subject: Why Do Chinchillas Need A Dust Bath? [print this page] Why Do Chinchillas Need A Dust Bath? Why Do Chinchillas Need A Dust Bath?
Due to their very dense coat, chinchilla's require a chinchilla dust bath to clean their coat. Their fur collects oils and moisture and in the wild, chinchillas would roll around in volcanic ash which absorbs any moisture, therefore, it is essential to provide pet chinchillas with a dust bath.
Wild chinchillas never go into water, and pet chinchillas should never be bathed in water as this removes the natural oils which protect the skin and also helps to keep their body temperature regulated. The regular provision of chinchilla dust baths using specialised chinchilla dust are an exceptionally important aspect of your chinchilla's grooming regime. Not only does bathing in sand keep the coat in good condition, chinchilla's really enjoy it, and will roll around happily which is great fun to watch.
It's important to always use a specially designed chinchilla dust, as it penetrates deep through the coat and to the skin. Other powders or sands should never be used, no matter how similar they look or feel, as they won't work and some could even be damaging chinchillas. Chinchilla dusts are designed to replicate the natural materials in which wild chinchillas would bathe. The dust should be around 2 inches deep within the chinchilla dust bath, making it efficient in an all over bathe whilst chinchillas roll.
For the chinchilla dust bath, a heavy container should be used to ensure it cannot be tipped over. Obviously the container needs to be bigger than the chinchilla and can be either home made or shop bought. There are some chinchilla dust baths which are enclosed, and have the advantage of a mess free bath, preventing dust from being scattered around as chinchillas roll and play. Ceramic dust baths are a good idea, as not only are they heavy and thus cannot be moved or tipped over by chinchillas, they're also chew proof and will last as chinchillas are keen chewers and will most likely nibble on plastic or wood. Chinchilla dust baths shouldn't be left in a chinchilla cage permanently, but given regularly and taken out. Too many dust baths can cause the skin to become too dry, and often, if left in a chinchilla's habitat for too long, the dust bath will be used as a toileting area. It is recommended that a dust bath is provided for chinchillas at least twice a week and for at least 10 minutes, but no longer than 20.
Watching chinchillas have a dust bath is great fun, as they roll around in what appears to be a state of ecstasy! Dust baths are not difficult to provide and contribute greatly to the overall health of chinchillas, keeping both owner and pet as happy as possible!
For a great range of chinchilla products, please visit www.netpetshop.co.uk, where you'll find all you need to keep your pet chinchilla in an optimum health for maximum happiness!
