Do you have to start with a chibi pet in order to zap to get one of these "abominations"? (melting).

nope, you can zap the experiment the normal way (either getting the common, scribble, or chibi version) and if the version you get is not chibi you simply use a chibi potion on it 😊

Chibi Potions are available in the Millionaire Center. They work on all pet species that have a Chibi form. Experiment pets are each their own species, so Chibi will work on those with Chibi forms.

I am not sure that I understand. If it is zapped into a chibi (like the new cuties in the News), then why do I need to buy a chibi potion for it? (sorry I am being so dim, but I am confused)

You have the chance to zap a chibi experiment. If that happens, you are lucky. If you "only" get your favorite experiment (scribble or normal) you will need to use a chibi potion from the MC to turn your experiment into a chibi.

Thank you. Now I understand, I didnt even know you could even use potions on experiments.

Glad I could help ypu ;)

And I think what Solstice meant is that the experiment needs to have a chibi version available if you want to use a (chibi) potion on it :3