When you first get a chinchilla, if you haven't studied or learned too much about them, you may be surprised when they start making noises. I'm not just talking about the noises they make when they are playing in their cage or chewing on stuff either. There are a wide range of different vocal noises that your chin may make depending on the situation and how he's feeling.

All chinchillas are different and have a unique voice that you will be able to tell apart from other chins with practice. Because of this, the best way to learn what your little guy wants when he makes certain noises is to spend time with him and get to know his mannerisms.

Once he gets to know you, he will probably start to 'coo' when you come up to the cage and he knows he'll get to come out and play with you. Chinchillas are definitely creatures of habit, and once they see an action enough and relate it to an event, they will start to learn what's going on. For example, you might notice that your chinchilla will make a certain squeak whenever you walk by the cabinet that contains his treats. This is his way of telling you that he's excited to get a snack, whether or not you were planning on giving him one.

You'll probably notice that another noise they make sounds like a really tiny dog barking. This can mean a variety of things depending on your chin's personality, but it usually means there is something wrong. Be warned though, because if he barks to get your attention and you come into the room, he will learn that all he needs to do is bark a bit to get some attention. Then he might start doing it at night and keep you up all night because he thinks it's going to work. So be careful which messages you send.

As you spend time with your chinchilla every day, especially when you let him out of his cage and roam around, you will get to know him better and learn what his individual sounds mean. This will help you understand if he needs something , or if he is just being friendly and welcoming you home. Learning the different noises that your little friend makes is one of the most fun adventures that you'll have with him. So pay attention to him and work hard to earn his trust and companionship.