Why Do Chinchillas Take Dust Baths?

Chinchillas are adorable, fluffy pets with the softest fur you've ever felt. Their silky fur is due to the abundance of fine hair follicles. Their dense coat, with up to 80 hairs per follicle, is not supposed to get wet because it might be difficult to properly dry. The best method to keep their fur healthy and clean is to provide them with the necessary resources to self-clean. Whereas humans use water and soap, all these pets require is a bath container filled with the appropriate dust or sand. Chinchillas use dust baths to be clean and healthy.

It is your responsibility as a pet parent to supply your pet with the necessary supplies and care. Continue reading to learn about the dust bath and what pet supplies are required.

What Do Chinchillas Require for a Dust Bath?

Find an all-natural, high-quality chinchilla dusting powder. This is available at a local pet store. Chinchilla Dust is a thin gray sand-like substance.

Chinchilla Bath Sand is a preferable alternative to Chinchilla Dust. This is made entirely of volcanic mountain pumice. It is nearly dust-free and simple to use.

In addition to sand or dust, chinchillas will require a bathhouse. This is a plastic or ceramic housing that retains dust or sand. Chinchillas will flip, spin, and dust bathe in these enclosed bathrooms. An enclosed bathhouse reduces mess and ensures complete contact of the chinchilla with the dust, allowing them to completely clean their coats. Fill the bottom of this robust bath home with half an inch to two inches of the particular dust or sand for your pet. The amount used will be determined by the size of your chinchilla.

Why Do They Bathe in Dust?

Chinchillas use dust baths to self-clean their coats. This not only cleans but also preserves their coats by removing excess oils and moisture. They will flop, flip, and roll in the dust in order to cover their coat and eliminate any undesired dirt or oils.

They not only like the dust bath routine, but it also serves as a form of self-cleaning. Chinchillas enjoy rolling around and flipping in the dirt.

How Frequently Should They Take Dust Baths?

Chinchillas will bathe in dust a couple of times per week. A dust bath can last 5-10 minutes and is best done in the evening when they are most active. Dust baths should be offered to your chinchilla at least twice a week, but they should not be available throughout the day. Chinchillas may use it as a litter box if it is left open and accessible, and too many baths can dry up their skin. The frequency can vary depending on your pet and the humidity in your area.

Begin with a Dust Bath Setup!

Start with a dust bath setup if you're researching proper care before becoming a chinchilla pet parent or if you're prepared for your new pet. Your chinchilla will enjoy rolling around cleaning itself, and you will enjoy watching its amusing flips and flops!