Chinchillas Flashcards
What do Chinchillas require weekly?
a “dust” bath 1-2 times a wk.
(too many gives them conjunctivitis)
What type of teeth does the Chinchilla have?
Hypsodont
(ALL grow continously)
What is unique about female chinchillas?
have 2 uterine horns & 2 cervices
Characteristics of male chinchillas?
- no true scrotum
- open inguinal canal
- penis is below the anus
- penis can be everted at birth
What type of environment should chinchillas be housed in?
- Dry
- 50-68°F
- Humidity < 50%
What environmental conditions are bad for chinchillas?
- Heatstroke @ 82-86 °F
- Don’t tolerate dampness
If using Volcanic Ash, how long should you allow your chinchilla access to the “dust” bath?
Only for 3-4 minutes once a wk.
Why should you avoid excessive treat items?
Can cause enteritis due to insufficient roughage
What site is NOT recommended for
phlebotomy in chinchillas?
Cranial cave
What are the normal values for chinchilla urine?
- pH 8.5
- USG > 1.045
What is a very common dz in chinchillas due to malocclusion?
Slobbers
What can excess treats or clover cause in a chinchilla?
choke/bloat
What is a concern in chinchillas suffering from constipation or diarrhea?
rectal prolapse
What are some fruits that can help a chinchilla with bloat?
- pineapple
- papaya
How do elongated tooth roots occur in chinchillas and cause problems?
low-fiber diet → decr. chewing → abnormal teeth wear → teeth forced apically → bone remodeling → tooth root dysplasia → further elongation → inability to chew → “slobbers” &/o secondary abscessess
