The Chinchilla is a colour variety of the Persian, not a separate breed in most registries. The name describes the coat: a white or pale undercoat with the tips of each hair shaded in black or silver, which gives the coat a sparkling appearance in movement.

They typically have green or blue green eyes outlined in dark pigment, and brick red noses similarly outlined.

The coat needs daily attention

This is not optional. A Persian coat is long and dense with a thick undercoat, and it mats within days if it is not brushed.

Mats are not a cosmetic problem. They pull on the skin, trap moisture, and the skin underneath becomes inflamed and infected. Severe matting has to be clipped off under sedation.

Brush every day, right down to the skin rather than just over the surface
Pay particular attention to the armpits, behind the ears, the belly and the trousers
Bathe periodically and dry thoroughly
Keep the fur around the anus trimmed short

An adult cat that has never been brushed will not accept it easily, so start in kittenhood.

The flat face

Persians are brachycephalic, meaning the facial bones are shortened. This has consequences worth understanding before taking one on.

Tear overflow. The tear ducts are distorted, so tears run down the face instead of draining. This leaves brown staining and, if the skin stays wet, inflammation. Wipe the folds under the eyes daily with cotton wool and warm water, and dry them.

Breathing. Shortened nasal passages make breathing less efficient. Snoring and noisy breathing are common. Heat and exercise are tolerated less well, and these cats should never be left anywhere warm.

Teeth. A shortened jaw crowds the teeth, which increases tartar and gum disease. Dental care matters more in this breed than in most.

Eyes. Prominent eyes are more exposed to injury and to ulceration.

Kidney disease

Polycystic kidney disease is inherited in Persians and related varieties. Cysts form in the kidneys and enlarge over years, eventually causing kidney failure.

A genetic test exists, and responsible breeders test their cats. If you are buying a kitten, ask about the parents’ status. If you already have one, kidney values are worth checking as part of routine health screening rather than waiting for signs.

Temperament

Calm, quiet and undemanding compared with most breeds. They are not great climbers or athletes, and they suit a quiet household. They are affectionate but on their own terms.

Routine care

Daily grooming, daily eye cleaning, annual health checks and twice yearly over the age of ten, current vaccination and parasite control, dental attention, and kidney screening in an older cat.

Come in promptly for any eye that is held shut, cloudy or discharging, and for any change in breathing.