The Chartreux is one of the oldest and most cherished of French breeds. They are the result of natural breed in France and are popular for their distinctive smile. They are known for their dog-like behavior. They enjoy fetching toys and will often follow you throughout the house.
Overall, if you are thinking about bringing a Chartreux cat into the house, this article should help you make your own decision.
Chartreux Cats are new to the United States
Their History
Their Origin
Chartreux cats hail all the way from France even though legends abound on the true origin of the breed. Stories have it that Chartreux cats were bred by Carthusian monks in France to protect their stored grains from vermin because they were great rat hunters. The grains were used to create the monks’ popular liquor. Some stories mention that the Chartreux cats were the former mountain cats of Syria and were brought to French monasteries by crusaders.
As with their true origin, how the Chartreux got its name is also of question. There are two theories as to how these cats got their name. One theory is that they were named after Carthusian monks who actively bred them. Another theory is that they were named after a Spanish type of wool called 'Pile de Chartreux' because of their wool-like coat.
What are they like?
- The Chartreux is a muscular cat with short legs. Males weigh between 10 and 14 pounds while females weigh 6 to 9 pounds.
- It has a rounded head with contoured forehead that tapers near the mouth, giving the cat its distinctive smile.
- Its rounded eyes come in shades of gold and copper with orange being the most preferred by breeders.
- It has medium-sized erect ears, giving the cat an alert appearance.
- The nose is straight and medium in length.
- It has a blue-gray double coat that makes its fur almost waterproof.
Chartreux cats are friendly
Chartreux cats are affectionate and empathetic. They get attached to their owners very quickly. The more you are kind to them, the more they will be loyal and attached to you.
Chartreux cats are known to be playful, adaptable and easy to travel with. They are good family pets. They like the company of children and dogs and are generally quiet in nature.
Chartreux cats are intelligent
The Chartreux is known to be a very intelligent cat. Chartreux cats do work buttons, alarm clocks and get latches open and have extremely fast reflexes
Chartreux cats are healthy
Chartreux cats are among the healthiest breeds of cats. They suffer few vulnerabilities to kidney and urinary tract diseases and have a tendency toward obesity. Notable conditions include:
- Patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap)
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Urinary stones
Chartreux cats need grooming
Chartreux cats have a soft, woolly coat with medium length hair. They need to be combed to remove knots and dead hair. Ideally, they should be combed everyday during shedding seasons (twice a year). Some of them might develop gingivitis if their teeth are not properly taken care of, therefore it’s a good idea to brush your Chartreux’s teeth every few weeks. Nails need to be trimmed every few weeks as well.
