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Chinchillas

Common problems:

 

What are some common problems in chinchillas and how can they be prevented?

Conjunctivitis is an extremely common problem in Chinchillas becasue if their long hair and eyelashes are not kept at the right length around the eye area, infections can occur. Because Chinchillas use sand baths to keep themselves clean, sand in the eyes is also a common casue of infection. Conjunctivitis is not usually life threatening, but it is very important to consult a vet if any of the symptoms are noticed. 

Ear infections are very common in Chinchillas as their ear canals are mostly vertical. Therefore it is easy for excess moisture and debris to be retained there. Ear mites, excessive hair, wax and foreign bodies can contribute to the development of an ear infection. Because they bathe in sand, ear infections can reoccur often.

Stomach ulcers are very common in Chinchillas but they are not always noticed as the symptoms are hard to detect. Stomch ulcers develop when your chinchilla has eaten coarse, toxic or moldy food that it has a reaction to. Stomach ulcers build up over time and can be dangerous if left untreated. They are most commonly seen in very young or very old Chinchillas with a delicate stomach lining. 

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