{"id":250,"date":"2018-09-26T20:58:27","date_gmt":"2018-09-26T20:58:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chinchillacorner.com\/?p=250"},"modified":"2019-12-15T00:14:47","modified_gmt":"2019-12-15T00:14:47","slug":"chinchilla-lifespan-how-long-do-they-live","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chinchillacorner.com\/chinchilla-lifespan-how-long-do-they-live\/","title":{"rendered":"Chinchilla Lifespan- How Long Do They Live?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Chinchilla<\/p>\n

There are many factors to consider before adopting a pet.<\/span><\/p>\n

You need to know what they eat, how active they are, and potential health concerns. But it is also important to know their life expectancy.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is no different for chinchillas. Before adopting a chinchilla, you need to understand how long they will live. And there are a variety of factors that influence a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. <\/span><\/p>\n

In this post, we will discuss the factors that influence a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. This will help you decide if chinchillas are the right pet for your home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chinchilla Lifespan Factors<\/b><\/h2>\n

Just like any animal, there are <\/span>many different factors<\/span><\/a> that influence a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. In this section, we will take a deeper look at these factors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wild vs Domestic Chinchillas<\/b><\/p>\n

This is the main factor that influences a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. Wild chinchillas typically live less than ten years. Chinchillas originate from South America. In this region, they are often illegally hunted for their beautiful coats. In addition to poachers, wild chinchillas are also hunted by predators. Owls, foxes, and cats all hunt wild chinchillas. Finally, their natural habitats are quickly being destroyed. All of these factors prevent wild chinchillas from living as long as they are biologically capable.<\/span><\/p>\n

But, domestic chinchillas have the opportunity to live longer. They don\u2019t have to deal with hunters, predators, or habitat loss. If domestic chinchillas are kept healthy, they can live twice as long as wild chinchillas.<\/span><\/p>\n

Food and Diet<\/b><\/p>\n

Nutrition plays a major factor in a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. Chinchilla\u2019s need to be fed a diet high in protein and fiber and low in fat and moisture. A pet chinchilla\u2019s diet should mostly consist of hay, chinchilla food pellets, and water. Occasionally, chinchillas can be fed fruits and vegetables as treats. But make sure you only feed them appropriate fruits and vegetables, such as carrots. <\/span><\/p>\n

If chinchillas consume a diet high in sugar, they can develop health issues. These might include diabetes or stomach issues. A diet consistently high in sugar can ultimately result in a premature death.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also, chinchillas should not be fed foods high in moisture. Moisture can cause a chinchilla to retain gas and bloat. Sadly, this can cause severe stomach problems that can lead to sudden death.<\/span><\/p>\n

But, if chinchillas are fed a diet consisting of hay, nutritious pellets, and water, they can live a long and healthy life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Water<\/b><\/p>\n

Although chinchillas need to avoid high-moisture food, they still need regular access to water. <\/span><\/p>\n

Too much water could result in bloating. But, if you use a water bottle, this shouldn\u2019t be a problem. <\/span><\/p>\n

Keep in mind that these bottles can quickly grow bacteria and become clogged. This could cause your chinchilla to develop serious health problems or dehydration. Make sure you regularly clean their water bottle and monitor their water drinking habits. Many chinchilla owners keep two water bottles. This way, their chinchilla will still have access to water while one bottle is being cleaned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate and Temperature<\/b><\/p>\n

Chinchillas originated in the Andes Mountains. These animals are naturally accustomed to cooler climates. In general, they prefer temperatures below 80 degrees Fahrenheit. <\/span><\/p>\n

These creatures cannot sweat, so they are prone to overheating. If a chinchilla is kept in high temperatures for too long, they are at risk of dying from heat stroke.<\/span><\/p>\n

So, make sure to keep your chinchilla in a cool environment. Also, pay attention to their ears. If chinchillas start overheating their ears will turn red. Since they can\u2019t sweat, they try to cool themselves off by routing blood to their ears. This is an immediate sign that your chinchilla needs to be moved to a cooler area.<\/span><\/p>\n

Companionship<\/b><\/p>\n

Chinchillas are naturally social creatures. In the wild, they live in groups. So pet chinchillas need companionship to thrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pet chinchillas are generally happier and healthier if they live with a companion chinchilla. But, if you only want to adopt one chinchilla, make sure you are able to give it frequent attention.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also, chinchillas can easily become stressed if they are exposed to other pets. Avoid introducing your chinchilla to a dog, cat, bird, or other pets. This can be a very stressful situation for your chinchilla because they will feel threatened by these potential predators. <\/span><\/p>\n

General Healthcare<\/b><\/p>\n

Chinchillas need regular exercise to stay healthy. So, they need enough time out of their cage to run around.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also, dental care is extremely important for chinchillas. Their teeth continue to grow throughout their entire lives. As chinchillas chew, they naturally grind down their teeth. But, if they are not given something to chew, their teeth will grow excessively large. And eventually, they won\u2019t be able to eat. So, make sure to give your chinchilla non-toxic chew toys.<\/span><\/p>\n

As we discussed earlier, diet plays an important factor in a chinchilla\u2019s lifespan. If chinchillas develop diabetes, fatty liver disease, or bloating, these could severely limit their lifespan.<\/span><\/p>\n

Life Expectancy<\/b><\/h2>\n

Now that we have discussed lifespan factors, let\u2019s look at how long chinchillas can live.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wild chinchillas often live less than ten years. They are sadly killed by predators or hunters before they would have naturally died.<\/span><\/p>\n

But domesticated chinchillas can live for <\/span>15-20 years.<\/b> With a proper diet, health care, and adequate companionship a pet chinchilla could live for two decades. <\/span><\/p>\n

Things to Consider<\/b><\/h3>\n

Pet chinchillas can live for 20 years. This is a significant amount of time. So before you adopt a pet chinchilla, make sure you are ready for this long-term commitment. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before you adopt a chinchilla, make sure you consider the following:<\/span><\/p>\n