safe chinchillas

Although chinchillas are soft, adorable, and can be friendly, they are not cuddly animals! While exceptions exist, they generally do not like being held.  

Chinchillas can form strong bonds with their owners, and as a result may love to be petted! Chin scratches are often well-received. It's a good idea to approach your chinchilla from below, where they can see you, rather than from above (remember, they are prey animals and therefore are easily scared!). 

Chinchillas do absolutely fine alone, and do not need another chinchilla to live with them. 

Chinchillas can live up to (and sometimes longer than) 20 years! They are a long-term commitment.

Chinchillas are physically fragile and easy to injure. For this reason, they are not considered good pets for most kids. 

Creating a bond between chinchillas is much more complicated than just putting them in the same cage. If not properly bonded, they can and will fight - sometimes resulting in severe injuries and death. If you wish to bond chinchillas, there are different methods to do so safely - please consult with your veterinarian or expert breeder. 

If a male and female chinchilla are caged together, they will mate, and - unless they are spayed/neutered - you will end up with baby chinchillas (kits). It is not recommended to allow pet chinchillas to breed. 

Chinchillas are skittish little creatures, and bonding with humans can take weeks, months, and even years. Be patient, be gentle, and remember that the reward is a friendship that can be decades long.