Chinchilla

The Chinchilla cat breed is a type of Persian and there is some overlap between the Chinchilla cat type and other Persian Longhairs, so many of the problems of the Persian cat can also occur in the Chinchilla cat breed. Because the head shape has been shortened and the face flattened, there can be jaw deformities which can lead to dental disease and potential problems with eating and drinking. Small nostrils and a soft palate which is too long can also lead to severe breathing problems. The tear ducts may not follow their natural path and so the eyes run and wet the face constantly – this can lead to skin rashes and sores on the face. The flat nature of face also increases the chances of eye disease. Persians can carry a gene that leads to kidney failure (called autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease) through the development of cysts in the kidney. This condition was found in more than a third of all Persian cats and Exotic shorthaired cats in the 1990s when screening tests became available and although it seemed less prevalent in Chinchillas, it was still there. Using screening, breeders are now working to try to eradicate the problem – always ask the breeder to show the PKD certificates for the cats used to produce your kitten.

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

The Chinchilla cat breed requires daily grooming to keep its long flowing coat free from mats and knots. Failure to keep the coat tangle free can lead to the cat having to be clipped all over and the coat allowed to regrow. These areas need to be cleaned daily to avoid staining. Chinchilla cat's eyes tend to run and the corner of the eye and side of the nose will need regular cleaning. The bottom area and underside of the tail is prone to becoming soiled with faeces and care needs to be taken to keep this area scrupulously clean to avoid staining and uncomfortable lumps. As with all cats, regular vaccination and parasite control is recommended.

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.