Chinchillas make a wide range of sounds, and some are actually quite noisy. Once you have had your chin for a while you will begin to learn what their individual sounds mean. Keep in mind not all chins will make the same sounds as other chins, and some chins are actually pretty quite.

Chinchilla sounds and common associations of their meaning:

- General Talk/Chatter - Sounds like soft squeaks, and is usually a sign of contentment. Some chins will make this noise when they are longing for a friend.

- Mating – The male will make several barking/squeaking sound, stomp his back feet and swish his tail in hopes of attracting a female. After successfully mating, the male will make a sound like hiccups

- Teeth Grinding – this is a sign of nervousness and irritation

- Alarm – This sound can be very scary the first time you hear it as it's a loud “scream” that is used to warn other chinchillas. Sometimes chins will use this call to get attention from owners as well.

- Agitation – When a chin is irritated for whatever reason they will sometimes emit an angry “chirp”

Don't worry if your chin seems to be on the quiet side, some chins just don't make a lot of noises.