Introducing a new Chin

[andyv2k14]

So, I got a new chinchilla, another female, about four or five months older than Lilath is now. I have been holding them close for about five days now and yesterday introduced them in a new cage for the first time.

I don't know how to tell if they like each other or not. At first, Lilath kept chasing the new arrival around and climbing on her back (which was mildly entertaining since she is half the size).

Other than that, they touched noses a few times and now they seem to more or less ignore each other and stay in different parts of the cage. My new arrival is more skittish, so she spends a lot of time in the hide, Lilath is very social and enjoys watching what I'm doing.

I moved them apart at night (when I couldn't supervise them). I just want to know if they are getting on, or if they dislike each other.

 

[andyv2k14]

Btw, I was told that getting a younger female and a slight older one was one of the best ways to introduce them. Now they are huddled together at the top of the cage, so i guess they can't hate each other that much. The other worry I have is that the new arrival doesnt eat as much. Lilath tends to push her away from the bowl. Must have short chinchinlla syndrome or something...she seems more aggressive towards others.

 

[Cuddlebug]

Sounds like they are doing fine, but I would continue to keep a close eye on them. I would also get a second bowl for the food since one is being pushed away from the dish. A second water bottle wouldn't hurt either.

 

[andyv2k14]

Thanks. Yeah, they seem to be doing ok now, spending a lot of time cuddling together, what luck that they worked out so easily! It actually works too because what my baby doesnt eat, the other one does, thereby reducing waste. Plus they are sooo adorable together.

 

[Anfsurfer]

Plus they are sooo adorable together.

I don't know if we can take your word for it. We'll need pics to verify this statement.