This elegant cat hails from America and the UK, and is more of an extrovert than most of the other Persian cats.

One of the most famous Chinchilla cats was known as “Silver Lambkin”, who is believed to be the originator of the breed’s distinctive silvery colouring. He went on to win many of the major awards at the Crystal Palace Show in London in 1888.

This warm and friendly cat is a large-sized animal with a square body sporting quite a round and flat face with small ears. It has luminous green eyes outlined in the same colour as its coat, tipping that is mainly white, with black tipping that gives it a sparkling appearance. They have melodious voices and are quick to adjust to any new environment in which they might be placed. They have a “laid-back” temperament, but are also quite the extrovert and relish being the centre of attention.

The Chinchilla’s stunning silvery coat needs a good brushing each day to help keep it looking in top condition.

The Chinchilla will usually live up to 13 years of age, but with the proper care and nutrition can live up to 15 years of age.

This is a cat of medium height with the female usually weighing up to 4kg and the male weighing up to 8kg.

Being a playful cat and one that is full of life, it gets along well with other pets, but if kept in the company of its own kind it will be truly happy.

Ideal owners are those who can offer this cat plenty of company and attention – for this they will be rewarded with a very loving and smart cat that will be only too happy to please.

If you have decided the Chinchilla is the cat for you, and you understand it needs to be brushed each day, contact one of the breeders or the breed associations listed below: