by Minute Major

Created on: June 15, 2010

Chinchillas make a great pet and are generally not too hard to keep healthy. Infections and diseases however are possible and your chinchilla should be taken to the vet at the first sign of trouble.

Due to the dense coat of the animal, chinchillas are relatively safe from most parasites and ticks. In fact, you will almost never find fleas, ticks, or other fur-dwelling parasites.

However, one common affliction to chinchillas is “fungus”, which comes from a strain of ring worm that also affects dogs and cats. Ring worm is actually not a worm but a fungal infection that causes parasite-like symptoms. Ringworm is also known as Dermatophytosis and can also be transferred to humans so use caution when dealing with such circumstances. It has been around before the 1900’s and is very common, even in modern times. The condition is very contagious and should be dealt with immediately before worsening. The fungus feeds off of keratin, a material found on the surface of the skin and cause the symptoms of hair loss, itchiness, and irritation. Ring worm can be tested for using many methods such as black light testing, microscopic testing, and culture testing.

Symptoms of fungus are commonly seen as loss of fur and reddening of the skin. If you suspect that your chinchilla has ringworm, immediately remove its dust and treat the condition. Spores of the fungus can exist in the dust and can prevent healing. Bentadine is a common anti-fungal solution that is applied to the skin and is effective in treating most cases. However, a vet can provide you with ring worm cream designed to treat small animals. Treatment must continue until symptoms disappear.

To prevent the growth of fungus, create a dryer environment with sunlight and heat, as fungus thrives in dark, moist environments. Vets can also prescribe a special fungicide powder to add to your chinchillas dust.

Ring worm is actually a very common condition amongst chinchillas and is expected at least once in their 15+ year lifespan. Do not be alarmed if your chinchilla develops symptoms of fungus, just take steps to treat the condition such as taking your pet to the vet. A caution to the owner: it is recommended not to touch any bald spots on any animal as it is often a sign of fungal infection and can be contagious.

Other common health problems to look in chinchillas are eye, nose, and ear discharge, suggesting infections. Chinchillas are also susceptible to pneumonia and colds. Keep a close eye on your pet and take your chinchilla to the vet at the first sign of trouble to prevent harmful conditions from worsening.

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