Purple chinchillas are one of the rarest and most sought after exotic pets. If you’ve been wondering what makes these adorable rodents purple, and whether they make good pets, you’ve come to the right place.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Purple chinchillas get their unique color from a genetic mutation that causes them to produce more melanin than normal chinchillas. They have the same general care needs as regular chinchillas but their rarity means they are harder to acquire and more expensive.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about purple chinchillas, including their origin, unique traits, proper care and feeding, common health issues, where to buy them, and more.
The Origin and Genetics Behind Purple Chinchillas
How the Purple Mutation Arose
The first documented purple chinchilla was born in 1995 at a chinchilla ranch in California. This unusual lavender color was the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation in one individual chinchilla. Since this initial discovery, breeders have been selectively breeding purple chinchillas to stabilize and enhance the color mutation.
It is now an established fur color within the chinchilla fancy.
The genetic basis of the purple coloration arose from a recessive allele that inhibits the production of yellow pigment. With a lack of yellow pigment, the fur takes on a diluted grayish-purple tone. This mutation likely occurred by chance during the DNA replication process.
Radiation exposure or chemical mutagens may also induce novel mutations and new fur colors. Overall, the origins of the purple chinchilla trace back to a serendipitous genetic accident in one breeder’s stock.
Genetic Basis for Purple Fur
The purple fur color in chinchillas is caused by a recessive allele of a gene that codes for tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in pigment production. The wild-type dominant allele (T+) allows for normal tyrosinase activity and yellow pigment production.
The mutant recessive allele (t) results in minimal tyrosinase activity, causing a deficit in yellow pigment. This produces the dilute, desaturated purple color.
For a chinchilla to exhibit purple fur, it must inherit two copies of the mutant tyrosinase allele (t/t genotype). Chinchillas that inherit one normal allele and one mutant allele (T/t genotype) will have normal grey fur but can pass the mutation on to offspring.
Understanding the genetics allows breeders to predict fur colors based on parental crosses.
Other Color Mutations
In addition to purple, other color mutations have emerged in chinchilla breeds over the years. Some other recessive fur colors include ebony, beige, violet, and white. Ebony chinchillas have fur that appears almost black. The beige mutation dilutes black pigment to produce tan fur.
Violet chinchillas have a very light lavender color from an altered blue pigment gene. The white color results from a lack of pigment production altogether.
Like purple chinchillas, all these fur colors originated from spontaneous genetic mutations. Breeders then propagated these unique traits through selective breeding programs. Thanks to the wonders of genetics, chinchillas now come in a rainbow of naturally occurring fur shades!
Traits and Appearance of Purple Chinchillas
Purple Fur
The most distinguishing feature of purple chinchillas is their stunning violet fur. Their fur ranges in color from a pale lilac to a deep royal purple. The fur is extremely soft and dense, with up to 60 hairs emerging from each follicle. This density helps keep purple chinchillas warm and dry.
The coloration comes from a rare genetic mutation that causes the chinchilla’s fur to lack certain color pigments, resulting in the beautiful purple hue. Breeders selectively mate chinchillas exhibiting purple fur to produce more offspring with this unique trait.
Facial Features
Purple chinchillas have adorable facial features. Their eyes are large and dark in color. Their ears are broad and rounded. The whiskers are long and stiff. The nose is blunt. Perhaps the most endearing facial feature is their big, buck teeth that are constantly growing.
These front teeth give them a buck-toothed grin. Overall, the facial features give purple chinchillas a sweet, inquisitive look.
Body Type and Size
Purple chinchillas have a stocky, rounded body type. Adults reach 8-15 inches long with a tail of 3-6 inches. Their compact, robust build helps them leap across rocks and climb in their native mountainous habitat. Weight ranges from 24-45 ounces. Females tend to be a bit larger than males.
The body is covered in the signature lavender fur, with a white belly. The fur is so dense that it makes them look much larger than their actual petite body size. Purple chinchillas have short limbs, large hind feet for jumping, and sharp claws for gripping rocky ledges.
Their muscular hind legs give them incredible leaping ability.
Caring for a Purple Chinchilla
Housing Requirements
Purple chinchillas need lots of space to hop around and play. The minimum cage size should be at least 6 feet long by 3 feet wide by 4 feet tall. Bigger is always better when it comes to chinchilla cages! The best cages have multiple levels with ramps so they can climb up and down.
Chinchillas love to jump, so provide platforms, ledges and toys for climbing on. Wire cages with a solid bottom work well, and be sure to use a fine mesh that won’t catch their toes or feet. Avoid aquariums or tanks which don’t allow for proper ventilation.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
Purple chinchillas prefer a climate-controlled environment between 60-70°F. Temperatures above 80°F can cause heat stroke. Low humidity around 30-50% is ideal. Be sure to place their cage away from direct sunlight, drafts and heating/cooling vents.
Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor the temperature and humidity. Provide a cooling stone or ceramic tiles if it gets too warm. Chinchillas shouldn’t get wet so keep their cage in a dry place.
Exercise Needs
These active critters require lots of exercise! A minimum of 30 minutes of supervised playtime per day is recommended, but the more the better. Chinchillas love to roam and pop around so let them explore a chin-proofed room or play area. Provide plenty of toys and tunnels to run through.
