What materials are safe for chinchilla cages?
Metal is best for chinchillas, especially powder coated or stainless steel, since these resist chewing and allow good airflow. Choose solid shelves or platforms made from metal or chinchilla-safe wood like kiln-dried aspen or untreated hardwood. Avoid soft plastics and aromatic woods (like cedar) that can be harmful if chewed. Pick nontoxic finishes and rust-resistant hardware.
How do I clean and maintain a chinchilla cage?
Spot clean the enclosure each day by taking out soiled bedding, wiping shelves that get used a lot, and removing food debris. Weekly, do a deep clean with a pet-safe and unscented cleaner, wash trays and accessories, replace bedding or liners, and let everything dry completely to keep humidity from rising. Features like slide-out pans, wide doors, and removable shelves can help routine cleaning be faster and easier.