Chinchillas are part of a group of pets known as exotics.  An exotic is simply a pet that is not common like a dog or cat. Chinchilla are not an ordinary pet they were just recently domesticated as pets and originate in South America.

Chinchilla may have the title ‘’exotic ‘,‘ but they are not hard to find in captivity and most people will not have a hard time finding one to purchase as a pet.  Even as pets go the term '‘exotic “, might mean that Chinchillas are hard to take care of. This is simply not true. They require as much time and attention as any small mammal that is kept as a pet. They still have special needs given the breed of pet that they are.

Chinchillas need a spacious cage with a place to hide. They also need toy, exercise wheel, freshwater and food. There is something else only you can provide; affection and attention. Chinchillas can live to be twenty years old. Owning a chinchilla is a long term commitment. You need to consider long term pet ownership. If you rent now and your landlord allows pets; will you next landlord is so generous.

You must also take in consideration the long term costs of owning a chinchilla. Initially you can expect to put out a couple of hundred dollars for the chinchilla and the needed supplies to care for your chinchilla. This is equitant to the costs of owning a cat and a little less expensive than getting a puppy. Housing will be a major expense as large cages can be very costly. Chinchilla are hardy creatures, but you will also need to consider medical costs as you may need a vet that specializes in exotic pets to provide your chinchilla health care over the years.

Before you commit to twenty years of chinchilla care and expense you should get online and read as much as you can about chinchilla care.  Get into chat rooms or join an email group of people who have chinchillas. You will not only get a good idea about what you are getting into as a chinchilla owner, but you can find out where to get a healthy chinchilla in your area.  Chinchillas can be as loving and fun as a cat or dog and may be the perfect pet for you.