Chinchilla Breeders offer a breed of animal that makes for a good pet. Here's everything you need to know about these breeders.
Chinchilla Breeders - Breeder Facts
Professional Affiliations:
The Empress Chinchilla Breeders Cooperative (ECBC) and Mutation Chinchilla Breeders Association (MCBA) are the main organizations that promote the chinchillas and breeders.Why Use a Breeder:
A chinchilla breeder will give you assurances that the chinchilla is well-bred and healthy, since you will know its' history and lineage. A good breeder will have the knowledge about the breed to educate any potential adopter.How to Find:
Chinchilla breeders can be found in the telephone book or online, through the ECBC or MCBA, or you can ask your vet or attend a pet show.What to Expect:
A breeder will assess your needs, whether you are buying chinchillas for pets, or if you are planning on becoming a breeder.Breeder's Surroundings:
A good chinchilla breeder will have clean cages, food dishes and water bottles. There should be plenty of places to climb, items to chew on, and a wheel for exercise. If a breeder will not allow you to see the habitats they keep the chinchillas in, it would be advisable to find another breeder.
Chinchilla Breeders - Newborn Facts
Average Number of Newborns Delivered at Birth:
Chinchilla litters can number between one and six; the average number of kits in a litter is two.Age To Be Sold:
A chinchilla can be sold when it is between 4-8 months old.What to Look For in a Newborn:
A newborn chinchilla will be alert, and have bright, clear eyes and dry fur below the chin.Registry:
The Empress Chinchilla Breeders Cooperative and Mutation Chinchilla Breeders Association both maintain registries.ECBC Recognized Characteristics:
Show-quality chinchillas are recognized in the following colors: Standard (agouti), beige, black velvet, white mosaic, pink white, and violet.Expense to Purchase Newborn:
A 4-8 month old chinchilla will cost between $75-$200, depending on conformation, veiling, color hue, size and fur quality.Dam and Sire Information of your Newborn:
A reputable breeder will give you the information about the chinchilla's breeding line.
Chinchilla Breeders - Breeder Concerns
Breeder Reputation:
Many chinchillas are still bred for their pelts, rather than appreciation for the breed.Pet Health:
Some common health problems of chinchillas are intestinal problems (diarrhea, constipation, intestinal prolapse), bloating, seizures, mites, and fur biting.Assurances:
A reputable chinchilla breeder will provide you with a guarantee.