oddbod

Hi
Does anyone know if Chinchillas are kept as pets in Spain? We are moving in 2 weeks and the person who was going to have our pet can no longer take it so we are thinking of taking it with us but wonder if it will be too hot in the summer and if we will be able to buy Chinchilla food.

peterbainham

What do Chinchillas eat?

jdr

Rabbit pellets and grass.

jdr

As they originate from South America, I dont think the heat will upset them, but then after living in the UK ? .
According to this SITE you can feed them on rabbit food which all petshops sell.
They will probably come into the catagory of vermin, the same as rabbits etc for travelling, so it should only need a vets certificate of health.

oddbod

We buy ready mixed food. There is a brand called 'Charlie Chinchilla' the same company market 'Russell Rabbit' 'Harry Hamster' etc so presumably it is all much the same but slightly different. I know there are certain ingredients that are poisonous to Chinchillas.

oddbod

They come from high altitudes in the Andes mountains, hence the very dense fur coat. We had to keep her in the coolest room during the heatwave here.
I've checked the travelling side, she would be classed as a rodent so has free travel.

jdr

Quote from that site in the natural habitat part "Their coats dense, it allows for survival in harsh cold weather, protection from immense heat"

Inish

I would not worry about what they eat, I would be more concern about the other animals that will eat them. :scared:

mikelincs

Yes, they are certainly sold as pets in Pets World in Torrevieja, along with suitable food.

rugbymatt

they taste really nice!

oddbod

That's great, she can come with us then, another problem solved!
Many thanks