Golden Chinchilla Tabby has two or more colors of stripes.
(I) According to the color of the hair tips, the most common is 25, followed by 11, and the least common is 12.
(II) Visually, NY25 is easy to recognize, while NY11 and NY12 are more difficult to distinguish.
NY25 has a deeper fur color, with segmented fur when pulled apart, a broader black color on the back, and an overall darker color on the tail.
NY12 has pure white fur from the chin to the chest, with all four paws having white fur with yellowish “gloves,” white fur on the paw pads, and very little black fur on the tail.
NY11 has vibrant colors when young, with the chin and paws being predominantly light yellow, sometimes with a little white, and about 1/8 of the tail being black.
It’s difficult to distinguish between NY11 and NY12. Although there are differing opinions on NY12, and FIFE does not recognize the NY12 color series, WCF is particularly fond of NY12. Additionally, domestic pet enthusiasts tend to favor lighter colors and often prefer those with more white. Currently, in most cases, the market price for NY12 is slightly higher than that of 11 and 25.
However, in my opinion, judging the value of a Golden Chinchilla solely based on its color is very one-sided. It’s mainly about the overall condition of the cat, such as its head shape, facial features, ear position, eye size, eye color, bite, tail, bone structure, etc. Of course, for the owner, the connection with the cat is the key to judging its value.
(III) How to choose a Golden Chinchilla
For pet enthusiasts who want to raise a Golden Chinchilla, it is essential to purchase from a registered cattery that specializes in breeding one or two breeds of cats, such as the international breed cat association (such as the German WCF). It is best if the cattery is registered with the national industrial and commercial authorities and has a business license. The reasons for this are: first, these catteries’ kittens have a five-generation pedigree certificate, which clearly shows the ancestors’ several generations of cat appearance and origins. Second, reputable catteries breed excellent breeds and have optimized them over many years, ensuring the standard appearance of Golden Chinchillas and avoiding genetic diseases to the greatest extent. Third, reputable catteries scientifically breed litters, do not excessively let mother cats become pregnant, feed meticulously, and maintain a clean environment, which can prevent the purchase of sick or weak kittens. Fourth, kittens undergo scientific socialization training, making them more friendly to their owners and avoiding the purchase of timid or aggressive cats. Under no circumstances should one purchase from a backyard cattery to save money, as this may result in the purchase of mixed-breed cats or sickly cats.
Before purchasing, it’s important to understand the general prices of Golden Chinchillas in China: in recent years, the prices of Golden Chinchillas in China have been inflated. In first-tier cities, a standard Golden Chinchilla from a reputable cattery can cost over 10,000 RMB, and if the quality is very good, it can even reach 20,000-100,000 RMB. In second- and third-tier cities, a standard Golden Chinchilla from a reputable cattery generally costs between 5,000 and 15,000 RMB. This is why Golden Chinchillas are also known as “tycoon gold.”
Regarding choosing a cat, the following signs indicate that the cat is healthy:
1. Clear and bright eyes, with little or no tearing.
2. Clean nostrils, no tearing, sneezing, or runny nose.
3. Clean ears without earwax.
4. Pink mouth and gums, without ulcers or sores.
5. Smooth fur, without bald spots, dryness, dandruff, or any signs of external parasites.
6. The belly is not too thin or protruding.
7. Normal-looking and well-formed feces.
8. Friendly, comfortable, alert, and responsive to your calls.