A proper diet is essential for chinchillas to maintain their health and happiness. Their diet should primarily consist of unlimited hay to mimic their wild consumption of rough vegetation. Additionally, commercial pelleted food formulated for chinchillas can be given in limited quantities, along with fresh greens like dark green lettuce for additional water and fiber content. Chinchillas should be fed twice daily to align with their natural eating patterns, allowing them to consume food throughout the day for optimal health.
It is crucial to avoid offering treats like dried fruit, grains, nuts, seeds, or raisins as they can lead to digestive issues or breathing problems if lodged in the mouth. Chinchillas can be given hard objects such as branches from non-toxic fruit trees to promote chewing and teeth wear, but toxic trees like cherry, cedar, plum, and redwood should be avoided. Fresh water should always be available, preferably provided through a sipper bottle hung inside the cage. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to ensure the chinchilla's nutritional needs are met and any potential health concerns are promptly addressed.