Answer to Question 1
The native habitat of the chinchilla is the barren areas of the Andes Mountains at elevations up to 20,000 feet.
Answer to Question 2
Respiratory diseasesThese are caused by bacteria and environmental conditions. Animals are usually
lethargic and listless, have discharges from the nose, and sneeze. Take animal to a veterinarian, and start
treatment immediately.
Swellings on the neckThese are caused by bacteria infections that enter through cuts and abrasions of the
oral mucosa or upper respiratory tract. Isolate infected animals, and take the infected animals to a veterinarian.
ToxemiaToxemia is caused by feeding a poor-quality diet; fat and overweight females are most usually
affected. Animals become lethargic, go off feed, refuse to eat, and have difficulty breathing. A high-quality
diet is essential during late stages of pregnancy.
ParasitesMites and biting lice are the most common. Severe lesions and hair loss over entire body are
indicative of parasites. Insecticide preparations used on cats are generally effective.
MalocclusionThe upper and lower teeth do not come together properly; it is probably an inherited trait.
Animals with this condition should not be mated. A veterinarian could correct the condition.