What do I do if my chinchilla is pregnant?
Pregnant females should be handled gently. As the female chinchilla approaches the time to give birth, she may become less active, lose her appetite, and become aggressive toward previously compatible cage mates.
How do I know when my chinchilla is about to give birth?
Chinchilla Birth When your chin's labor starts, her "water" -- the amniotic fluid -- will burst and you might notice her wet behind. In addition to her genitals, her nose and mouth becomes wet. During labor, she'll make noise, and appear to stretch. Normal labor lasts about half an hour before the first kit's birth.
How long does a chinchilla stay pregnant?
Long-tailed chinchilla: 112 daysChinchilla / Gestation periodThe long-tailed chinchilla, also called the Chilean, coastal, common, or lesser chinchilla, is one of two species of rodent from the genus Chinchilla: the other species being C. chinchilla. Both species are endangered in the wild after historically being hunted for their soft hair coats. Wikipedia
Do chinchillas need help giving birth?
Treatment of Difficulty Giving Birth in Chinchillas If your pet was not in optimal health to support a pregnancy, labor and birth, she may be too weak to successfully get through labor. If her contractions stop, the vet will need to inject a hormone into her so that contractions begin once again.
What do I do after my chinchilla gives birth?
As a general rule, baby chinchillas should be fully weaned and separated from their mother at 8 to 12 weeks old. Nursing should die down naturally, with the kits taking interest in solid food and water instead. Make sure that the kits are healthy and energetic before moving them to a new cage.
How soon can a chinchilla get pregnant after giving birth?
A chinchilla's gestation period is 111 days. A female is capable of breeding back (conceiving) anytime within the first 72 hours after she has littered. You can do this by placing the cage of each chinchilla (2 females, 2 males or a female & and male) next to each other to observe their reaction.
When can chinchilla babies leave Mom?
Kits typically are left with their mother until they are 8 to 12 weeks old. They depend upon her for care and protection. They also learn behaviors and some socialization skills from her. Males should always be separated when they reach 8 weeks old and moved to a separate cage.
Are chinchillas hard to breed?
Female chinchillas are known to be quite fussy about their choice of mate. It may be necessary to be patient, as some females can take months to fully accept their potential mate.
Can chinchillas drink milk?
Treatment of Lack of Milk in Chinchillas In order to overcome a lack of milk in a mother chinchilla is to provide hand-raising for the kits. You'll have to feed them replacer milk every two hours so they can begin to gain weight and thrive.
Can chinchillas have goat milk?
Pasteurized Goats Milk is what you want to use for hand feeding a baby chinchilla. If you can get fresh, then great, but that is not possible for most people. Many health food stores will have goats milk available. You can also use canned or powdered.
What does a baby chinchilla need?
Young chinchillas should have very simple diets. Timothy hay and a good quality pellet are all they really need. They can have any amount of safe wood chews they want! Apple twigs make great treats for chinchillas of all ages.
How big is a chinchilla litter?
After an estrous cycle of 38 days, females may have two or even three litters per year. The breeding season is November to May in the Northern Hemisphere. Litter size ranges from one to six, but two is the average number of offspring. They are born fully furred and with their eyes and ears open.
How long does it take for a chinchilla rabbit to give birth?
The length of pregnancy in the rabbit is 31 days and the doe can produce from 1 to 12 young each time she gives birth. She can become pregnant again within a few days of giving birth.
How often do chinchillas breed?
The female chinchilla may need some time to ease into breeding and will come into season every 30-40 days.
How long does it take for a chinchilla to get pregnant?
An average chinchilla gestational duration is 111-120 days. So you should count 120 days from the time that you bring your chinchilla home to determine that she is pregnant or not. During that time, there are a few signs that your chinchilla is pregnant.
How do you know if your chinchilla is ready for delivery?