Wheels over 12 inches in diameter are great for burning off energy. Supervise playtime to prevent chewing on cords or furniture. Rotate toys to keep them mentally stimulated.
Dietary Needs
Chinchillas have sensitive digestive systems, so premium chinchilla pellets should make up the bulk of their diet. Timothy hay should be available at all times. Avoid overly sugary treats as this can cause dental issues.
Fruits and veggies to offer in moderation include kale, carrots, apples, raisins, bananas, blueberries and rose hips. Provide a salt lick for essential minerals. Fresh filtered water should be available in a bottle or heavy bowl.
Grooming
That luscious purple fur requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and keep it clean. A soft bristle brush should be used at least twice per week. Fur slip rings allow them to shed loose hair. Monthly dust baths with chinchilla dust or fine sand keep their coat fresh and reduce oil.
Check ears for wax buildup and trim nails as needed every few months. Teeth may need occasional trimming by a vet.
Health Concerns
Chinchillas are relatively healthy pets with proper care, but they are prone to certain conditions. Overgrown teeth, gastrointestinal stasis and heat stroke are common issues. Signs of illness include lethargy, appetite loss and diarrhea. Excessive fur chewing can indicate stress or boredom.
Like many rodents, they can develop respiratory infections. Establish a relationship with an exotic vet for checkups and treatment if any concerns arise.
Buying a Purple Chinchilla
Cost and Availability
Purple chinchillas are considered rare and exotic pets, so expect to pay a premium price for one. On average, purple chinchillas cost between $400-$600 each. They are not as readily available as the more common grey or beige chinchillas.
There are only a handful of breeders currently working with the purple mutation. So you may have to get on a waiting list to get one. Don’t be surprised if you have to wait 6 months or longer.
Be prepared to travel outside your local area to visit a reputable purple chinchilla breeder. Since they are so rare, you may not find any available close to home. Road trips across a few states are common when buying an uncommon color mutation like purple.
Breeders to Look For
When researching purple chinchilla breeders, look for those who:
- Have a strong reputation in the chinchilla community for ethical, responsible breeding practices
- Produce healthy, robust chinchillas generation after generation
- Specialize in rare color mutations like violet, charcoal, and purple
- Are willing to answer all your questions and provide health/genetic background info
Some of the top purple chinchilla breeders in North America include ChinchillaVille in California, Avalon Chinchillas in Virginia, and Chinchilla Town in Texas.
Questions to Ask Breeders
Here are some recommended questions to ask purple chinchilla breeders before making a purchase:
- How long have you been breeding purple chinchillas?
- What color mutations are the parents? Can I see photos of them?
- Do you health test for genetic diseases? If so, what diseases?
- What is the personality of this chinchilla like?
- What is your pairing/breeding philosophy?
- What do you feed your chinchillas? Do you offer nutritional supplements?
- Do you socialize the chinchillas as kits? If so, how?
- Do you provide a health/temperament guarantee? What are the terms?
A reputable breeder will gladly answer these questions and be able to provide documentation on the chinchilla’s background. Personality and temperament should factor into your buying decision as much as color!
Are Purple Chinchillas the Right Pet for You?
Pros of Owning a Purple Chinchilla
Purple chinchillas make wonderful pets for many owners. Here are some of the biggest pros of bringing one of these exotic creatures into your home:
- Intelligent and curious – Purple chinchillas are highly intelligent animals that love to explore and interact with their environment. Their inquisitive nature makes them very entertaining to watch.
- Soft fur – The velvety soft, dense fur of purple chinchillas is truly exceptional. Petting these animals is an amazing tactile experience.
- Minimal odor – Compared to other rodents, chinchillas have very little odor. This makes them ideal for people who want an indoor pet.
- Clean habitat – Since chinchillas naturally have very little smell, their cages only need to be cleaned about once a week on average.
- Long lifespan – With proper care, purple chinchillas can live up to 15-20 years. You’ll enjoy their companionship for a long time.
- Bond with owners – Chinchillas can form close bonds with their human caretakers. They’ll eagerly greet you and love to interact.
Potential Cons to Consider
However, there are also some potential downsides to purple chinchilla ownership that need to be considered:
- Delicate health – Compared to other pets, chinchillas are more prone to health issues like malocclusion, intestinal problems, and ringworm. You’ll need an exotic vet.
- Specialized diet – The dietary needs of chinchillas are very specific. They require specialized chinchilla pellets, hay, and other food.
- Temperature sensitive – Purple chinchillas require a fairly cool environment between 60-75°F. Overheating can be fatal.
- Need for space – These active animals require a large, multi-level cage and daily play time outside of it. Lack of space causes stress.
- Not cuddly – While chinchillas bond closely with owners, they generally don’t enjoy cuddling or being held often.
- High startup costs – Between specialized housing, diet, and exotic vet bills, purple chinchillas have high care costs.
Conclusion
Purple chinchillas are undoubtedly one of the most unique and beautiful exotic pets you can own. Their stunning violet fur and lively, energetic personalities make them appealing to experienced chinchilla owners looking to add something special to their family.
While caring for them takes time, proper research, and an investment, purple chinchillas can make for wonderfully rewarding companions. We hope this guide gave you all the details you need to decide if one of these exotic pets is right for you!
