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Important Health Issues
Chinchillas are usually very hardy. They require no vaccinations. The two main things to watch are their diets and the temperature.

Temperature
Chins DO NOT do well in high temperatures. In the wild they live in rock dens in the Andes. Their coats are made of thick fur to keep them warm. Chins like to bask in the morning sun. Rarely do you see them in the heat of the day. Chins would rather stay in the cool protection of their homes. They can withstand cold temperature down to 42 degrees. They can possibly suffer heat stroke in temperatures above 80 degrees. The ideal temperature would be around 70 degrees fahrenheit.

Other Health Issues
Malocclusion: is a condition where the teeth grow in crooked. This is a hereditary problem according to most ranchers and veterinarians. Chins with this problem have a "drewl/slobber" problem and eventually are unable to eat. This condition is usually fatal to most chins. Please check with your veternarian if you feel your chin has this condition.
Compaction: is a blockage of the digestive system. Watch your chins feces. It should be firm, dry and of appropriate size and shape.
Teeth: These are another indication of a chins health. Teeth should be orange in color. White teeth indicate insufficient calcium, iron or some other medical issue. Chins need chew toys and pumice stones to keep their teeth worn down. This is important for the health of your chin.
Chins can mask their problems and pet owners don't realize anything is wrong until it is to late. Chins can also contact the same diseases as mammals. These include but are not limited to: pneumonia and diabetes.
Other problems include fur fungus that can easily be treated.
Dust Baths: Chins need to take a dust baths. Commercial chinchilla bath dust is available and provides enjoyment for both the owner and the chin. Put about an inch of dust in a bowl or a "chinchilla bath house" and watch your chin thrash around. Dust baths should be offered at least twice a week for about 5-10 minutes.


 
   
 

Resources were taken from Critters USA Vol 8 2003