Another sign that your chinchilla is close to delivery is that they become very vocal. Females start to squeak and whimper more throughout the day and night. These sounds could be from discomfort or pre-labor contractions. It is best to make sure that you are entirely prepared for kits soon when you get to this phase.
How much does a chinchilla weigh?
A healthy adult chinchilla can weigh anywhere from 400-600 grams, and on the larger size of 700 grams. Having this reference will help you see if your chinchilla is gaining a healthy weight or might be pregnant. How big your female gets depends on how many kits she has.
Why is calcium important for pregnant women?
But when a female is pregnant, a lot of her calcium reserves go to her growing babies to develop their bones and nervous systems. Calcium is also being used up by milk supply before a baby is born.
What color should my chinchilla's teeth be?
If your chinchilla has a calcium deficiency, it usually will appear in her teeth first. Her teeth should be a deep orange color. If they start to turn yellow, you should take her to the vet immediately.
What is the nesting phase of a chinchilla?
Every expected mother also goes through a nesting phase. You will notice that your chinchilla is preparing an area to have her babies safely. She will dig in her bedding, push things out of her nesting box, and rearrange her cage. She is trying to make the place perfect for her new babies.
Why is my chinchilla restless?
She might seem restless because she is uncomfortable with the onset of contractions.
Why is it important to feed a chinchilla?
But it’s especially important for a chinchilla which is pregnant. The nutrients it gets from its food are what it uses to nourish its young in the womb. If it doesn’t get enough energy from its food, or the food doesn’t contain the right minerals and vitamins, the young may not reach its full potential size. It could even be miscarried or still born.
What happens if you don't take care of a baby chinchilla?
But before the baby chinchillas arrive, you must take proper care of the female. If you don’t, miscarriage or poor health could occur.
Why do chinchillas take a bath?
Chinchillas take dust baths to stay clean. The dust/sand used will wick the fur of any oils and bacteria. To get the dust/sand all over their bodies, chinchillas will roll vigorously in it, which spreads it around. Chinchillas cannot bathe in water when pregnant or otherwise as they should not get their fur wet.
Why does my chinchilla eat more?
Your chinchilla will also start to eat more food. This is because it needs more energy to support the growth of its young. It is quite literally eating for two (or more, depending on the size of its litter).
Why do you separate the father and mother of a chinchilla?
Unlike other species, the father of the kits stays with the female after mating and until birth. The reason why you must separate them is that the male wants to mate again.
How to check if my dog is pregnant?
First, check that it’s pregnant by monitoring weight gain and your pet’s behavior. Consult a vet if you’re unsure. Then, assess its diet and make necessary corrections (e.g. feeding alfalfa). Only handle if absolutely necessary, and consistently check your pet’s teeth to ensure it’s getting enough calcium.
Can a chinchilla mis-sex?
However, it’s possible that somebody inexperienced with chinchillas can mis-sex them. This means thinking a male chinchilla is female, or a female chinchilla is male. So, if your chinchilla is living with a supposedly ‘same sex’ cage mate, check to see what sex your chinchillas are.
How long does it take for a chinchilla to get pregnant?
Pregnancy is generally hard to detect during the first 60 days but noticeable by 90 days from conception. The first signs of pregnancy will of course be weight gain.
Why do chinchillas have miscarriages?
Miscarriages are most commonly caused by the interference with or the destruction of, the circulation that exists between the pregnant female and the developing foetus in her uterus. A spontaneous abortion can occur at any time during the female's pregnancy and is especially a 'higher risk factor' with chinchillas that are provided an incorrect diet that lacks vital minerals and vitamins for a healthy foetal development. Miscarriages can also be caused by stressful conditions or if the pregnant female is held incorrectly. It is also known for a pregnant female to self abort her offspring if suddenly scared or threatened. Jumping, fighting and falling in or out of the cage will also cause the loss of a developing foetus. If a pregnant female has aborted her offspring, you will either notice the expelled foetus within the cage or nest box (but generally they are not seen as the mother will devour them) or there will be evident bloody-coloured discharge from the female's vulva. The female's hind quarters and tail will also be soiled and weight loss will become apparent as will loss of fullness to the female's body shape. Any pregnant female that shows symptoms of miscarriage must be taken to a veterinary surgeon for an examination to ensure any debris from the developing foetus is removed and no mummified kits are developing in the uterine tube
How big is a mesh for a baby chinchilla?
