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  • Mexican Hairless Cat Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts – Catster

    Mexican Hairless Cat Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts – Catster

    We’ve all heard of the Sphynx, yes? You know, the classic hairless cat that steals the show everywhere they go? But did you know that there is another hairless cat breed that is thought to precede the Sphynx?

    The breed is known as the Mexican Hairless Cat. Although, this cat is actually extinct (if it even existed at all), so note that the height, weight, etc., is just speculation based on similar breeds such as the Sphynx that still exist today.

    Breed Overview

    Colors:

    Cream/brown/gray skin (hairless)

    Suitable for:

    Active families, homes with multiple pets or children

    Temperament:

    Affectionate, curious, intelligent, friendly, energetic

    The Mexican Hairless Cat is also known as the Aztec Cat or the New Mexican Hairless Cat. While rumors are flying of possibly revamping of the breed—they are all just whispers in the wind. Here’s what we know and think about the Mexican Hairless Cat in this article.

    Mexican Hairless Cat Characteristics

    Energy

    +

    A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.

    Trainability

    +

    Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.

    Health

    +

    Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.

    Lifespan

    +

    Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.

    Sociability

    +

    Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.

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    The Earliest Records of Mexican Hairless Cats in History

    The Mexican Hairless Cat was first documented in 1902 by Mr. E.J. Shinick, who owned a pair of hairless cats, a male and a female. Mr. Shinick lived in New Mexico, and he supposedly got the cats from local Native Americans of the Pueblo tribe and was told that they were the last remaining ancient cats of the Aztecs.

    Although these weren’t the only hairless cats in America at the time, they were well known because of their origins and the mystery surrounding them.

    How Mexican Hairless Cats Gained Popularity

    The Mexican Hairless Cat gained popularity after word got out that these cats were the last of a hairless Aztec breed. The press got wind of the cats, and since hairless cats were an oddity at the time and the cats didn’t have a pedigree, they quickly became a curiosity among the general public.

    They were called Mexican Hairless Cats, New Mexican Hairless Cats, and Aztec Cats due to their mysterious origins. However, it is unclear whether these cats really were the last of an Aztec breed, or if that was a story that was told in order to make them seem more exotic when they were really just the result of a random genetic mutation like other hairless cats.

    Unfortunately, Mr. Shinick never bred his two cats, and the cats had both passed by 1908. So, if these really were an Aztec breed, that was the last of them.

    However, other hairless cats were born due to a natural genetic mutation, and eventually hairless cats were bred intentionally, with the Sphynx breed originating in 1966 due to selectively breeding a natural-born hairless cat with a domestic shorthair, and then breeding that offspring with other hairless cats to ensure more genetic diversity in the breed. Hairless cats are still super popular today, even if they aren’t Mexican Hairless Cats.

    Attempts to Revive the Mexican Hairless Cat

    Although there are rumors around the web that people are trying to revitalize the Mexican Hairless cat, no solid evidence has really come up that this was even a distinct breed. Some cat fanciers may have tried to revitalize or recreate the breed, but nothing has been openly successful, and any attempts to revive it are mostly just speculation.

    The Mexican Hairless Cat might not be around these days, but they certainly paved the way for the other hairless cuties we know and love. Breeds like the Sphynx, Bambino, and Peterbald allow you to have a similar breed to the Mexican Hairless Cat, and these breeds have been well-researched and genetically tested to ensure that they will be around for a long time.

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    Top 3 Unique Facts About Hairless Cats

    1. They Require Special Skin Care

    It makes sense when you think about it, since these cats don’t have a coat of fur to protect them. As such, you have to keep a sweater or some other kind of sun protection on them to prevent sunburn as well as keep their skin wiped down to keep it clean and moisturized. If you’re interested in owning one of these cats, speak to your vet about how to care for their skin, and never use human sunscreen on a cat.


    2. Some Actually Have a Thin Coat of Hair

    Even though they are called hairless cats, some of them actually have a very thin layer of light-colored hair, or “fuzz.” This layer will often be white or gray in color. But they still require special care for their skin even if they have a thin coat of hair.


