Chinchillas are, overall, very expensive animals.
First of all, the chinchilla itself can cost more than hundreds of dollars. Whether you buy one from a pet store or a breeder, you will pay over $100, and it's NOT uncommon to pay $1000 for a chinchilla.
Then, there are their cages, which have to be big, spacious, and allow for running around, jumping from perch to perch, etc. The larger the cage, the happier the chinchilla, and the better the quality of life, but they get more expensive as they get bigger. Add in toys, perches, dust baths, food/water bowls/bottles/dishes, food, chews, and more, and you will end up paying over $500.
These are just the initial costs. Don't forget about the vet bills to come! Chinchillas are exotic animals, and most regular private clinics/hospitals will not accept them as patients. Exotic vets specializing in chinchillas are hard to find, and NOT cheap. In addition to regular check ups, which can cost waaaay over $200, be ready to anticipate any health emergencies, or problems which may occur. Chinchillas are prone to many different illnesses and health problems (conjunctivitis, skin fungi, maloccusion, broken bones, ripped tails, etc.), and these will also add to the vet bill. In captivity, a well cared for chinchilla will live for 10-20 years, so remember that you will be paying for health care over that long period of time.
If you can't afford a chinchilla, don't buy one, for the sake of the chinchilla.
2006-11-13 09:49:05
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answer #1
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answered by Eloise 3
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I paid an adoption fee of $20 each for my chinchillas. I adopted them from the SPCA, So I'd check them out first, they may have one in need of a new home(petfinder may have a few too!). If not depending on the color $100 to a few hundered.
2006-11-13 18:25:01
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answer #2
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answered by pharfly1 5
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