Can chinchillas eat vegetables?

Better not: chinchillas shouldn’t eat vegetables. Germany’s Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare (TVT) says chinchillas don’t tolerate fresh vegetables. It adds that they often react to fresh greens with diarrhea that can be fatal, and Woodgreen advises against vegetables too. Merck, on the other hand, suggests a handful of dark green lettuce and some vegetables such as bell peppers, carrot tops and celery every day. NC State calls greens a very important part of the diet (about 10% leafy greens and herbs), and the University of Minnesota names dark leafy vegetables such as romaine. Blue Cross says some chinchillas like a little slice of fresh vegetable such as carrot, the RSPCA allows small amounts of root vegetables as treats, and Purdue lists green vegetables among common treats, so we err on the side of caution.

Good to know: Dried vegetables, on the other hand, are an occasional treat according to the TVT, like dried rose hips. Otherwise, the TVT says chinchillas need hay, dried herbs and a small amount of chinchilla pellets. If you suspect your chinchilla is in pain, ill or injured, the RSPCA says to see a vet immediately. NC State adds that a chinchilla not eating for more than 12 hours is always an emergency.