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Chinchilla lanigera
Famous for the softest fur in the animal kingdom. Nocturnal and active. Daily dust baths keep them clean.
The chinchilla is a crepuscular rodent native to the high Andes mountains of South America, living at elevations of 3,000–5,000 m. Two species exist—the long-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) and the short-tailed chinchilla (C. chinchilla)—with the former being the species kept as pets. Their extraordinarily dense fur, with 60–80 hairs growing from each follicle, gives them their famously silky texture. Daily dust baths using fine volcanic sand are essential for coat maintenance; water bathing must be strictly avoided. Common health issues include heat stroke, dental malocclusion, and fur-ring problems in males.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Chinchilla lives 15-20 years.
They are long-lived for small mammals, with lifespans of 15–20 years.
The Chinchilla grows to 25-35cm / 400-600g.
Adults weigh 400–800 g and measure 25–35 cm.
The ideal temperature for the Chinchilla is 15〜22℃. Ideal humidity is 30〜50%.
Chinchillas are highly sensitive to heat and humidity; temperatures must be kept below 22 °C to prevent fatal heatstroke.
Origin
Andes Mountains of South America
Sources: RSPCA Chinchilla company
Color mutations in Chinchilla lanigera. Beige/White show incomplete dominance (homozygous is lethal/lighter coloration), Violet/Sapphire are recessive.
Sources: Mutation Chinchilla Breeders Association genetics
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Chinchilla lanigera Bennett, 1829
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Chinchilla genus is CITES Appendix I (1977–). Captive-bred individuals are exempt from treaty application, but the species listing is Appendix I. IUCN EN.
Sources: Chinchilla lanigera (CITES App I / IUCN EN) / CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
25-35cm / 400-600g
Temperature
15〜22℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Timothy hay (staple), chinchilla pellets
Extremely heat-sensitive. Must stay below 22°C. AC essential in summer
Daily 15-30 min dust bath required. Use dedicated chinchilla sand
Tall multi-level cage with platforms and chew toys
Never get wet. Long lifespan requires long-term commitment
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Chinchilla is 15〜22℃. Recommended humidity is 30〜50%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Chinchilla is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Chinchilla typically reaches 25-35cm / 400-600g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Chinchilla feeds on: Timothy hay (staple), chinchilla pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Chinchilla varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026