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Author JoAnn
Luv 'N Chins

Hints for New Chin Owners
and Owners-to-be



Each chinchilla has a different personality. Some are happy to be left alone much of the time; others will constantly vie for your attention. Their 'attention getters' can range from low volume pleasing sounds to high-pitched loud squeals, from patiently standing at the cage door quietly, to rattling the cage door, making all the noise possible. Or they will learn little tricks or just special looks that say, "Come play with me."

Do not expect any two chins to be exactly alike. I have 21 (the latest two born September 1st) and no two are alike. This is in reference to personalities, not colors. Some are quiet, some shy, others quite outgoing and playful. Some do tricks for attention while others show you they want you to rub and scratch them by just coming out on to your hand when you open the door. You may have one chin that wants to play by crawling over you inspecting everywhere from your eyes to your toes, while another will prefer exploring every little nook and cranny in the room.

Never assume you can introduce two chins and expect that they will automatically become friends, or that you can put just any two pair of chins together and they will mate. When you choose chins (if you get more than one at the same time and they are of the same sex), if you ask, many breeders will try to put them together, or at least start the introduction process, before you pick them up. Although, it is best to have a spare cage on hand just incase a problem arises between the chins. If you get both male and female chins, and the female is under a year old, separate cages are a must until she is of breeding age. If you choose to purchase one chin, then another later on, try to match the first chin's personality as closely as possible when you purchase the second one. Sometimes the first chin will become jealous, just as an older child is often jealous of a new baby. Here, also, a second cage is a must to allow for the time you need to introduce them and allow them to become friends.

Much like us humans, they have their likes and dislikes and their personalities can either blend or conflict with each other, as well as with or towards you. Each will have his/her preferences as to which treat they do or do not like. One may like to be scratched and another prefers to be rubbed. One may like to be scratched behind the ear another scratched on the shoulder or under the chin. Most chins do not like to be 'rubbed', but I have found I have three who love this! Some will 'escape' anytime they get a chance, while others will patiently wait at the cage door while you change their water, fill their food bowl or clean their cage.

Chinchillas are very smart and learn quickly. They learn what you like and do not like, what will get your attention, and what pleases you in a special way. They will often use this to get what they want ~ which is usually extra attention or a treat.

These little fur-balls are a world of entertainment, fun, laughter, and love. They need your attention and love in return for a healthy, happy, long life with you. It is up to you to learn all you can to take proper care of them. There is a world of information on the Internet, but beware, many times you will see things that will conflict with each other. When in question, contact your breeder or the MCBA. There are sites that have long time breeders who are kind enough to maintain a site for just such questions. These dedicated breeders (such as Chinchilla Breeders Online) are there to help you keep your chins happy and healthy.

Some things will work for you, that does not work for others and visa versa. Some things will be left up to you alone to learn by trial and error ~ what works best for you and your chin(s). There are a few tried and true rules that stand; attention, observation, cleanliness, proper food and equipment, safety, exercise and last, but definitely not the least and is the most important of all ~ is love.  


CALIFORNIA CHINS
Book THE JOY OF CHINCHILLAS
web site on food, health, & more
devoted to research on chinchillas, education, and
dissemination of infomation and Chinchillas as Pets
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