15 or 20 years. You will have to take proper care of your pet chinchilla for it to live longer.
Chinchilla’s survival in captivity
When a chinchilla lives in the wild, its longevity is reduced compared to when they are kept in captivity. This is because predators such as owls, wild cats and foxes can prevent them from living. Moreover, the fur of a chinchilla is high priced which is also a reason that they are hunted. Humans have also destructed the natural habitat of chinchillas.
When chinchillas live in captivity, their lifespan can be for as long as 20 years. In zoos and as pets, there is no worry of any predator. Moreover, they are provided with all the food which gives them their nutrition. Most importantly, in case they fall sick, there are doctors to take care of them. All these things ensure that chinchillas live a long life.
Factors that affect their lifespan
Anyone who owns a pet would like for them to live a long life. When it comes to chinchillas, you would have to take care of them well for them to have a good lifespan. A primary factor behind this is nutrition. You should make sure that you feed them a diet which is curated for them.
While keeping a chinchilla as a pet, make sure that you give them a lot of space and also water. Enable them to get some exercise every now and again and provide something which they can gnaw on.
When you are preparing a cage for them make sure that you do not include things which might end up causing respiratory problems such as sawdust. It would also be a good idea to keep another chinchilla in the cage. This is so that they do not feel alone and have someone to play with.
If you are looking for ways to extend their longevity, then ensure a clean environment which is hygienic. Anything less would cause ailments which can affect their health. Clean the cage regularly and do not feed them with food which is not fresh. Regular trips to the vet are also advised. This is because good health will ultimately affect their lifespan.
Things to know
When it comes to chinchillas, their longevity can also mean that you will have to give more commitment. Be prepared to take care of them well and be ready to buy them food, arranging care if you are travelling and the like. In short, you should make sure that your lovely pet is taken care of at all times. It indeed becomes your responsibility to ensure that they are in their best health. With all these factors in mind, your pet chinchilla can live a long and healthy life.