    3. They Are Not 100% Hypoallergenic

    Hairless cats are often marketed as being better for people with allergies due to the fact that they don’t shed. However, cat allergies are due to a protein found in a cat’s dander, saliva, and urine, so a cat can still trigger allergies even if they don’t have fur, and no cat is 100% hypoallergenic. But a hairless cat is still a good choice if you don’t want cat hair everywhere.

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    Is a Hairless Cat Breed Right for You?

    Owning a hairless cat might be very different from the regular felines you’re used to. You might not have ever even met someone who owns a hairless cat, and it’s simply the idea of them that piques your interest. We don’t blame you!

    Hairless cats certainly are unique specimens. However, there are two sides to everything and there are downfalls to owning a hairless cat just as there are benefits. Here are some of them now, but we definitely recommend that you read up on different hairless cat breeds before committing to make sure you are well-informed.

    Positives of Hairless Cats

    Hairless cats are pretty cool, if we do say so ourselves. They have a one of the kind appearance and definitely put a new spin on cat ownership.

    Hairless cats tend to be very friendly and outgoing. They make the best candidates for people who have frequent visitors. Inquisitive and eager to learn, most hairless cats are the life of the party. They are real brainiacs capable of learning simple to complex concepts. They can be leash and command trained.

    Hairless cats make amazing companion animals to almost any living situation. They get along very well with cats and dogs—as long as they are socialized properly. With mannerly kids, hairless cats also quite enjoy the company and exuberance of children—they love to play!

    Downfalls of Hairless Cats

    Hairless cats are known for their numerous health issues. A majority of cases involved some type of gastrointestinal upset, as these cats are notoriously sensitive.

    If you’ve ever seen the price of hairless cats, you know it’s definitely not a cheap number! These cats are pricey! A Sphynx alone can cost upwards of $6,000 for a healthy bloodline. If you get a specialized cat like the Munchkin Sphynx mix, also known as the Bambino, you might even pay more than that!

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    Conclusion

    Now you understand that the Mexican Hairless Cat is a breed that was thought to stem from ancient Aztec cats. However, the breed simply didn’t survive through the years and is thought to be extinct. Instead, we have other hairless cats today that have totally stolen the show.

    Of all the things you learned about hairless cats, what fact was your favorite?


    Featured Image Credit: Anthony Aldum, Shutterstock

    Catster Editorial Team

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  • White Persian Cat: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures) – Catster

    White Persian Cat: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures) – Catster

    Persian Cats come in a variety of colors, and each coat type has unique charm and appeal. White Persian Cats are some of the most popular. They are known for having a luxurious appearance, and many cat lovers are attracted to their fluffy, long coats.

    Along with their adorable appearance, white Persian Cats have sweet personalities and love giving and receiving affection. This combination of traits has made them one of the most popular and recognized cat breeds.

    Breed Overview

    Suitable for:

    Families with children, seniors, families with multiple pets

    Temperament:

    Affectionate, easygoing, sociable

    Other than appearance, there are no definitive traits that differentiate white Persian Cats from Persian Cats with other coat colors. White Persian Cats are charming pets that break many negative cat stereotypes. They’re known to be extremely friendly, and many aren’t shy around strangers. These sweet cats also have easygoing and good-natured personalities, so it’s no surprise that they’re popular pets.

    White Persian Cat Characteristics

    Energy

    +

    A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.

    Trainability

    +

    Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.

    Health

    +

    Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.

    Lifespan

    +

    Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.

    Sociability

    +

    Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.

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    The Earliest Records of White Persian Cat in History

    It’s not clear when the first white Persian Cat appeared. However, Persian Cats are generally recognized as an old cat breed that came into existence around the 1600s. They originate from Persia, which is now modern-day Iran, and were introduced to Europe sometime in the 1800s when it is thought that they came over on spice caravans during the spice trade.

    White Persian Cats eventually made their way to the US in the late 1800s. White Persian Cats were also involved in breeding new cat breeds. Exotic Shorthairs and Himalayan Cats are both examples of cat breeds that involved white Persian Cats in their development.

