Although the exact origins of the Chartreux cat is not clear, legend has it that the breed descended from felines owned by French monks from the Carthusian Order during the Middle Ages, perhaps around 1300s. Widely described as a “potato on toothpicks”, the Chartreux cat is generally distinguished for its dense, water-repellent, blue-grey coat that’s silver-colored at the tips. This large, muscular breed has short, fairly thin limbs, and big round paws. Chartreux cats are often characterized as rather primitive in form – neither classic nor cobby. Because of the breed’s color and robust build, it’s frequently mistaken with the British Blue Shorthair cat. With a more careful observation, however, you will notice that the Chartreux cat is more slender, lighter, and more refined as compared to the Brit.
Temperament
Agile and full of beans, this born-hunter mouser was once used largely in getting rid of mice. Known for its good temperament, friendliness and loyalty, the Chartreux cat is believed to possess the qualities that make a good household companion. They are gentle, affectionate and excellent with children and other animals. In addition, Chartreux cats are very quiet felines that hardly ever annoy its owners with constant crying and meowing. The breed is also intelligent and self-assured, but not pushily so. Quite observant, fun-loving and playful, this amusing cat knows how to entertain its human family with its antics. Because of the breed’s even disposition, they also usually make perfect traveling partners.
Grooming
To keep the Chartreux cat’s woolly blue coat stay beautiful, it has to be combed and brushed on a regular basis. Because this breed tends to shed its undercoat heavily a couple of times a year, you might want to comb him every day during that period to keep those unsightly and allergy-triggering fur at bay. The rest is just basic grooming: nail trimming, ear-cleaning and dental care.
Health Concerns
Despite the fact that the Chartreux cat is recognized for its exceptional health and hardiness, the breed may still be prone to a few health issues like polycystic kidney disease, urinary tract struvite stones, and even to a recessive gene for a medical condition called medial patellar luxation.
Best Environment
Like any other cat, the Chartreux breed is generally well-suited to any living situation with owners who will love him fully and provide his striking blue coat a weekly combing. Just keep him indoors all the time so you can keep him from the dangers found outdoors like car accidents, serious communicable cat diseases as well as to the harmful attacks from other animals.
