Things You'll Need:
- 2 cages
- 2 Hiding Places such as plastic pet houses or large cardboard tubes
- Chinchilla Sand Bath
- Timothy Hay
-
Step 1
When first introducing one chinchilla to another, the most important thing to know is that chinchillas are territorial animals. If you just throw two of these animals into a cage together they will fight and hurt one another. The proper way to introduce chinchillas is to take things slowly. The first step is to keep them in separate cages and place the cages next to each other. This way the chinchillas are able to see one another and get used to the idea of another animal in their territory. They will be very interested in each other and will spend a lot of time looking, smelling, and making noise (talking) at the other.
-
Step 2
Once the chinchillas have had a day or two to get used to one another from afar, it's time to prepare the cage for the two to live together. It is imperative that each chinchilla has its own hiding place. Pet stores sell plastic pet houses that are perfect for these animals. When they have a hiding place they feel safe and are able to retreat to it when they are intimidated. Place both of the pet houses in the same cage. Also supply the cage with plenty of Timothy Hay, as they will feel more comfortable with something to chew on and occupy their time.
-
Step 3
Next, give both chinchillas their sand/dust bath separately so that they both have the same scent. This will help them accept one another better since they will be familiar with each other's scents.
-
Step 4
Finally, it's time to put them together in the same cage. Place one chinchilla in the cage and let him get acquainted with the cage set up. While the first chinchilla is checking out the cage, place the second chinchilla in the sand bath container and place the entire container into the cage. This will immediately give the second chinchilla a hiding place and make him feel more comfortable because he is familiar with the sand container. When he is ready he will get out of the container and begin checking out the cage and other chinchilla.
-
Step 5
There will most likely be some squabbling and dominance issues. Each chinchilla is going to try to show one another "who's boss". They will figure this out on their own. They will make a lot of noise, chase each other around, and will probably be on their hind legs most of the first few minutes they are together. Standing up on their hind legs is part of showing their dominance. It may take a while for them to come to a conclusion about "Who's Boss", but it will happen.
-
Step 6
Once things settle down your chinchillas will be glad to have a playmate. They will play with one another and keep each other company while you're sleeping, since they are nocturnal animals. The work is worth the reward to see your pets happy and with companionship. You will begin to see them snuggle with one another which is a true sign that they are getting along and are glad to have a mate.
