I wouldn't think so... You just have to tote them around in a "bonding pouch" for a few weeks... Don't know if this is just with the small babies though or if it applies to all. I do know they're nocturnal. Everyone that I know that's had one has liked it.

I have enough to deal with already with my rats.. Otherwise I'd look into one myself and if I wasn't allergic to hay, I'd definitely get a chinchilla.