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Plants dangerous to chinchillas

Chinchillas have sensitive digestion and chew wood and leaves. Only use chew-safe woods and dried herbs.

Chinchillas

Warning signs: Bloating, no droppings, drooling, lethargy.

If you suspect poisoning: remove any plant material, keep a sample, and call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

11 plants to keep away from chinchillas

  • Yew

    Severe

    Taxine alkaloids cause sudden heart failure.

  • Oleander

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides disrupt heart rhythm; can be fatal in small amounts.

  • Azalea & rhododendron

    Severe

    Grayanotoxins cause vomiting, weakness, abnormal heart rhythm.

  • Lilies (true lilies & daylilies)

    Severe

    Acute kidney failure; even pollen or vase water can be fatal.

  • Rhubarb leaves

    Severe

    Oxalic acid causes kidney damage and tremors.

  • Avocado (leaves, pit, skin)

    Severe

    Persin causes heart damage and respiratory distress.

  • English ivy

    Moderate

    Saponins cause vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

  • Potato (green parts & sprouts)

    Moderate

    Solanine causes vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.

  • Oak (acorns & young leaves)

    Moderate

    Tannins cause kidney damage and colic.

  • Citrus (lemon, lime) leaves & peel

    Moderate

    Essential oils cause vomiting and skin irritation.

  • Privet

    Moderate

    Digestive upset, weakness and incoordination.

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General information only, not veterinary advice. Toxicity varies with the amount eaten and the animal's size.