Chinchillas are prone to heatstroke

Were you aware that chinchillas have a luxurious fur coat that helps them keep warm in their natural habitat, the Andes Mountains? Unfortunately, this feature also makes them sensitive to overheating in areas with temperatures exceeding 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).

To make matters worse, chinchillas cannot sweat like humans. They rely on alternate ways to regulate their body temperature, including heat dissipation through their large ears and panting. Nonetheless, these cooling processes are insufficient for dealing with heatstroke.

It is critical to provide chinchillas with a clean, well-ventilated environment. This can be accomplished by placing their enclosure in a shady area, providing adequate airflow, and avoiding direct sun exposure. You might even consider using small fans or air conditioning devices to help keep their environment comfortable.

You can even freeze ceramic or granite tiles and place them within their enclosure to rest on, providing further relief from the heat. A constant fresh water supply is also essential, as chinchillas require hydration to regulate their body temperature.