Chausie Cat Breed
Cat Facts

The Chausie cat breed is a hybrid cat created in the late 60's when cat breeders crossed the wild Jungle cat and a domestic cat, specifically the Abyssinian cat, during a selective breeding program. The breeding program had a hiatus of about 20 years before been resurrected in the 1990's.

The Chausie cat has an athletic build and is characterized by firm, strong muscles. This domestic cat is built for leaping and running and as such they have medium long, lithe legs that are well muscled. The hind legs are moderately longer than the forelegs. The paws are rounded and considered small for the size of the cat. Their tail is of medium thickness with 2 lengths being accepted - a three quarter length (preferred) and a full length tail.

The head is described as a modified wedge (i.e. triangular in shape). Their cheek bones are high and angular with a strong, full muzzle and chin. The eyes are medium sized, oval-shaped and the eye color can range from light green to hazel, but yellow or gold eyes are preferred. This kitty has large ears set close together and high on its head.

The coat length is medium short, but the length should be sufficient to allow for two bands of ticking. The undercoat is soft and dense whilst the texture of the top coat is coarser. The Chausie cat comes in 3 recognized colors:

Brown Ticked Tabby: The base coat is reddish-gold to sandy-gray, whilst the coat next to the skin is mouse gray. Following the mouse color are three bands of dark ticking. The upper and inner front legs are characterized by bold barring, whilst the back legs have slight or no barring. Tabby markings are seen on the tail, legs and face. The eyes and muzzle should be outlined by an off-white to white color. A necklace may or may not be present on the neck. The Chausie's belly is lighter with some spotting or speckling.

Black Grizzled Ticked Tabby: Characterized by the shaft of the hair having alternating light and dark bands of ticking. The hair shaft starts with a light band next to the skin and ends in a dark tip.

Solid Black

Personality and Temperament

A cat's character is partly dictated by breeding - good breeding will ensure that your cat has a balanced temperament. So be selective!

The Chausie is described as an extremely active and playful cat. They love to run, jump and leap into the air. This agility and speed is inherited from their wild ancestors who require these skills for hunting birds. It's a good thing that these cats can be leash trained which means that a daily brisk walk will help expend some of this energy.

The Chausie is a curious, alert and intelligent cat. They are quick learners and their owners claim they can open doors and cupboards and get up to a fair amount of mischief. They are fearless but certainly not aggressive cats. In fact, the breeders and owners we chatted to describe them as affectionate and sweet-natured cats.

They are dog-like in many respects - very loyal and tend to form a very close bond with one specific member of the household. They generally do not tolerate solitude and are probably better suited to a family of very energetic people. They need lots of attention, stimulation and cat toys, so be sure to create an adventure zone for your new companion.

It should be noted that a first generation (F1) cat, that is 50 % wild and 50 % domestic cat, will display more 'wild' attributes than an F4 cat that is 4 generations removed from its wild Jungle cat ancestor.

Chausie Cat Breed Information

Would they suit a home with Children?

Yes, but children should always be taught how to handle a cat or kitten. Younger children should be supervised when playing with their cat.

Are they Pet Friendly?

Yes, but new pet should always be introduced gradually and under supervision of the owner. Respect the rights of existing cats or dogs.

Do they prefer Indoor or Outdoor living?

The Chausie cat breed is best suited to outdoor living, but 'outdoors' as described below. They can adapt to indoor living, but it's important to provide a suitable cat friendly environment for them.

Many breeders have contracts that stipulate that the cat must be kept indoors only.

An enclosed garden means one that is covered on all 4 sides, including the roof. If your cat has direct access from your home to a large enclosure of this type it would be possible to allow safe access to the 'outdoors'. Frequent walks are essential to burn off all their energy.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

A weekly brush is recommended to keep the coat in tip-top condition.

Visit our guide to complete cat care and cat grooming.

Cat Diseases and Health Problems associated with this cat breed

A healthy robust cat breed with few if any health concerns. Do consider cat insurance for your cat.

Cat Nutrition and Dietary Requirements

The Chausie cat breed should be fed a well-balanced diet and preferably a diet that is gluten-free. You need to choose the best cat food you can afford. You may even want to explore a raw cat food diet. Visit our information on cat food for indepth information. Fresh water daily is essential.

Note: It has been reported that some Chausie cats have difficulty digesting commercial cat food due to their intolerance to gluten. Speak to a Chausie breeder about the best diet for your cat.

How much does the Chausie Cat Breed Weigh?

It is a fairly large cat with an average weight of between 6.0 -11.5 kg (13.2 - 25.4 lbs)

The Life Span of your Hybrid cat

The average life expectancy of the Chausie cat breed is 14 years. Diet, exercise, cat health care and exposure to the elements will all dictate the life span of your cat.

Related Cat Pages:

Chausie Cat - the history of the breed

Chausie Cat Breeders - international cat breeder directory

Chausie Cat Breed Photos Courtesy of:

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© Mariko Florez of www.asiaexoticcat.com F4 Golden Ruddy Chausie, female, Sophie  Owner: Asia Exotics Bred by: Asia Exotics

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© Helmi Flick of www.helmiflick.com Owner: Sheryl Koontz of www.marechalcattery.com

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© Bobbie Tullo of www.tasurt-chausie.com

F1 Black Grizzled, female Chauzie. Name: Wildkatz Ajaad Beeshmaji of Tasurt and her "call name" is Monkey.  Bred by: Sandra Cassalia ; Owned by: Bobbie Tullo