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Chartreux
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Physical Characteristics
- Robust body, broad shoulders and a deep chest
- Medium short, finely boned legs
- Blue fur, medium in length and woolly
- Dense undercoat that gives it resistance and a feeling of sheep's wool
- The eyes are rounded with upward curving outer corners
- Eye color ranges from gold to copper
- Ears are medium in height and width, set high and erect on the head
Temperament
- Smart, precocious, quiet
Medical Conditions
- Boosters needed by 12 weeks old
- Annual vet visit for checkups is important
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Does best indoors
- Needs sufficient scratching device
- Declawing is not recommended
- Kittens are available after 12-16 weeks
Grooming
- Instead of brushing the double coat, run your fingers through the fur on a daily basis
- Trim nails regularly
Other Facts
- Often described as a 'potato on toothpicks'
- Reputed as a fine mouser in French literature
- Known for its smile and dog-like behavior, these cats can be taught to fetch a ball, and most will respond to their names
- Today, many American-bred Chartreux are being returned to French breeders, thus reducing even further their availability in the United States
Breed History
- As legend goes, the Chartreux lived with and were named for the Carthusian monks of France
- Research states that they were given their name due to the woolly character of their fur, which was the same as the Spanish wool of the 18th century
- Noted in documents as early as the 16th century
- By tradition, all kittens born in a given year are named beginning with a specific letter of the alphabet for that particular year
- During World War II, some French breeders tried to save the breed from extinction by breeding with Persians and British Shorthairs
- Brought to the United States by John and Helen Gamon, who were committed to finding and acquiring the beautiful cats
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Harrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit HCA Rescue
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