How long can a chinchilla go without water?
Chinchillas are unique little rodents known because of their velvety fur and are kept as pets by many pet enthusiasts. The natural habitat of these rodents is the Andes Mountains of South America, where they have shown different survival strategies that have helped them to live there for thousands of years.
They fulfill their nutritious and water needs in their natural habitat by feeding on grass, seeds, nuts, and vegetables. If you already have or want to own these creatures as your pets, you should have to give them their best life by providing adequate food and water. These pets’ caregivers mostly ask how long can a chinchilla go without water. So, let’s clear your concern about your little companion.
How Much Does A Chinchilla Drink In A Day?
Chinchillas live in the dry and rocky areas of the Andes Mountains. Living in such a dry place makes it habitual for them to survive with little or no water for some days, but that is not recommended for your pet chinchilla. In captivity, they depend upon their caregivers for food and water. A healthy chinchilla drinks 2-4 ounces of water daily.
They need access to water 24/7, but for some reason, you are unable to provide them with water. Chinchilla go without water for several days in such a situation. The central concern lack of water can cause in such rodents is dehydration. They can survive for several days without water but still need it to keep the temperature of their body cool.
The lack of water can cause dehydration, which leads to damage to the kidney, intestinal blockage, and sometimes even death. It is advised always to examine the indications of lethargy, laziness, dry pooping, and dark urine.
Examine how Chinchilla go without water
Check your little companion for dehydration. There are different ways to examine whether they are drinking adequate water. The best method is to mark their water bottle and observe the water level regularly. Some other ways to observe your fluffy companion for dehydration are listed below.
Elasticity Test
You can test your fluffy fellow’s skin for elasticity by pulling it. If the skin returns to its normal condition instantly, it means the animal is hydrated, while if it takes some seconds to return to its normal state, it shows that it is dehydrated. The best possible measure is to bring immediately the animal to the veterinary consultant.
Overheating Test
The following way to observe them for dehydration is to check their ears for overheating. Bright red ears will show that they are overheated. It is better to provide them with enough water in such a situation. It is also being said that not every red-eared chinchilla is overheated.
Chinchilla Droppings & Pee
Generally, these rodents’ droppings are odorless, but if you observe any changes in the color and texture of their droppings, take them to the veterinary consultant immediately. It could be a sign of dehydration. The better way to observe whether they are urinating enough is by placing a litter box inside their cage. Observe the changes in their peeing habits that could indicate the signs of dehydration.
Beneficial Advice
Attaching a bottle of water to their cage is helpful to keep them hydrated. Highlight the water bottle with a marker, keep it whole, and check it daily. It is advised to keep their water bottle clean and observe any bacteria buildup. Fill the bottle with fresh water regularly.
The daily water dose of these rodents is about 2-4 ounces, which can vary depending on their size and age. If your chinchilla is not drinking water, you can also syringe feed them, but the concern with this feeding technique is to give too much chinchilla water that can even choke their lungs. Taking them to the veterinary consultant when you observe dehydration is better. Be cautious about letting your chinchilla go without water, as it can lead to severe health issues.
Final Thoughts!
Chinchillas are adorable pets that can live up to 20 years with the availability of 24/7 food and water. It is not fatal if you forget to provide them with food and water for a day because chinchilla go without water for several days. But it is not advised for your little pet because they thrive with the availability of fresh water and food all day long. The metabolism of these creatures is fast, and they eat small meals and drink 2-4 ounces of water daily. Observing them for dehydration and taking them to a veterinary expert immediately is advised.
