Chartreux
Cat Facts

The Chartreux is one of three blue cat breeds. The three breeds originate from different parts of the world and are not the same cat breed.

The Korat Cat Breed and the Russian Blue are the two other natural breeds of blue cats. The British blue is not a separate breed, but rather a color variant of the British Shorthair.

These domestic cat breeds are strong-boned, with solid muscles. The body is medium-long, with a robust physique, deep chest and broad shoulders. Their legs are short, sturdy, but fine-boned and straight. They are fondly described as 'potatoes on toothpicks'. Their tails are medium length and heavy at the base and taper to an oval tip.

Their heads should be rounded and broad but not spherical. They have full cheeks, powerful jaws and mature males may sport jowls. The forehead is high and contoured and their muzzles small and narrow. Their necks are short and heavy-set. Their face has a sweet smiling expression. They have large, round expressive eyes and the eye-color ranges from gold to copper, but a brilliant orange is preferred. The ears are erect, set high on their heads.

The coat comes in 1 color only - Any shade of unblemished blue-gray, from a slate blue to an ash blue. The tips of the hairs may be slightly brushed with silver. The Chartreux cat's coat has a wooly texture and is medium short. The coat has a resilient undercoat and a longer protective top coat. The woolliness and density of the coat depends on the climate, the sex of the cat and also the age of the cat.

It's important to note that the American and European breed standards differ for this cat. Check all breeds of cat breed standards in your country.

Personality and Temperament

It is an independent, sweet and easy-going companion cat. It has a strong personality and enjoys solitude and tranquility. A quiet cat that has a high-chirping voice, but it does not use it in excess.

They are affectionate, devoted to their owners and wonderful companions to single and older people. Some owners describe them as lazy cats that prefer to observe rather than participate, but these excellent mousers need only see a mouse to spring into action.

This is a robust, hardy cat that is suited to cold climates. They enjoy the outdoors, but too much sun results in brown highlight on their coat. Whilst the Chartreux is a skilled hunter, access to the outdoors should be reserved for cooler days.

Chartreux Cat Information

Would they suit a home with Children?

They would suit a family with older children. Whilst they are affectionate and sometimes playful, they prefer a quiet environment, need their space and prefer to observe rather than get involved in rough play.

Are they Pet Friendly?

This is a dominant cat which means they would prefer the company of cat-friendly dogs to other cats.

Do they prefer Indoor or Outdoor living?

The Chartreux needs space - a safe, enclosed, escape-proof garden would suit them best.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

Brushing this domestic cat's double coat is NOT recommended. Simply use a grooming glove or run your fingers through their coat. This is a low maintenance cat breed.

Cat Diseases and Health Problems associated with this cat breed

Whilst they are a robust and healthy breed, some lines may suffer from:

• Patellar luxation (slipping knee caps)

Always consider cat insurance for your cat.

Cat Nutrition and Dietary Requirements

The Chartreux may be sensitive to certain cat foods especially rich foods. Older cats do have a tendency to become overweight which will require a low-calorie diet. Their diet needs to be nutritionally balanced. You have a choice between dry, semi-moist, raw or canned cat food which you can read more about under the cat food chapter. Provide your cat with fresh water daily.

Average Weight of Chartreux Cats

Male cat average weight: 5.0 - 6.8 kg (11 - 15 lbs) ; Female cat average weight 2.7 - 4.5 kg (6 - 10 lbs)

Life Expectancy of this blue cat

These cats have and average life span of 13 - 16 years. Age is dependent of a number of factors. If your cat receives their annual vaccinations, a well balanced diet, regular exercise and lives indoors, it could live longer than the average age given here. Take a look at 'How long do cats live?' for more great info regarding life expectancy.

Related Cat Pages:

Chartreux Cat Breeders - international cat breeder directory