Chinchillas are not inherently a hypoallergenic house pet. Chinchillas are native to the Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. Due to this fact, they may or may not be a good fit for some households. Chinchillas have natural oils that tend to make them more allergenic than other pets like cats, dogs, rabbits and hamsters. This is why chinchilla ownership should only be considered by those who have no allergies or sensitivities to these animals. If you do plan on getting a chinchilla as a pet, keep in mind that they do shed quite a lot. This isnג€™t completely their fault either; they have very short hair which makes it difficult for them to control their fur.
Chinchilla fur comes in two varieties: black or silver (brown). Chinchillas with brown colored fur are usually more prone to coming into contact with people and being injured as well as being attacked by other animals. Black-colored fur is much less common and usually comes from parents that were more tolerant of the little animalג€™s traits and grooming habits. Most black-colored chins also do not normally come into contact with people often unless they need attention or want something from us like food or water bowls refilled from time to time during the day.
Are People Allergic to Cats Allergic to Chinchillas?
Many people who are allergic to cats may not be allergic to chinchillas. However, some types of allergies can come from other animals as well. Those with a cat allergy may be allergic to chinchillas as well. They should ask their doctor or allergist if they should even consider owning a chinchilla before committing themselves to one.
Are Chinchillas Good for People With Asthma?
Chinchillas are not a good option as a pet if you have asthma or allergies, due to the fact that they may be more allergenic than other pets like cats, dogs, rabbits and hamsters.
Are Chinchillas Good for Kids?
Chinchillas are not a good choice of pet for those with children under age sixteen. It is recommended that chinchilla ownership be put off until at least the age of eighteen for this reason.
Do Chinchillas Trigger Allergies?
If you have a known allergy to any of the following, you should not get a chinchilla as a pet:
– Cats
– Dogs
– Birds
– Rabbits
– Hamsters
Chinchillas can be considered potentially allergenic.
How Much Does a Chinchilla Shed?
Chinchillas are one of the few animals where they typically produce more fur than they need and then store it in their cheeks. This is done for warmth and to aid in their camouflage. Chinchillas, like many other mammals, have a double layer of fur which helps them retain moisture and keep warm. They will not only be shedding this excess fur but also any dander that is on the surface of their skin as well as any bacteria or viruses from its saliva. On average, a chinchilla can produce three to five pounds of fur per year.
If you were lucky enough to get a chinchilla with less dander and saliva, then youג€™re most likely looking at about an ounce or two per day which sounds manageable. However, if your furry friend has more dander and saliva than this, then youג€™ll be looking at anywhere between eight ounces up to a pound per day depending on the individual animal.
