Help!!!!

[adarnall96]

I just bought a chinchilla last night and i'm scared he wont like me. Will someone please tell me how long I should wait to put him in a room to play and when I can hold him? Thanks!

 

[lauralynne]

Be patient. Spend a few weeks getting to know him and letting him get used to his new surrounds. Talk to him, sing to him, let him get familiar with your voice and the new sounds of his environment.

Later, try putting your hand in his cage. Take it slowly. If you take the time to gain his trust, things will go much more smoothly.

 

[Jenn]

As Laura said, it can take quite a while for a chin to be comfortable in his new surroundings and to feel comfortable with you. The more time you spend with him, he will see you are not a threat, but a friend. Let your chin direct how fast he wants the bonding process to go. Don't try to push it. If he is in a quieter environment, that will help him settle faster. Don't be surprised if he kacks/barks at you at first. It doesn't mean he doesn't like you, just that he is unsure about you. Take your time with him and it will pay off. Some chins, though, never like the idea of being picked up. My chin will let me pet her, she will sit on me, and I can snuggle with her, but she will not let me pick her up. Good luck!

 

[adarnall96]

Thanks to both of yall! I put my hand facedown in his cage and let him take a raisian! and then tried to rub him but no ): Ill try again tom.

 

[Lillybabe]

I agree with what others said. Patience is key. The longer you take to slowly bond the smoother it'll go. If you rush your little chin it'll make your chin fear you. Also playtime depends on the chinchilla's age as well as how long you have had him. Make sure you do very careful chinchilla proofing and monitor playtime closely. Don't leave the room or allow other people in and out where they might step on him. Accidents can happen easily if you aren't careful. However, I think out of the cage play time can happen after a week or two. No need to pick him up. Just get him to crawl into his dustbath, block the hole, and transport to the play area. Then wait until he goes back in the dustbath to travel back. My girls will actually crawl in and out of their carrier sometimes which is handy for cleaning and play.

 

[Jenn]

Thanks to both of yall! I put my hand facedown in his cage and let him take a raisian! and then tried to rub him but no ): Ill try again tom.

That's great! It's a start! But a word of advice, raisins are not good for a chin because of their sugar content. No fruits or veggies. You could offer him plain cheerios or plain shredded wheat, oats, rose hips or some members here sell chinnie approved treats. Just remember that treats aren't going to make the bond, it is your time and patience that will create a strong bond. Keep up the good work!