Chinchillas belong to the rodent class and traces their roots to South America. These animals have a thick and luxurious fur. When held captive, these animals have a life expectancy ranging from 10-20 years. In their natural habitat they live from 10 to 15 years.

Chinchilla facts note that these animals were almost extinct in the onset of the 1900s, as they were hunted and eliminated for their fur. The fur business was on the boom during those days, and Chinchillas’ furs were used to create coats. In making a single fur coats, at least 80 of these creatures are killed. When their numbers declined to near extinction, 11 Chinchillas were brought to the US for breeding. One of the 11 died while on the way to the US, although another was born to replace the demised specie. All the Chinchillas that are bred in the US originated from those 11 creatures.

Another of the Chinchilla facts state that these animals are most active during night time. Because they sleep at daytime, they have to be kept away from noisy environments that can distract their sleep. They also tend to get upset easily from noise and stress. These creatures also have varied temperaments. They can be affectionate, social, mischievous, intelligent, and mean. The attitude of these rodents can be inbuilt. Thus, a calm Chinchilla is most likely to be calm for the rest of its life, while a mean one can be such for a long period of time.

Owners can however influence the attitude of their pets. Spending more time with them can help a pet owner earn the trust of these rodents. One of the Chinchilla facts is that while most of these creatures are not fond of being cuddled, some of them allow their owners to hold and culled them. When holding a Chinchilla, two hands should be used by the owner. Their back legs must be supported by one hand, while the other hand should support the front feet. Using the body to hold them up will also allow these creatures to feel more secure. However, it is not advised that these creatures are kept as pets by those suffering from allergies from dust or animal fur. They are also not ideal pets for kids since children usually hold and cuddle them.

Chinchilla facts also reveal that like all types of rodents, Chinchillas require something to choose to maintain the health of their teeth. Pet owners should give them with something nontoxic to chew, so they won’t be forced to chew on their food bowl or their cage’s bars. These rodents are also capable of making sounds, from squeals, squeaks and barks that are often odd sounding. They don’t often make vocal sounds. Most of the time, their noises are produced from various activities like chewing, running around their cage, or rearranging stuffs inside their place.

These are just some of the most commonly known Chinchilla facts. Without a doubt, Chinchillas are wonderful pets to have. They have an adorable personality and their fur makes them more lovable. These creatures are easy to take care of, especially for pet owners who devote much of their time and attention to these animals.