Can neutering make my biting chinchilla affectionate and is it safe?

Be patient. Allow him to acclimate to you gradually. Start by simply sitting next to his cage for ever increasing periods of time. Move slowly and talk softly around him. Progress to placing your hand in the cage, again for ever increasing periods of time, until he gets used to you. Wash your hands thoroughly before to remove all scents of food or treats. End each session with a small treat or reward. Do not attempt to hold him or force him to do anything. If he is curious about your hand in the cage, let him smell you and crawl on you. If he nips or bites, take your hand away and try again after he settles down. He will soon begin to realize you are the one providing food, water, toys and treats and then will begin to respond to your presence.

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!

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.

Without a physical exam, it is difficult to say if there are other options. Discuss your concerns with your veterinarian. Consider a second opinion with a vet experienced in treating chinchillas. A soft diet may an option once the dental disease is addressed.

I am sorry to hear that he hurt himself. Hopefully it is not a bad wound, but the only way to really evaluate it well would be to have a sedated oral exam. I am worried that he may have fractured a tooth. If he will let you ice pack his face it may be helpful with any discomfort. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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!

It is possible to have your rat neutered. Find a veterinarian who treats exotics/rats regularly and this should be no problem. Here is some good info: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/neutering-in-rats