There should be a house inside that a chin can hide and sleep in. Chins sleep during the day and are most active at night when it is cooler. Avoid placing the cage in a damp area such as an unfinished basement as fungus growth can result in loss of fur on a chin. Uncolored newsprint paper is good for bedding and for lining the bottom of the cage. The only wood shaving that should be used are kiln-dried pine or white aspen.
Chinchillas eat special chinchilla pellets, hay, and water as a basic diet.
Treats can include raisins, grapes, or sunflower seeds but too much of these treats can lead to gastric problems such as diarrhea. Do not listen to people who say that they can eat anything a hamster or guinea pig eats. Corn can cause chins many dangerous problems. Chins vary greatly in personality. They can be quiet and contemplative or hyper and entertaining.