Accepted Answer

Hello,

I'm glad to hear you've already made a vet appointment because that's what you'll need to do to get an accurate diagnosis. There are several possibilities that explain what is going on. One of the most common reasons for weight loss is a dental problem. If your chinchilla can't chew his food properly, he won't be able to get the nutirients from it. Weight loss can result. When the front teeth get too long, that can be seen by looking at them, and the solution is to trim them. If the problem is in the molars, an x-ray is needed to detect it.

Digestive disorders can also result in weight loss. That is more likely if you've noticed a change in your chinchilla's droppings - different color, runny/mushy, or hard and dry.

Endocrine imbalances, such as diabetes, also result in weight loss. Blood work can detect these illnesses.

Finally, cancer is a possibility. If the vet can find nothing else wrong, the chances that it's cancer rise. X-rays and MRIs can be used to detect cancer, but sometimes even they won't find it. I wouldn't worry about that just yet. there's a good chance your vet will find an easier to treat problem.

If you have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. I hope your chinchilla will be fine.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/21/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant