If you haven’t noticed already, you pet chinchilla makes lots of different noises. These vocalizations help communicate feelings and provide comfort to your chinchilla. Janice Goode, DVM of Lawrence Animal Hospital in Princeton, N.J. discusses these noises and their meanings.
Common Chinchilla Vocalizations
Goode observed the following chinchilla vocalizations:
Coo: Chinchillas make this noise when they are happy or communicating with one another.
Bark: Chinchillas make this noise when they are upset or scared. You will hear this noise if your chinchilla doesn’t want to be picked up.
Cry: Chinchillas make this noise when they are in pain.
Teeth Chattering: Chinchillas make this noise when they are in pain or feeling threatened; however, sometimes this noise means your chinchilla is content.
Concerns
Observe your pet chinchilla’s vocalizations and the behavior that accompanies them. Once you recognize your chinchilla’s noises, you will be more aware of your chinchilla’s needs.
Don’t be alarmed if your pet chinchilla never vocalizes. This could mean that your chinchilla is already content, and there is no need to make any noise. If your chinchilla is making abnormal noises, or is acting unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.