safe chinchillas

Chinchilla-specific pellets are the staple of chinchilla diets. Check with your exotic vet before using other small pet pellets.

Hay - not straw - is vital for chinchilla health. Timothy, alfalfa, or meadow hay are all acceptable. 

Safe treats include: bee pollen, crushed rosehips, dried rose petals, and other dried herbs and flowers. These can be given 1-3 times per week, but not more than that. Goji berries can be given 1-2 times per month. 

​

Never give your chinchilla fruits, vegetables, raisins, nuts, or seeds. Many commercially-available small animal treats are also not safe due to the inclusion of additives and binders such as molasses.

Many commercially-available small animal chews and chew toys are not safe for chinchillas. Properly-prepared wood sticks and chews are best. A list of safe woods can be found at the Sunshine Chinchilla website.