Violet

Violet in chinchillas refers to a lavender-grey color variety of Chinchilla lanigera, commonly associated with the recessive Sullivan violet mutation in domestic lines. The coat has a cool violet or lilac cast, often with a white belly and a softer tone than standard grey. Shades may be called light, medium, dark, or silver violet-grey. Because the gene is recessive, a chinchilla can carry violet without looking violet, and visible kits normally require the mutation from both parents.

Violet lines are attractive but can lose size or coat quality if selected narrowly for color. Many breeders use outcrossing to strong standard-grey animals, then track carriers before breeding back to violet. As pets, violets need the same management as other chinchillas: dry dust baths, a diet centered on grass hay and pellets, secure climbing space, and protection from overheating. Color should not be the only reason to choose one; sound teeth, dense fur, and steady handling behavior matter more over the animal's long lifespan.

Colors: Dark Violet-Grey, Light Violet-Grey, Medium Violet-Grey, Silver Violet-Grey