FAQ

We often get asked similar questions about our cats so have added this Frequently Asked Questions page which we hope you find useful. Beneath the questions we have also detailed the GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy) official standard of points for the Chinchilla Show Cat.

Do they make good pets?

Although people often choose Chinchillas because of their striking looks, they soon find that they are affectionate cats and often more lively than Persians.

Do they get on with other cats?

Yes, Chinchillas do get on well with other cats and should really be given a companion if left during the working day.

What colours do they come in?

We actually get asked this question a lot. The Chinchilla is a distinctive one-colour breed – they are in fact called Silver Persians in the US. The coat is white, tipped with black to give that silvery, sparkling appearance. Tipping density can vary, with some cats appearing slightly darker than those with less tipping, but the Chinchilla is never pure white.

I want a pure white Chinchilla.

This links with the above question and is another request we frequently get. As in the answer above, some Chinchillas are paler than others, but never pure white. A pure white Persian is a completely different variety, much larger boned, with pure white coat, orange or blue eyed, with none of the ‘eye make-up’ and pencilling round the nose and lips of the Chinchilla.

Is the Chinchilla the kind of cat I can allow outside to come and go as it pleases?

Most definitely not. We consider that the Chinchilla is a house cat and should definitely not be allowed to wander. They are definitely not ‘street-wise’, would be a target for stealing plus their flowing coats would soon be in a state! Our cats have been house cats for generations, are happy with company and toys and only if you have a very enclosed garden should you feel able to let one out.

I’d like to show – what should I look for?

Chinchillas are born dark and often show tabby markings, but these disappear as the coat grows. Some breeders say that the darkest kitten often makes the best adult cat. Usually, by the time prospective owners are viewing them, they will be looking much more like real Chinchillas. Choosing a show potential kitten, however, needs expert knowledge. The structure of the face, tiny, well placed ears, snub nose with a good break, good chin and bite. The coat should show no tabby markings at all, the dark tipping should be even and solid black and the undercoat is pure white with no hint of cream and the chest, stomach and chin are all white. The nose should be a brick red or deep rose pink with good pigmentation. Eyes and lips should be outlined in black.

A cat show is a beauty contest and even with a stunning cat, judges will mark down a poorly prepared cat!

What preparation is required when showing a kitten or cat?

A show Chinchilla’s coat will be carefully scrutinised for preparation, condition and confirmation to the show standard. The quality show Chinchilla will have been bathed, blow-dried, combed and powdered with great care, every hair lifted and seperated. The eyes should be clean, with no stains.

Are Chinchillas fussy eaters or difficult to feed?

Not as a rule. Like any animal (or person!) they have individual likes and dislikes. We try and get our kittens onto a diet of good dried quality food (e.g. Royal Canin Persian 30, Hills or Iams), home cooked chicken and fish, plus tinned food, though sometimes the ‘gravy’ varieties can cause upset stomachs. Milk should not be given – fresh water only.

Which sex make better pets, boys or girls?

Neither! Every kitten has its own personality and this should be taken into account when choosing a kitten. If your household is lively with chidren etc it is no use falling in love with the shy one of the litter.

I want a female kitten as I’ve heard males spray.

This is a complete fallacy. If you have a male kitten neutered at 6 months old, before he reaches sexual maturity and becomes territorial, he should not spray. Equally so, a female which has reached sexual maturity and has not been spayed or mated will spray every bit as much as a male.

At what age should I get my kitten neutered?

It is always advisable to consult your vet, but as a general rule, a kitten should be neutered at approximately 6 months old.

*** GCCF Official Standard of Points for the Chinchilla Show Cat ***

Though the written standard may look very similar to that of the Persian, the Chinchilla has a look all of its own.

Coat: Long and flowing, dense but silky in texture. Extra long on ruff.

Colour: The undercoat is pure white. The coat on flanks, back, ears, head and tail is tipped with black. The chest, stomach and ear tufts are pure white.

Head: Broad and round with good breadth between the small, well tufted ears. Wide at the muzzle, snub nose.

Body: Cobby with short, thick legs.

Eyes: Large, round and expressive. Green or green-blue.

*** GCCF Registration policy for Persian Longhair Chinchilla, Golden and Shaded Silver Cats ***

One Response to FAQ

  1. Eleanor says:

    Hello, your cats look beautiful.
    I’m interested to know what kittens you may have available. I am an experienced Persian/Chinchilla owner. I have a year old neutered male and would love a companion for him. My cats are indoor but as I live in the country with an enormous secluded garden, I have a large garden cattery pen which my cats live to sit in and watch the garden wild life. It also has a purpose built chalet with 2 storys and beds inside and out
    Looking forward to hearing from you,
    Eleanor

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