    White Persian Cat sitting on a blue background
    Image Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock

    How White Persian Cats Gained Popularity

    It almost seems like white Persian Cats were always popular. But they became exceptionally popular after they earned the favor of Queen Victoria, who owned several Persian Cats. They were also exhibited at the world’s first organized cat show.1 This cat show took place at the Crystal Palace in London in 1871, and a Persian Cat took the crown for “Best in Show.”

    It’s possible that white Persian Cats continued to remain popular due to the significant number of celebrities and public figures being fans of Persian Cats. Elizabeth Taylor, Freddie Mercury, and Martha Stewart are just a few celebrities who are known to have loved Persian Cats or owned one.

    In 2008, Persian Cats were the most popular cat breed in the US. The breed continues to be among the most popular cat breeds, with the white Persian Cat being the most recognizable among Persian Cats.

    Formal Recognition of White Persian Cats

    White Persian Cats are recognized by many cat clubs and associations around the world. They were formally recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1906 and The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1979.

    While most organizations recognize Persian Cats as a distinct breed, their categorizations differ for Himalayan Cats and Exotic Shorthairs. Some organizations classify these breeds as variations of Persian Cats, while others recognize them as distinct breeds. For example, TICA categorizes Himalayan Cats and Exotic Shorthairs as Persian Cat variants. Meanwhile, the World Cat Federation (WCF) recognizes Persian Cats and Exotic Shorthairs as distinct breeds.

    white Persian cat sitting in on owner lap hand
    Image Credit: Stella_E, Shutterstock

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    Top 3 Unique Facts About White Persian Cats

    1. White Persian Cats didn’t always have flat faces.

    The look of white Persian Cats changed sometime in the 1950s. Kittens in a litter of Persian Cats had a gene mutation that gave them flat faces. This look became favorable, and more Persian Cats with flat faces appeared through selective breeding. This appearance is eventually what became accepted and included in the breed’s official standards.


    2. White Persian Cats may be more susceptible to sunburn.

    White Persian Cats may have a higher risk of getting sunburn than other types of Persian Cats. This is because animals with white hair and pink skin produce less melanin than animals with darker skin color.

    White persian cat walking on green grass
    Image Credit: ANURAK PONGPATIMET, Shutterstock

    3. White Persian Cats are included in the world’s largest cat painting.

    “My Wife’s Lovers” by Austrian artist Carl Kahler holds the record for the largest cat painting in the world. The painting depicts 42 cats and has a mix of Persian Cats and Turkish Angoras. You’ll find many white Persian Cats painted in various poses all across the canvas. Prior to this painting, Kahler had never painted a cat. So, he studied cats’ poses and habits for 3 years before starting this masterpiece.

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    Does a White Persian Cat Make a Good Pet?

    white persian cat sitting on the senior woman's lap
    Image Credit: masary78, Shutterstock

    White Persian Cats make wonderful companion pets, and they can be a good choice for novice cat owners, the elderly, and apartment living. White Persian Cats have gentle and easygoing temperaments. They’re not the most active or playful cats, and they’re not known to climb very high. They much prefer cuddling and being lap cats.

    While white Persian Cats aren’t aggressive, they may not always be a good fit for families with particularly young children. They don’t like loud noises and activities, and things like kids running around the house can stress them out. Therefore, children must learn how to be respectful of the cat’s boundaries because too much noise or activity can stress out white Persian Cats.

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    Conclusion

    It seems like white Persian Cats have been popular ever since they were first bred. This comes as no surprise as they’re very charming and gentle cats. They enjoy human companionship, but they’re not extremely needy or demanding. They just like being around their favorite people and will give as much love and attention as they receive from their family members.


    Featured Image Credit: Suriyawut Suriya, Shutterstock

    Jessica Kim

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  • Harlequin Cat: Pictures, Rarity & History – Catster

    Harlequin Cat: Pictures, Rarity & History – Catster


    A harlequin cat has a specific coat coloration that sets them apart from other felines. They’re primarily white, with only around 25% of another color. They tend to have large, irregular patches of another color, though this other color can be anything at all. Sometimes, harlequin cats even have tabby markings in their colored patches.

    This coloration solely refers to a cat’s coat color. It is not a particular breed, though this color does only occur in certain breeds.

