Why is my chinchilla fat?

Chinchillas are not capable of processing many foods, especially those that are high in sugar. If they overeat or eat things they’re not supposed to, they can suffer from bloat (which might make them look fat). This is from a sudden build-up of gas and it can cause them a high level of discomfort.

How fat should a chinchilla be?

As mentioned above, though, chinchillas have a diet that is different from other small pets, and thus should not eat gerbil food or guinea pig food. They need a chinchilla feed that addresses these nutritional guidelines: Fat: should be between 2\% and 5\%. Protein: should be between 16\% and 20\%.

How big can chinchillas get?

Chinchillas have 9 to 14 inch (23 to 36 centimeter) long bodies and 3 to 6 inch (7 to 15 centimeter) bushy tails. Females weigh up to 1.76 pounds (800 grams) while males only weigh about 1 pound (0.5 kilogram). This species of chinchilla is only found in the Andes Mountains of northern Chile.

How long does it take for a chinchilla to reach full size?

Namely the short-tailed chinchilla, and the long-tailed chinchilla. Chinchillas grow quickly, and they should be fully grown at around two years of age. Their growth rate will be affected by their diet, health, and genetics. So, when you get a chinchilla, their adult size may differ.

What is a chinchilla cat?

The Chinchilla cat could also be referred to as the Chinchilla Persian because this breed is actually a type of Persian cat. The name “Chinchilla” is a reference to the cat’s fur, which is similar to that of the chinchilla rodent, and this is a feline that has been selectively bred to produce a specific coat color.

What is the difference between a long tailed chinchilla and a short tailed chinchilla?

The two species of chinchilla are the short-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla chinchilla, formerly called C. brevicaudata) and the long-tailed chinchilla (C. lanigera). The short-tailed chinchilla has a shorter tail, thicker neck, and shorter ears than the long-tailed chinchilla.

Can chinchillas eat hamster food?

Since chinchillas and hamsters are different animals, they each have their own nutritional needs. Chinchillas should never be fed hamster food. Hamster food contains ingredients that are toxic to chinchillas.

How much do you need to feed a chinchilla?

Food and Water Pellets should be plain, hay-based pellets, with no seeds, nuts, or dried fruit. Pellets should be measured, and most adult chinchillas should get about 1-2 tablespoons per chinchilla per day. Small amounts of fresh produce can be given daily (see recommended greens below).

Can chinchillas eat eggs?

In the wild, chinchillas are omnivores, which means that they eat both plants and meat. However, they eat mostly vegetation and seeds. Occasionally, they will eat insects and bird eggs. They are also known for eating bark, which is very high in fiber.

How long do they live chinchilla?

Long-tailed chinchilla: 10 years
Chinchilla/Lifespan

Why is my Chinchilla gaining weight?

They can; chinchilla weight gain is caused by fatty treats like nuts or seeds. Lack of exercise can compound the issue, although some chinchillas are larger because of genetics. To help a chinchilla lose weight, feed it a suitable diet of hay and give it more exercise, e.g. in a pen.

How much does a healthy Chinchilla weigh?

A healthy chinchilla weighs around 1.3–1.7 pounds (600–800 grams). Chinchillas CAN become overweight and develop fatty liver disease, diabetes (rare), and other health related issues from eating a high sugar/high fat diet. Chinchillas are exotic animals, and they have a very specific diet.

What does it mean when a chinchilla is bloated?

Your chinchilla becomes bloated as food and gas accumulate in its stomach and intestines. Gastrointestinal stasis won’t cause weight gain, but your chinchilla may feel as though they gained weight because they are bloating, and the food and treats they ate remain stuck.

What do chinchillas eat in captivity?

In captivity, chinchillas thrive when they are given a properly balanced diet of concentrates (pellets) and roughage (hay). A diet consisting mainly of pellets is unsatisfactory and diets, which include re-cooked foods such as rolled oats, shredded wheat, puffed wheat etc are also detrimental.