Chinchillas

Chinchillas are one of the softest animals you will ever touch. Their fur is considered the softest in the world; 30 times softer than human hair. Dust baths are used to remove any oil or moisture from their thick fur; this will also help keep their fur soft. You should not bathe chinchillas in water as this may cause them to lose their fur. Their natural habitat in the Andes Mountains requires chinchillas to be avid jumpers, and they have been known to jump up to 5 feet in the air. As quick and agile animals, they should be handled with care. Their rib cages are very fragile, so take care not to squeeze a chinchilla. Likewise, they should never be picked up by their tail. They are curious and always entertaining to watch. Chinchillas require a large habitat like one of the many multi-level options available at Petco. This will promote activity and playfulness. They do not handle heat well, so make sure their habitat is not placed next to heating vents or in direct sunlight. Unlike other small animals sold at Petco, chinchillas have no dander, which is often related to allergies, so they are a great pet for someone who may be allergic to other small animals!