    Because harlequin cats do not belong to a specific breed, their size, and temperament are completely up in the air. You cannot tell how large a cat will grow or what they will act like based on their coloration. Luckily, unlike harlequin dogs, these cats don’t have more health problems than other felines. Furthermore, harlequin cats are much more common than harlequin dogs.

    Let’s learn more about this unique cat color.

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    Earliest Records of the Harlequin Cat in History

    Cats have had a decent amount of white in their coat since the beginning of their domestication. We don’t know exactly when these felines appeared, as people did not keep records of cat coloration thousands of years ago.

    You can often find cats with over 50% of their coat white in your local shelter, though not all breeds will exhibit this coat coloration. In some specific breeds, it may also be rare. It largely depends on the exact breed we’re discussing.

    We do have pictures of cats with over 50% of their coats white, dating to the 10th century in Europe. Therefore, these cats have existed since at least then. That said, they were probably around much earlier than that.

    Harlequin cat
    Image Credit: akirEVarga, Pixabay

    How the Harlequin Cat Gained Popularity

    The harlequin cat is a striking, unique pattern that many people are drawn to. However, it isn’t more common than other coat types.

    These cats probably developed pretty naturally throughout the years. Because these cats aren’t rare, it’s likely that they didn’t need to be particularly chosen by humans. They weren’t selectively bred for their traits like certain cat breeds. Instead, harlequin cats probably just become more common over time through natural breeding.

    Formal Recognition of Harlequin Cats

    Harlequin cats are recognized by practically every cat fancy club out there. However, the exact specification and name used to identify this coloration varies.

    For instance, the Governing Council of Cat Fancy defines harlequin cats as having more white than bi-colored cats but not as much white as the van pattern. As you might guess, there is a lot of personal preference at play here, and the lines can get smudged. You cannot measure the exact proportion of white on a cat’s coat very successfully, after all.

    That said, they do say that the cat should be predominately white. In other words, a cat should be at least 60% white to be considered in this category. These standards only recognize certain cats as coming in this coloration, as well. Snowshoe and oriental shorthairs are two of the breeds that do.

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    Top 3 Unique Facts About Harlequin Cats

    These cats may not be very rare, but there are some facts that you may not know about them:

    1. These cats are all unique.

    No two Harlequin cats are the same. They each have a different pattern, which can vary quite a bit. Preferably, each spot should be larger than a thumbprint, but that’s all that the standard says about this coloration’s specific pattern.


    2. The genetics behind this color aren’t fully understood.

    Each cat is unique largely because there are many genetics at play. We don’t understand exactly how these genes work, so breeders cannot breed for specific patterns. The piebald gene that leads to this pattern has several variations in itself, and there are several additional genes that play a role, too. Therefore, the intensity and pattern range widely from cat to cat.


    3. What counts as a harlequin cat depends on who you ask.

    Typically, a harlequin cat is between a bicolor cat (which is a feline with about 50% white) and a van cat (which is a cat that’s almost completely white). However, these specific proportions are hard to measure on a cat, which leads to some cats being identified as having several different colorations. In many cases, it may depend on who you ask.

    a harlequin cat outdoors wearing a collar with a bell
    Image Credit: MR.WICHAI THONGTAPE, Shutterstock

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    Does a Harlequin Cat Make a Good Pet?

    We don’t recommend basing your adoption decision on a cat’s coat color. Despite some common misconceptions, coat colors do not typically have an effect on a cat’s temperament or health. Harlequin cats may look unique, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that every harlequin cat is suitable for your home. The cat’s health and temperament are far bigger factors than what the cat looks like.

    If you’re adopting from a shelter, take time to get to know the cat and ask those who work there about the feline’s temperament. If possible, get information about the cat’s past life and health records, too. Most rescue organizations will give the feline all the healthcare they need, but it is always good to check!

    If you’re purchasing a kitten, be sure that the breeder isn’t marking up their cats due to the “rarity” of the harlequin coloration. Even if the breeder doesn’t mark up their kittens, ensure that they breed for temperament and health—not just coat color. Perform all of the usual steps you would take to ensure that a breeder is producing quality kittens.

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    Conclusion

    Harlequin cats aren’t a particular breed, and exactly what counts as a harlequin cat can vary.

