The Chinchilla

The Chinchilla

Table of Contents:

I
INTRODUCTION
About the author Search for information Purpose of book

II
BIOGRAPHY OF THE CHINCHILLA
South American Origin How the chinchilla nearly became extinct Mathias F Chapman's introduction of the chinchilla into the United States

III
START OF CHINCHILLA RANCHES
First sale of pelts
Beginning of breeders' and sales' organizations

IV
THE CHINCHILLA
Types of chinchillas Physical characteristics Chinchilla rats and mice Quality

V
HOUSING
Cages
Temperature and humidity control
Sanitation
Different types of housing

VI
NUTRITION
Types of feed Pellets, hay
Digestive system
Sanitation, water, feed, hay, storage, utensils

VII
HANDLING AND CARE
Observation
Schedules: feeding, watering, cleaning cages
Physical handling
Importance of regular schedules, environment

VIII
BREEDING
Monogamous, polygamous
Pregnancy
Care of young

IX
PRIMING
Cages
Temperatures Determining prime

X
PELTING
Steps in pelting Care in handling Shaping

XI
FUR DRESSING  Chinchilla fur Processing Brighteners

XII
MARKETING
Organizations
How they assist ranchers
Pelt identification

XIII
RECORD KEEPING
Animal records
Importance of keeping accurate records
Bookkeeping, taxes

XIV
GENETICS
Systems of breeding
Advantages and disadvantages of various
types of breeding Herd improvement

XV
ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Benefits of semen evaluation Purpose of artificial insemination

XVI
DISEASES
Causes, symptoms, suggested treatment, prevention