Expert: Marcia Owen - 3/16/2008

Question
I have a 8 month old silver chinchilla... She's a really quiet and well behaved cat... Very friendly and affectionate too when she's in the mood that is... I'm a first time cat owner... When is the time for breeding? And what all factors should i consider?

Answer
Hi Suhail

You sound very happy with your Chinchilla.

What is the time for breeding?  That will depend on your girl.  Each cat reaches maturity at different times, even litter mates will differ.  An average time for a first call is about the age of 1 year and you should allow her to have that first call without mating her.  You can mate from the 2nd mating.  She will let you know when she is in season by doing a lot of rolling, crying and putting her bottom in the air.

Considerations when breeding - the best cat you can find that a) doesn't have too many common ancestors in his pedigree and your girl's and b) that any weaknesses she has, i.e. eye colour, head type etc. is complemented and corrected by the boy.  Do start to look at studs now so that you don't get caught out when she starts calling.  Go and visit the boys to make sure they are to your liking and that they are looked after to your liking, as your girl will be living in those conditions for a few days when she is in season.  Find a stud owner that you feel you can work with and who will mentor you too when you are uncertain about something.

Regards

Marcia.