    Luckily, these cats don’t seem to have extra health problems, as is true for harlequin dogs. You can expect a harlequin cat to be just as healthy as any other cat without any added chance of deafness or vision problems.

    While we don’t typically recommend harlequin dogs to the average owner, we can recommend harlequin cats wholeheartedly.


    Featured Image Credit: doypui, Shutterstock



    Kristin Hitchcock

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  • Chinchilla Cat: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info – Catster

    Chinchilla Cat: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info – Catster

    A Chinchilla cat is not a separate cat breed or an unlikely mix. Instead, this term refers to a specific coat type of the Persian cat.

    Persians are known for their long, luxurious fur, which Chinchilla cats also have. Their fluffy coat is short and dense, like a Chinchilla’s, so this term does make some sense. However, what really sets this breed apart is its silvery-white coat with very subtle tipping.

    Height: 9–10 inches
    Weight: 7–16 pounds
    Lifespan: 12–15 years
    Colors: Silvery white with some tipping
    Suitable for: Those looking for a gentle feline
    Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, calm

    Chinchilla cats almost exclusively have emerald eyes. Their eyes are also pretty round and green, making them stand out.

    While these cats tend to be pretty healthy, they are prone to some health issues. Their shortened snouts make them brachycephalic, which means that they have some trouble breathing. That’s one reason they tend to be less hyperactive. They become out of breath faster than other cats. Some have more extreme versions of this condition than others.

    These felines also require grooming to keep their fluffy, poofy coat unmatted. Otherwise, they can be prone to mats and sores.

    Chinchilla Cat Breed Characteristics

    • Energy: 2/5
    • Trainability: 3/5
    • Health: 3/5
    • Lifespan: 4/5
    • Sociability: 4/5

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    Chinchilla Kittens

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    Image Credit: olgadiukareva,Shutterstock

    Chinchilla kittens are bundles of fluffy fur. They’re exceptionally cute and love to play, even though they tend to calm down rather quickly. They do have luxurious fur at this age, but it tends to be shorter. It takes a few months to grow out, though it’s still important to start grooming right away. Getting your cat used to grooming sessions now will make your life much easier later.

    Finding one of these cats can be a bit of a challenge. They are a very particular color of a more common breed, so you may have to wait around for a kitten if you’re set on this color in particular. You won’t find these cats hanging about your average shelter, so working with a breeder is a must. You’ll probably have to find one that specializes in this coloration particularly.

    Of course, be sure you also prioritize ethical breeding practices—not just the appearance of a kitten. Health testing and socialization are important.

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    Temperament & Intelligence of the Chinchilla Cat

    Chinchilla cats tend to be pretty calm and quiet. They have quiet meows and don’t tend to do it often. They’re much less boisterous than other breeds, making them better suited for seniors and those who have a more peaceful household.

    While these cats are pretty laidback cats, they’re still cats. They tend to be pretty clever, for instance. They’re capable of learning tricks if you can motivate them enough. However, the issue is that motivating them is often a challenge, as they are very laid back. It takes a lot to make them engage.

    These cats often work best in homes that are pretty peaceful. They can be prone to stress and anxiety if things are too loud and active. After all, they thrive on routine and predictability. Homes with toddlers and regular schedule changes probably won’t be the best homes for these felines.

    Despite being very laid back, they are not aloof. They’re fairly people-oriented, bonding deeply with their families. They don’t tend to be very friendly with strangers, though. They prefer those that they know, and they may hide when strangers come into the home.

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    Image Credit: OksanaSusoeva, Shutterstock

    Are These Cats Good for Families? 👪

    These cats can be good for the right family. Homes with older children are best, as they can be easily overwhelmed by the antics of a toddler. They are very cuddly and prefer more laidback playtimes, so they’re best for those who want a lap cat. Don’t expect them to be very active. Of course, this also makes them good for small homes, as they don’t need tons of space.

    These cats also aren’t noisy, which is always a plus. They don’t usually do well in homes that tend to be loud or frantic. They’re more sensitive to loudness than other breeds. Consider the ages of your children and any other pets you may have. A loud, yappy dog may not be a good companion for this feline.

