What Do Chinchillas Eat?

New to chinchillas? Their diet is simpler than it might seem, once you know the basics.

The core diet

Unlimited fresh hay (the bulk of the diet), a small measured portion of chinchilla-specific pellets, and treats kept genuinely minimal.

Sample daily diet

Unlimited hay always available, a small measured pellet portion once daily, and, occasionally, a small chinchilla-safe treat — not a daily item.

Foods to avoid

Fresh fruit and vegetables (fine for rabbits and guinea pigs, best avoided for chinchillas given their sensitivity to sugar and moisture), anything high in fat, and pellets made for other small animals.

Treat frequency

Sparingly — a small piece, occasionally, is the right amount. Chinchillas are more prone to digestive upset from treats than rabbits or guinea pigs, so “occasional” here means genuinely rare.

General small-pet care information, not veterinary advice — if your pet has a specific health condition, is a picky eater, or you are changing their diet, it is worth checking with an exotic-animal-savvy vet for guidance tailored to them.

FAQs

Can chinchillas eat the same pellets as rabbits or guinea pigs?

It’s best to use a chinchilla-specific pellet — their fat tolerance is lower, and a chinchilla-formulated pellet is built around that.

Why can't chinchillas eat fresh fruit like rabbits do?

Their digestive system is more sensitive to sugar and excess moisture, so fresh fruit that’s fine for rabbits and guinea pigs in moderation can upset a chinchilla’s stomach.

Shop the essentials

Browse chinchilla-safe food, or read our full Chinchilla Care Guide.