Accepted Answer

Hello,

It isn't so much that the male chicnhilla 'taught'your females this behavior. Your chinchillas are at the age where they're reaching sexual maturity. Just like human teenagers, chinchillas at this age have fluctuating levels of hormones, and are likely to have have mood changes and strong sexual behavior. Being around the male simply triggered some of this. Most chinchillas will settle down in a few months as their hormones stabilize at adult levels. Such humping is most likely a signal of domination. Many animals, both male and female, will do this to an animal they view as a subordinate. If both of them are doing it, they can't decide who is dominant, and will continue until it is decided. It could even escalate into fights, and if it does, you'll have to separate them. Regardless of the reasons, the behavior is perfectly normal, and there really isn't a way to deal with it. You can't train them not to engage in powerful instinctive behavior. If the humping bothers you, it would be easiest to keep the two females in separate cages.

If you choose that option, I would keep the two in cages that adjoin each other, so they can bond through the wire. Continue to give them time together outside the cages while you supervise. After both have settled down as adults, you can try putting them in a cage together. It may or may not work out, so you do need to be prepared to keep them in separate cages for good if need be.

If you have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	11/4/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant