Everything needs more context and a discussion but these are a few graphics we share with prospective homes looking to adopt chinchillas.

We try to emphasize safe enclosures. Bigger is great IF you can afford to purchase a big safe cage and all the accessories you need to fill it out, otherwise a smaller cage with all the right fixings can still be entirely appropriate. A smaller cage does not mean the polar opposite of a huge empty cage : a shoebox with a stick inside. Just means a cage within your budget, that you can still provide the animal with floor space, platforms, ledges and enrichment. Example : a single ferret nation all fixed up and cleaned weekly compared to a triple ferret nation that is seldom cleaned and empty.

Look for a metal cage, with mostly metal components. The walls, the connectors, the platforms. If they have plastic platforms, cover with fleece or replace them with wood.

Investing in a quality cage, metal or nice wood ledges, and metal wheel is worth it because these items can outlast your pet. We have cages and wheels that are over 10 years old, in almost perfect condition. ( Loyal to Ferret / Critter Nation and Quality Cage wheels ( discontinued ) or Pandamonium pets wheels. )

Bedding options really depend on you.

What will you keep up with?

Covers should be changed every couple of days, liners should be changed every few days. Cages with shavings should be spot cleaned as needed and fully cleaned out weekly.

Aspen or Kiln Dried Pine Shavings are great.

Fleece covers to hide pans, or fleece liners to act as an absorbent bedding can be great.

1/2" wire floors are suitable, but just like any other surface should be cleaned along with the rest of the cage. Pets should have other surfaces to rest on, like perches, ledges, platforms, pads, beds, and houses. Chins don't spend 24/7 on the floor, and 1/2" grids are not a risk for broken limbs or foot infections when maintained. ( We use them for medical cages in the rescue ).

No paper bedding, though. That's an impaction risk.

Really chinchillas are not a hard pet to care for once you understand how to care for them. A safe environment, air conditioning, routine for cleanliness, a basic diet, a well designed cage and accessories that last... And you'll be set for decades.

- A 501(c)(3) exotic rescue, Specifically working with chinchillas for over 20 years, with dozens in our care daily, multiplied by the animals in and out yearly. 🩷

Lacey’s weekly oxbow cookie! her video is a little more aesthetic….my other chin dropped hers and I had to guide her back over 😭