how long do chinchillas live?

Answer 1

Chinchillas in the wild typically live about 10 years, but those in bred in captivity and kept as pets usually live between 15 to 20. They are a long term pet, just like a dog. And whoever said they live longer in the wild than they do in captivity was misinformed or didn't do their homework. They live up to twice as long in captivity than they do in the wild.

Answer 2

Chinchillas, depending on how well you take care of them, can live 15-20 years. If they were bought from a reputable breeder and there are no genetic problems, then they are long term animals. Most people buy them from a pet store, something winds up being wrong with them and they just let them die or think it's sick and they don't take it to the vet. Chinchillas should have a yearly exam, just like any other pet. The great thing is they don't get fleas and you can't be allergic to them. The down side is, if there is some type of genetic problem (usually their teeth), then people do not realize the up-keep of a chin. I have to take my little guy like every 3 months to have his teeth filed. I adopted him, so I really knew nothing about him except the age. The owner was tired of it, didn't play with it anymore and so when I got him, he was about 3. That is also about the time that they begin to develop these problems. If there is no problem with the chin, then up-keep on them is fairly in-expensive and easy. If you get one that is genetically compromised or you don't anything about, then you may wind up spending some money or like most people, opt not to spend much at all, they die and only live for a few years. They need a clean cage, clean water, good food and exercise. If they do not exercise, this will cause them not to live as long. The bigger the cage, the better. Especially if you can not asure they will get out everyday. The best cage is one that can be built. The only bad thing with this is there are certain types of wood that can not be used. Do some internet research and look for "safe cages for chinchillas."

Answer 3

Provided with proper care Chinchillas can live up to 20 years.

Answer 4

Chinchillas live for up to 19 years, some may live even longer but only in the wild, they are origaninaly from the Andies Mountains of central South America. Up their it is very cold with a high altitude. In captivity the conditions are not the same. When domesticated thes creatures are very delicate .So in captivity they only live for about 10-12 years. So if you where thinking about getting one its probably not a good idea, plus they are not very tame.

Answer 5

Our Harry is now 18 years old (well will be in a few weeks)
Her only health problem (EVER) was an eye infection 3 months ago.

Since she turned 10 she really became much more quiet. She only really likes to cuddle with us (and with our dog). She isn't so interested in climbing and running around like a crazy like she used to. She really wants cuddles and neck tickles.

We bought her in a pet store in Scotland a little over 17 years ago. Perhaps we were lucky. She is the oldest one my vet has ever had. His previous record during his long career was a 16 year old.

Generally I see a lot of folk say theirs die between 9 and 12 years old. But they can live up to 20 years and mine is 18 and doing well!

Answer 6

5 years

Answer 7

15 years

Answer 8

14 years

Answer 9

It all depends on care and genetics. If you have a healthy chin you can look at a good 15-20 years.