Chinchillas have delicate digestive systems, thus proper care and adequate nutrition is a necessity to their longevity and happiness. Never should one use rabbit or guinea pig pellets as a means for nutrition; these foods are formulated for the digestive tracts and nutritional needs of their designated animal. Although the digestive processes are similar, one must keep in mind that these animals come from different areas natively and that these areas have different food items available to the animals.

Nutritional Demands

Studies have compared the digestive tract of chinchillas to that of guinea pigs. It has been found that they are extremely similar, especially in regards to the enlarged cecum which allows for fermentation and break down of complex carbohydrates like cellulose due to bacterial populations (much like the rumen in a ruminant animal). However research shows that chinchillas do not require supplemental ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in their diet like guinea pigs (Larrivee, & Elvehjem, 1953). Chinchillas require adequate fiber in their diet which aids in stool production as well as fewer hair balls. This can be accomplished by always having timothy hay available.

Hay

Fresh hay should always be accessible to your furry friend. Avoid using alfalfa hays unless you have a young (under six months) or pregnant or nursing chinchilla. Alfalfa contains excess nutrients and can lead to diarrhea in older chinchillas as well as obesity (http://www.scottsdaleveterinaryclinic.com/pdf/info_pages/Chinchilla/Nutrition.pdf). The breakdown of hay leads to the bulk of carbohydrate absorption in herbivorous animals (both ruminants and pseudo-ruminants). Without this, chinchillas may seem lethargic, have irregular bowel movements, or may lose their appetites altogether.

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