I've been worrying about the cat instinct until Obi scared my snowshoe (Soxy.) She's a hunter and neither of my cats is declawed (don't believe in it.) But the girls are only allowed around him when supervised. Otherwise the door to his room is shut. I'm honestly not worried about the flame point (Penelope) as she's too lazy to chase even a string. Penelope and Obi have done this twice more. I'm going to have to get it on video, it's so cute. He sits on the level where they are level and they talk like they're having a conversation.
Yes, some chins will do this ... some cats will ... you are lucky to have one of both at the same time! I have one chin that seems to love to carry on a conversation with me ... very polite ... never interrupts and takes it's turn. Conversations often last a few minutes.
Cats ... I've only had two cats, both were
inside only cats, while having my chins ... neither cat showed intrest in putting a paw even near the chins, but would set and watch them from a distance. One scratch from a claw or tooth of a cat can often set up an infection that can kill a chin. Chins often look like a fun, live play toy to a cat.
Feline distemper (cat pneumonia) is highly contagious and can kill a chin in under 48 hours. A cat does not have to be sick to be a carrier of feline distemper.
When a cat is de-clawed, they will usually only de-claw the front paws ... the rear paws are the ones that cause the most damage in a fight. The front paws slap, nick and tear, the back paws dig and rip with the use of the strong muscles of the hind legs. The front claws are used more in catching small prey, but can be used in a fight to help hold on to it's opponent.
Cats and chinchillas has to be a personal choice, one that is made knowing the possibilities and willing to accept the responsibility, should the worst happen.
Saying that, my two cats were great with my chins, but I doubt I will press my luck a third time.
Jo Ann