For more information Introduction Listeriosis is one of the more common diseases of chinchillas, causing death at any age. The organism can also infect man. Hence, care should be taken when handling infected animals or when in an infected environment to avoid ingesting the bacteria. The bacteria may be introduced into a herd by the introduction of infected chinchillas, by contact with another animal species or by contaminated feed.
Chinchillas usually acquire the infection orally.
Once a chinchilla is infected with the bacteria it is passed in the feces. Therefore equipment, cages, feed and water contaminated with the infected feces are the most important factors involved in the spread of the disease to other chinchillas within the herd. Diarrhea may be noted, however constipation is more common. Straining may result in prolapse of the rectum. Eventually, the chinchillas appear to be in pain and will move only if urged.