How Do I Hold a Chinchilla?
Chinchillas should be handled gently and calmly to decrease stress. If they are grabbed roughly, they release large patches of fur from their skin. This automatic reaction, called "fur slip," helps chinchillas get away from predators. The lost fur takes months to grow back and might be a different color.
Never pick up a chinchilla by its fur.
You can pick up a tame chinchilla by holding the base of its tail and supporting its body underneath with your other hand. Pregnant females should be handled only when necessary, to minimize stress and the risk that they will have a miscarriage.
Can I Travel With My Chinchilla?
Travel is stressful for chinchillas and not recommended. If you must travel, use a reliable pet sitter or a boarding facility that knows how to care for chinchillas. Avoid boarding your chinchilla near barking dogs or predators.
Travel Tips
Pet sitter or boarding: Leave detailed care instructions, emergency contact information, and plenty of food, hay, bedding, and toys. Have the sitter practice caring for your chinchilla before you leave. |
Car travel: Use a hard plastic, chew-proof, well-ventilated carrier. Keep it out of the sun, and make sure the temperature in the car doesn’t get too high. Bring plenty of water, food, hay, bedding, and toys. |
Plane travel: Use an airline-approved carrier. Book in advance to keep your chinchilla in the cabin under your seat. If it must go in the cargo compartment, make sure the area is climate-controlled. Label the carrier with your contact information and your pet’s details. Include plenty of water, food, hay, bedding, and toys. |
