Reproduction of Chinchillas

The age at which chinchillas reach puberty depends on the time of year they were born. For example, chinchillas born in spring will often reach puberty 4 to 6 months later, whereas those born in the fall months can take up to a year to reach sexual maturity. Breeding season runs between November and May each year. Females cycle every 6 to 7 weeks during this time. When introducing male and female chinchillas to each other, always supervise the initial interaction. Females that feel uncomfortable with a potential mate can become aggressive and do much harm to him. This is especially true when a younger male is paired with an older female.
Gestation for chinchillas lasts an average of 111 days. A small nesting box containing straw may be offered to the pregnant female nearing parturition. However, when the time comes, she may simply choose to give birth directly on the floor bedding. The average litter size is two, although litters of up to five have been known to occur. Birth usually occurs in the morning hours. Newborn kits are born fully furred, with eyes and ears functional, and a full complement of teeth. Chinchilla kits are usually eating pellets as early as 7 days of age, although full weaning won’t occur until 3 to 5 weeks of age. Note that once parturition has taken place, the female chinchilla will enter into heat again several days later.