Make sure the gaps between the mesh is no larger than ¼" x ¼" or a baby chinchilla will escape () and remove any high shelving that a mother or baby can jump on to and potentially fall causing harm or death.
Can a chinchilla have a pregnancy?
A pre-healthy female chinchilla will generally have a problematic-free pregnancy. The only time problems will occur is when the pregnant female is not receiving the correct nutrients during the gestation period or the female sustains an injury or stress.
Can you hold a pregnant chinchilla by her tail?
Never hold a pregnant chinchilla up by her tail as this will cause a spontaneous miscarriage! As pregnancy continues, you will notice the female become larger and laze about more. It is during this time you can begin to prepare the chinchilla cage for birth.
Can chinchillas climb the cage?
Remember chinchilla kits are fully able when they are born and regularly climb the walls of the cage dropping when they get to the top. Also place flattened cardboard or untreated pinewood over mesh flooring to prevent the kit's feet becoming trapped between the mesh.
Can pregnant women take calcium supplements?
As calcium is needed on a daily basis for the development of good bone and teeth structure a pregnant female can be drained of this vital nutrient, which can also have a 'knock-on' effect to the unborn offspring. You must check a pregnant female's tooth-enamel colour regularly during the pregnancy period as the colouration of the tooth enamel will be a clear indication of the female's calcium and iron levels. Should a pregnant female expose a lack of calcium or iron then a supplementation will need to be given as soon as possible under the guidance of a qualified veterinary surgeon.
How often should I feed a new born kit?
Hand feeding a kit is exhausting. A new born kit needs to be fed every two hours around the clock for the first two weeks. Then you will feed every 3 hours for another week or two. The kit will start to eat hay very early on and will start to eat pellets at about four weeks old.
How long does it take for chins to get pregnant?
A chin can get pregnant any time of the year, but October – April are known as their breeding season. A chins pregnancy will usually last 111 days, which is the longest gestation period for any rodent. On average a chin will give birth to 1-3 kits, although more have been known to be born in one litter.
How long can a chin stay with mom?
A kit should be allowed to stay with mom and nurse for 8 weeks.
What is a baby chin called?
A baby chin is called a 'kit'. Having an appropriate pregnancy cage prepared is vital to keeping kits safe. The wire mesh should be no bigger than ½" x 1" with a solid bottom. Any larger mesh and the kits can escape. You would be surprised at how kits can escape through the smallest area.
How many nipples does a female chin have?
That is why it is so important to have nice thick bedding for them to land on (2-3" thick). A female chin has six nipples but the two that are close to the arm pits are always the most popular with kits and seem to produce the most milk.
What is it called when chins mate?
Having chins mate that are related in any way is called 'inbreeding' . This is very unhealthy for chins and result in smaller chins with a weaker immune system. It also means the offspring have a good chance to suffer health issues throughout their life.
What are the health issues of chins?
Many health issues are hereditary such as malocclusion, fur chewing, weak immune systems, heart issues, small stature, etc. These issues are very serious and can give your chin a life of great suffering. Do not ever take breeding lightly, especially when there are so many chins that need homes already.
PRE NATAL CARE FOR CHINCHILLAS
In animal studies it has been proven that diet, vitamin and mineral intake and glucose levels (sugar levels in blood) prior to the female ovulating and conceiving have long term effects on foetal growth and adolescent/adult disease.