    Of course, you also have to consider their grooming needs. These cats do need quite a bit of grooming, which does take time out of your daily schedule.

    Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

    If the other pets are calm and introduced properly, Chinchilla cats tend to get along with them just fine. Gentle, well-socialized dogs are best, especially if they share a similar temperament to Chinchilla cats. Older, calmer cats are also a good choice. Other Persians can make great companions for these felines, but you may want to avoid cats that are more active.

    Some small pets, like rabbits, may also be suitable. Of course, you’ll have to always supervise these two animals together, but Chinchillas do tend to have a lower prey drive than other cats.

    Any type of loud, boisterous animal can upset a Chinchilla cat. These felines were just not made for that level of excitement. They can easily become stressed by loud, yappy dogs, for instance. Large dogs and playful cats can quickly become too much for Chinchilla cats to handle.

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    Image Credit: Jacintne Udvarlaki, Shutterstock

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    Things to Know When Owning a Chinchilla Cat

    Food & Diet Requirements 🐡

    Chinchilla Persians require a high-quality diet. However, they typically do well on any high-quality cat food and rarely need a special diet. Look for foods that are meat-based and designed for your cat’s life stage.

    Kittens should consume a formula designed for kittens. Once your Persian stops growing, you can switch to an adult food. You don’t necessarily have to switch to a senior food at any point. However, it can be helpful for cats that have age-related health problems, like arthritis. We recommend looking for a formula with added omega fatty acids, as these can help promote a healthy skin and shiny coat. Many vets also recommend supplementing with wet food, at least to increase your cat’s hydration. Many felines are prone to dehydration, which can cause UTIs and similar problems.

    Ensure that your cat always has access to fresh water. You may need to use a water fountain to make the water move, as some cats are very picky about the freshness of the water. Chinchilla cats are prone to obesity, as they tend to be rather lazy. Be sure to give your cat appropriate portions and consider switching to a diet food if your cat is still overweight. Obesity can cause all sorts of health issues, so it’s important to avoid it.

    These felines can also be prone to hairballs thanks to their long fur. Proper grooming can help prevent this, as it can remove some of the excess fur. However, you may need to switch to a hairball-control formula if your cat is particularly prone to hairballs.

    Exercise 🐈

    Chinchilla cats are not high-energy athletes. However, they still need exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Most will move around by themselves, but others may need some encouragement. Interactive toys like feather teasers can help spark your cat’s playful side and encourage running around. You probably won’t need to play for more than 5 to 10 minutes, as they tend to tire quickly. That said, aim to encourage play at least twice a day, though your cat may not always take you up on that offer.

    Include climbing structures in your home, like cat towers and scratching posts. These encourage movement and exercise without requiring any effort on your part. Even if your cat doesn’t like to play, they may like to climb to the top of the tower for a nap.

    Respect their limits, as these cats just aren’t built for rigorous play. You should encourage them to move, but don’t be surprised if they only pounce a few times before tiring. These are not very active cats, and it’s often pretty obvious during these play sessions.  Don’t forget to include mental stimulation, too. These felines do well with food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys. Be careful not to overfeed them, though. Any calories added through these toys should be subtracted from their food.

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    Image Credit: ZAHRA22, Shutterstock

    Training 🧶

    Persian cats are not the most trainable felines out there. However, they are decently intelligent. It’s mostly about catching their interest and holding their attention for a long enough time to teach them anything.

    Don’t scold or punish your feline for behaving badly, as this only encourages them to ignore you more. Instead, use positive reinforcement to reward any sort of positive behavior. You should start very small and keep sessions very short. Often, Chinchilla cats can only focus their attention for 5–10 minutes at a time.

    Patience is exceptionally important with these cats. They aren’t going to learn anything overnight. It’s important to keep training fun and use healthy treats to motivate them. They’re often very food-driven, which can be helpful.

    Consistency is more important than longer sessions. If you do several shorter sessions throughout the day, your cat will learn far more.

    Grooming ✂️

    Chinchilla cats are one of the few out there that require a lot of grooming. You’ll need to use a slicker brush and metal comb to work through their coat every day. Otherwise, they may be prone to matting and tangling. This isn’t just a matter of aesthetics, as mats and tangles can lead to sores and other issues.

