https://www.chewy.com/education/small-pet/chinchilla/an-answer-to-why-chinchillas-bite
*With their soft fur and sensitive systems, chinchillas require specialized care. The Chinchilla Education Hub includes guides on dust baths, diet, temperature control, and cage enrichment—helping you meet your chinchilla’s unique needs with confidence.
In the wild, chinchillas rely on quick escapes and hiding in rocky burrows to stay safe from predators.
When kept in a cage without those natural escape routes, they can feel vulnerable and trapped, sometimes leading to defensive biting - especially if they are startled or handled abruptly.
Their sharp front teeth can deliver surprisingly painful bites, so it is crucial to create an environment where your chinchilla feels secure and in control.
Providing a house with multiple exits allows your chinchilla to retreat comfortably without feeling cornered, significantly reducing their stress and fear.
Building trust with a chinchilla is a delicate and rewarding process that requires patience, gentleness, and respect for their natural instincts.
Moving slowly and allowing your chinchilla to approach you on its own terms encourages curiosity and helps foster a deep bond over time.
Being mindful of items like jewelry, fingernails, or scars that might draw unwanted attention helps keep interactions calm and safe for both you and your pet.
Chewy editorial team is dedicated to sharing these insights to support you in creating a loving, trusting relationship with your chinchilla - one built on understanding, kindness, and gentle care.
