Chinchillas are popular small pets that are known for their soft fur, playful personalities, and relatively long lifespans. Depending on the type of chinchilla you have and how well you care for it, your pet chinchilla could live anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

How Long Do Chinchillas Live as Pets?

Factors That Affect a Chinchilla's Lifespan

There are a number of factors that can affect a chinchilla's lifespan, including:

1. Type of Chinchilla: There are two main types of chinchillas: long-tailed chinchillas and short-tailed chinchillas. Long-tailed chinchillas are generally considered to be the more hardy of the two types and can live for up to 20 years in captivity. Short-tailed chinchillas have a shorter lifespan of around 10 to 12 years.

2. Diet and Nutrition: A healthy diet and proper nutrition are essential for a long and healthy life for your chinchilla. Chinchillas should be fed a diet that is high in fiber and low in sugar. They should also have access to fresh water at all times.

3. Exercise and Activity: Chinchillas are active animals that need plenty of exercise. Provide your chinchilla with a large cage or enclosure that gives them plenty of room to run and play. You should also provide your chinchilla with toys and other activities to keep them entertained.

4. Environment: Chinchillas are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. The ideal temperature for a chinchilla is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal humidity level for a chinchilla is between 30 and 50 percent. You should also keep your chinchilla's cage clean and free of debris.

5. Medical Care: Regular checkups with a veterinarian are important for keeping your chinchilla healthy. Your veterinarian can help you keep up with your chinchilla's vaccinations and can also provide advice on how to care for your chinchilla properly.

How to Extend Your Chinchilla's Lifespan

There are a few things you can do to help extend your chinchilla's lifespan, including:

1. Provide a healthy diet and proper nutrition.

2. Make sure your chinchilla gets plenty of exercise.

3. Maintain a clean and comfortable environment.

4. Take your chinchilla to the veterinarian for regular checkups.