POST NATAL CARE FOR CHINCHILLAS
Extra care must also be given to the chin-mum as she nurses her kits and regains her strength. Ensure the environment is stress free and quiet so she can rest whenever she wants to. It is a good idea it throw a light sheet over the cage for extra security and ensure there is a small peep hole so the chin-mum can look out if she chooses to.
When do chinchillas give birth?
People often miss the birthing because it usually occurs in the early morning. However, chinchillas can give birth at any time during the day or night. If you have a cage with multiple levels, the chinchilla will go to the very bottom level to give birth; this usually happens about a week before the birthing. When the time to deliver comes, your chinchilla will begin to start stretching. She will walk around the cage stretching her back legs.
What is a breedback chinchilla?
Breedback is when the female chinchilla has delivered her litter, and the male will breed her again. This causes a lot of stress on the chinchilla’s body because she is feeding and looking after kits on the outside, and nurturing kits on the inside. Breedback takes a lot out of a chinchilla mother.
How to hand feed a kit?
When starting to get a kit to hand feed gently hold the kit in one hand in an upright position. Place your fingers over the legs to prevent the kit from getting loose. Try not to hold the kit too tightly, just enough so it cannot get away from you. Then, place the syringe on the lips in the kit, and allow one drop to sit on the kits lips. The kit will then lick the drop off its lips. Continue to do this until the kit gets the hang of hand feeding.
What are some good treats for chinchillas?
Less fattening treats include leafy greens and root vegetables like carrots. Chinchillas may be given one teaspoon of the healthier treats every day. Herbs like dandelion or parsley can be given to a chinchilla several times a week in small amounts. Dried rose hips are a very healthy treat with lots of fiber and Vitamin C.
What do chinchillas like?
Chinchillas particularly enjoy dried fruit like peaches , cranberries, bananas, and apples, and they also love sunflower seeds and unsalted nuts. They will also happily devour treats sold at pet stores. Less fattening treats include leafy greens and root vegetables like carrots.
How long does it take for a chinchilla to switch brands?
The chinchilla should gradually be given increasing amounts of the new brand and decreasing amounts of the old brand. It should take a week to complete the switch. Treats should be given by hand and never placed in the food bowl.
Can chinchillas have pellets?
Chinchilla pellets are grass-based, and they contain the right amounts of proteins, roughage and fat to keep the chinchilla healthy. Pellets made for other animals like rabbits or guinea pigs should not be given to a chinchilla, for they can make the chinchilla sick. Chinchillas should always have access to water.
Can chinchillas eat raisins?
Some people use raisins as rewards to train a chinchilla. People who do this cut the raisin into small pieces beforehand, so they don’t give the chinchilla too many raisins during a training session.
Can watermelon make chinchillas sick?
Watery fruits like watermelon can give a chinchilla diarrhea, while some vegetables like corn can give them bloat. The methods used to process and store corn also expose it to mold and fungi, and those can make a chinchilla seriously ill. Sources: rspca.org.uk. chinchillaguide.com. chinchillacare.org.
Can you give a chinchilla grapefruit?
Acidic fruits like tomatoes or grapefruit should not be given to a chinchilla.
How long does it take for a chinchilla to turn red?
After around 90 days or so into the pregnancy the nipples will change to red in color and will have doubled in length. 2. On or after around the first 60 days of your Chinchillas pregnancy, the abdomen will feel full and curved. 3.
How to tell if a female is pregnant after mating?
After the mating, the telltale signs are, as follows…. Small pieces of fluff and fur on the floor of and under the cage.
Can you have more than one Chinchilla?
If you have more than one male Chinchilla, you will find it fairly easy to ascertain whether a female is in heat or not. Of course, if you have more than one female, you will need to try to find out which female it is!
Can a chinchilla be pregnant?
To the inexperienced eye, it is not always possible to detect whether a female Chinchilla is pregnant or not. Unless you were actually there at the time of mating, then it is difficult to detect and to work out when she will be due to litter. Hopefully, the following information will help to give you a clue as to whether she is definitely pregnant ...
