Hi,

I am buying myself a chinchilla in the next few months (am saving my pennies) and want to learn as much as possible about chinchillas before hand. I have researched quite alot over the past week or so but wanted some input from people that actually have chinchillas as pets. Learn their experiences etc.

A few things I want to know:

What makes a good litter. I read that sawdust is a no no but what should I use? I read newspaper is good to use, but wouldn't the ink be toxic?

How often does the cage need cleaning? (I will be getting ONE Chinchilla) And does the cage get smelly quickly?

They stay awake at night, are they loud when running around and playing at night? (My chinchilla will be put in the spare room so wanted to know if it would become annoying to guests) If they are noisy, would my chinchilla be effected if I put him in another room for the night if a guest does stay?

What cage would you recommend? I really like the look of this one it will give me easy access and plenty of room for ONE Chinchilla: eBay - The UK's Online Marketplace

Thank you for any advice you give it is much appreciated and will give me a greater knowledge before I buy my chinchilla!

Kane

Newspaper is fine. Most chinchilla breeders use it and I have never heard of any problems because of it. Failing that then a wood pellet type cat litter is another good option. Might I recommend Chinchilla World to you where there is a specialist forum for you to join as well as lots of good information? I am sure you would be welcomed. Another good source of info is http://www.greenwoodchinchillas.co.uk/

That cage looks ok though a cheaper, purpose built option may be found at http://johnhopewell.co.uk/ whom I can personally recommend.

The cage needs cleaning at least once a week. They only smell if the owner does not clean them out enough.

Yes, they are very noisy at night - and messy. It won't mind being put in another room but anywhere it is kept should be dry and above all COOL, airconditioned where possible in the summer months unless it is a constant cool temperature anyway.