Q.  Will my chinchilla get along with another chinchilla?

A.  Maybe, maybe not.  It depends on the individual chinchillas.  If you get two or more chinchillas and decide to house them together, make sure you have backup cages incase one day they decide not to get along.  Of course, if you have a male and females housed together be prepared for babies (kits).  You will need a cage with small wire spacing (1/2") and make sure to read up on chinchilla breeding and kit care.

Q.  Do chinchillas like to be pet or held?

A.  No, most chinchillas do not like to sit still to be held.  Most will however tolerate small amounts of holding and/or petting.  Some chinchillas do like to be scratched behind the ears or under their chin.

Q.  How often do I have to let my chinchilla out to play?

A.  You don't have to let your chinchilla out at all however it can be fun to watch them hop and bounce off the walls and explore a new setting.  Playtime is a great oportunity to bond with your chinchilla as he or she will probably use you for a launching pad while runing around.  Some people let their chinchillas out for several hours each day.  Others let them out a few times per week and still others do not let them out at all.  Just remember to chin-proof the room first and supervise your chinchilla when he or she is out of the cage.

Q.  What size cage should I get?

A.  The type and size of cage you use will be determined on how many chinchillas you have, how much room you have in your house for the cage (chinchillas should never be housed outside), and what cage you feel comfortable using.   A cage should be a long term investment; it protects your chinchilla from dangers in your house as well as protects your house from your chinchilla.  You should never buy a cheap cage; if you can't afford a good sturdy well built cage, you should not buy a chinchilla.

Q.  Is my chinchilla male or female?

A.  Place your chinchilla on a surface facing away from you.  Hold the base of his tail and gently lift his back end up.  Compare your chinchilla to the pictures below:

male          female

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