    Regular brushing also helps keep their fur clean, removing dirt and debris. Luckily, these cats are pretty good at grooming themselves. Therefore, you won’t have to deal with baths, especially if you stay on top of their brushing needs.

    Occasionally, you may also want to trim their paws. This fur can get particularly dirty and is prone to getting tangled in their claws. Keeping it neat and groomed can help make the rest of your grooming session easier. These cats often need their faces cleaned, too. We recommend investing in some quality cat wipes and using them to clean your feline’s face as needed. They tend to get food stuck around their mouths, which they can have a hard time cleaning.

    Of course, you should also brush their teeth to prevent dental issues. Cats are sadly very prone to teeth problems, which can be very serious. Brushing is an easy way to prevent this problem.

    Chinchilla Persian Cat Licking Paw GroomingChinchilla Persian Cat Licking Paw Grooming
    Image Credit: catinsyrup, Shutterstock

    Health and Conditions 🏥

    These cats are generally pretty healthy. However, they are prone to a few health conditions.

    Due to their flat faces, these cats often have difficulty breathing. Often, this is most obvious in hot weather or during playtime. You may notice that these cats snort regularly and may get labored breathing easier than other cats. Typically, this isn’t anything to be worried about. However, it does make these cats more prone to heat stroke and similar conditions.

    These felines are also prone to polycystic kidney disease. This inherited condition causes cysts to form in the kidneys and is eventually deadly. It’s completely genetic, and health testing will prevent kittens from developing it. That’s one reason why going through a quality breeder is so important.

    Their prominent eyes are also prone to corneal ulcers and other issues. They stick out a bit, which makes them more likely to hit something. Luckily, most cats do just fine, but you may end up at the vet for eye issues more often.

    Often, Persian cats end up with dental issues due to too much crowding in their mouths. They tend to get misaligned teeth due to their shortened snouts, and bacteria have an easier time setting up in these areas. They’re at an increased risk of gum disease, so at-home dental care is even more important.

    Minor Conditions

    • Polycystic kidney disease

    Serious Conditions

    • Brachycephalic syndrome
    • Eye problems
    • Dental problems
    • Skin conditions
    • Hairballs
    • Obesity

    Male vs. Female

    There aren’t any major differences between the males and females besides the obvious reproductive differences. Females can get pregnant, and males cannot. There are many differences surrounding these reproductive differences, though. For instance, females will go into heat and deal with all the hormonal changes that go along with that.

    However, there are no size differences or temperament differences between males and females.

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    3 Little-Known Facts About the Chinchilla Cat

    1. It isn’t a separate cat breed.

    The Chinchilla cat isn’t a separate breed of cat. Instead, it’s just a variant of the Persian cat. Besides their silvery coat, they look and act exactly like other Persians.


    2. Some of them love water!

    Surprisingly, some Persian cats actually like water. They may enjoy splashing in a shallow bath or playing with dripping faucets. Kittens that are introduced to water early often prefer it more than older cats, who are less used to the wetness.


    3. They’re pretty quiet.

    If you don’t want a cat that follows you around the house yelling (we’re looking at you, Siamese), then this breed is often a perfect choice. They do meow, but they tend to do so rather quietly.

    British Shorthair cat chinchillaBritish Shorthair cat chinchilla
    Image Credit: OksanaSusoeva_Shutterstock

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    Final Thoughts

    Chinchilla cats are a specific color variant of the Persian. They tend to be rather laidback and affectionate, preferring to spend time lying around on their owner’s laps. They will be active and playful, especially when younger. However, most tend to prefer sunbathing to most other activities!

    These felines work best in equally laidback homes. Too much hustle and bustle can irritate them and cause anxiety. For this reason, they often don’t do well with small children or yappy dogs. Older children and more peaceful households may find them to be the perfect pet, though.

    Finding this particular coat coloration can be a challenge. You’ll probably have to spend some time on a breeder’s waiting list, especially if you want a particular gender as well. If you want to get a kitten faster, you may have to open your heart up to other coat colors.


    Featured Image Credit: OksanaSusoeva, Shutterstock

    Kristin Hitchcock

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