Some of you may know that a chinchilla is a rodent that people keep as a pet. Although keeping the chinchilla as a pet has been done for decades, the practice is becoming popular only today. People keep exotic animals like reptiles as pets. However, having a reptile as a pet can be dangerous, if not for you, then also for your guests. However, a pet like the chinchilla doesn’t care as much.
If you’re still not sure what a chinchilla is, here is some general knowledge for you. Chinchillas are rodents found primarily in South America. These cute rodents are also found in the Andes. Generally, the smallest are larger than squirrels and smaller than rabbits and are mainly found in Bolivia, Chile and Peru. Chinchillas are basically wild rodents and therefore it takes quite a bit of effort and time to domesticate them.
Chinchillas are used in many ways. Here’s a look.
1. Pets: Chinchillas are exotic pets that need good care and handling. Since these are basically wild rodents, they need a good amount of time to adjust to their environment. They make good pets primarily because they are low-maintenance pets. They are extremely curious and boisterous by nature and they don’t make too much noise either.
2. Fur Industry: Chinchillas are very popular in the fur industry. These little rodents have a soft, lush coat that is in high demand in the fashion industry. Chinchilla furs are ideal for small garments. The rodent derives its name from the Chincha people who used to wear its fur.
3. Scientific research: Chinchillas are used as an animal model in research. These small rodents have a human-like auditory system and are therefore used in laboratories. These rodents are also used to study bacterial and viral diseases.
4. Breeding: Many people breed these rodents, some for their fur, others to sell as pets. These pets are expensive.
Chinchillas are not used for food as they are small and do not have too much meat. Whether they are used as pets or for their fur, chinchillas must be handled with great care. These little ones can be aggressive and easily irritated. When tagged, female chinchillas have been known to spray urine. While this rodent doesn’t have many uses, it is still an expensive pet, and the benefits it gets are also plentiful.