How to bond with a new chinchilla and stop it from biting my hand?

Thanks for reaching out about Charlie. Stop by slow, calm motions to decrease fright. Offer treats by hand, if you are able to approach him. If not, leave where he can gather them. If he warms up to you, allow him to jump over you, pet him gently, and don't try to force the relationship. Give it time. Good luck.

I am sorry to hear that things are not going ideally with Dikta. Chinchillas can be a bit standoffish, and some of them are not very cuddly. However, let’s see what we can do so you don’t get bitten it peed on as much (if at all). If she likes treats, you may just need to keep making all of your interactions positive through the use if them use caution with treats, however, as many of them have dairy, fruit, or sugar in them and are not healthy for chinchillas. To avoid getting bitten, you can also feed her with feeding tongs, and this will put you further from her which may make it less intimidating. As far as training with her, keep it positive. She sounds like she may be nervous around you, and intimidated, so just keep giving her pieces of food (can even be her pellets if she likes those) whenever you are near her. Don’t try to touch her yet, just the treats until she is coming up to you anytime that you go by. Then begin to approach her by small amounts, and if she doesn’t move away, give her a piece. Then you can continue moving closer and closer over time. Remember to be patient, as this can take a while. I hope that gives you a place to start, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Steward is very cute! IT can take a while for these guys to feel comfortable with people. They are usually hiding and running from other animals. I would recommend trying to find a treat that Steward really likes. Than you can hand feed him the treat a few times a day. I would only allow you to give this specific treat. That way he can start associating you with a positive yummy treat. I would recommend getting him neutered. You are correct that anesthesia on Chinchillas can be higher risk than dogs/cats but if you find an experienced vet who does the procedure often you will most likely have a great outcome! hope that helps

Hulk is probably trying to play with you, as I have never seen chinchillas act in an aggressive manner in this way. Make sure he always has plenty of chew toys, branches, and hay to keep his teeth occupied, and away from your feet!

Hello, and congratulations on your new guinea pigs! Guinea pigs can become very social with humans but it can take some time if they have not had much interactions with humans before. Try to very gradually get them used to you by offering them something tasty such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and commercial treats from your hand. Eventually, they will start to associate your presence with treats, and will be more willing to come out to play. While they are eating a treat from your hand, you can try to gently pet them on the top of their head. Talk to your guinea pigs regularly so they get used to your voice, and ideally put their cage in a room where you are often in, so they get used to your presence as well. They can also learn their names if you use them often enough! Don't try to pick up/hold your guinea pigs until they have some comfort with taking a treat from your hand and putting their front paws on your hand. When you do try to pick them up, hold them snug but not too tight, and always support their bum to avoid falling. I hope this helps! Enjoy your little guys. They are great pets!

Congratulations on your new hamster. I am linking an article here which gives an in depth discussion on methods to try to tame your hamster: http://www.yourpethamster.com/care/taming The key is having patience and persistence. Working at this several times a day and taking it slow to build up your hamster's trust in you. Best of luck to you and Charlie!

Pine cones are not safe for chinchillas. The sap or resins within may cause illness. Safe woods include untreated and dried pine, bamboo, elm and willow. He may be chewing out of curiosity. Continue to provide safe chew toys an d items for Bobby to use. Correct him immediately when he chews inappropriately.