Abstract
Chinchillas (Chinchilla laniger) have proven to be a practical animal model because of their small size, ease of handling, long life span (12–20 years), and relative freedom from diseases that interfere with research. This chapter provides a review of the housing system, husbandry, nutrition, and record keeping requirements of chinchillas. Chinchillas are housed in either solid-bottom or suspended (metal or plastic) cages. The recommended ventilation rate of 10–15 air changes per hour is usually appropriate for rooms housing chinchillas. Records should function to meet regulatory requirements, aid in providing adequate husbandry and veterinary care, and facilitate research objective. Chinchillas consume between 4–5% of their body weight daily when offered a complete pelleted diet. Maintaining chinchillas in a laboratory setting is easily accomplished because their care and husbandry are similar to that of rabbits and other hystricomorph rodents.
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