Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Shorthaired Group.

Weight:

Males weigh approximately 9 kg while females weigh 3.5-6 kg.

Height:

Males grow to a large size while females grow to a medium size.

Color(s):

Chartreux come in a range of bluish-grey shades.

Coat:

Chartreux have unique coats — their fur is wooly and slightly longer than that of shorthaired cats. They have dense, water resistant double coats.

Overview

Character:

Chartreux are highly intelligent and observant animals. They’re also playful and loving, and make very affectionate companions.

Country of Origin:

France.

History:

This breed has a long history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. According to legend, Chartreux cats were bred by monks at the Monastery of La Grande Chartreuse in France. However, in the 1970s, the Prior of the the monastery denied any involvement of the monks in the development of this breed. Also, it has been suggested that this breed actually got its name from pile de Chartreux, a type of eighteenth century Spanish wool (because of their wooly coats). Whatever the true history is, this breed has been around since at least the 1500s.

Name:

Possibly named for the Monastery of La Grande Chartreuse or for pile de Chartreux, a type of eighteenth century Spanish wool.

Temperament:

Chartreux are typically very quiet and non-aggressive cats. They have a calm temperament and get along well with children and other pets. Often these cats will bond with one family member in particular, but they are still affectionate with other family members as well.

Care

Training:

These intelligent cats can often be trained to fetch and to come when called.

Activity:

Chartreux are playful cats, both as kittens and as adults.

Ownership:

Quiet and intelligent, Chartreux are excellent, playful companions. These cats take two or three years to reach adulthood and are typically healthy animals. Chartreux are good with children and handle traveling quite well. Rather than meowing, these cats will sometimes make a chirping sound.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

List of cat breeds