A Quick Guide to Chinchilla Boredom Breakers
Chinchillas can get bored and it is important to provide the mental and physical simulation they need to stay happy and healthy. Without the proper and necessary accessories and socialisation, your chinchilla will quickly get bored.
We’ve divided this article up into 3 parts…
- Keeping your chinchilla entertained IN their cage
- Bonding/Playtime
- DIY/Homemade Toys
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Entertaining your Chinchilla IN their cage
Many people can’t spend the whole day playing with their chinchilla. This means you have to provide toys and accessories inside the cage so they can stay active and stimulated. Chinchillas should have a tall and large cage to provide enough room for doing the things they love.
(Image credit= Pinterest)
Chew Toys
Like other rodents, chinchillas teeth are continuously growing. They naturally chew so if you don’t provide them with chew toys they will start to trying to chew on other things. Some safe woods include… willow, apple, poplar, and aspen.
*Always make sure the toys are NOT treated with any pesticides or chemicals that could potentially harm your chin.
Hiding Boxes & Tunnels
Give them plenty of places to hide in their cage. Chinchillas need this space to feel safe and sleep. If you have multiple chinchillas they might also find it fun to hide from each other. It’s recommended to choose things that aren’t plastic because of their natural chewing instincts
Ledges/Climbing Toys
Chinchillas love to jump and climb, especially at certain times in the day. There are many different types of climbing toys that you can provide such as ladders, perches, ledges and platforms.
Exercise Wheels
Exercise wheels are perfect for those times that your chinchilla suddenly has a burst of energy. Avoid using any wheel that has spokes or a horizontal bar because they can cause injuries.
Hammocks
Hammocks are fun for hopping around on and can also be a comfy place to sleep or even watch TV!
Television
Did you know that chinchillas like watching tv?! While this shouldn’t be their primary source of entertainment, it will keep them entertained for a while. Just make sure the volume isn’t too loud.
Bonding/Playtime
Chinchillas have lots of energy to burn after being cooped up in their cage all day. Spending time with your chinchilla is probably one of the most important responsibilities you have as a pet owner. You have two options when taking them out… putting them in a playpen or letting them run free in a safe chin-proofed room. No matter what you choose make sure they are supervised at all times. (+ you can also sneak in some snuggles.)
(Image credit= womensday.com)
Playtime Tips
- Put out interesting toys that you normally wouldn’t put in their cage
- If you have cardboard boxes/ pieces of cardboard make a maze, huts, & other interesting things
- Leave their cage door open with a little platform to go inside so if they get bored or scared they can easily go back
- Put out their dust bath. (Chinchillas love them!)
DIYs/Homemade Toys
DIYs and Homemade toys are another great boredom breaker for not only your chinchilla but for you to! For all you crafty chinchilla owners here’s a video of a few DIY toys you can make for your chinchilla…
Take a picture of you chinchilla with or doing one of the ideas in this article and tag us @crittermamas.
Also, while you’re here why don’t you check out our article called How to Take Amazing Photos of your Pet with a Phone (Tips and Tricks)
