Chartreux

The Chartreux has experienced tough times. They were first mentioned in the early 1700’s when these stocky little cats were kept as ratters but they were also killed for their meat and pelts during the various famines, economic crisis and wars France experienced. Surviving Chartreux had to be quick-witted and hardy, and that nature remains in the modern Chartreux to some extent!

In the early 20th Century, cat breeders realised very few wild colonies of Chartreux remained, and some became interested in preserving the breed for posterity. The breed description was put together based on 18th century descriptions and they have changed little since, which is very rare within the cat world!

The Chartreux remains playful well into maturity, and are very much creatures of habit, preferring a predictable, stable household routine. They are intelligent and can be taught via clicker training but are not in need of excessive amounts of entertainment.

A little light ‘chase the thing on a string’ and some lap-time will do the Chartreux nicely – followed by a good nap after lunch. As with most cats, they would benefit from the use of food dispensing toys that recreate some elements of hunting and catching prey. Good mental stimulation, especially if kept as indoor cats, is important for the happiness and wellbeing of your Chartreux.

The Chartreux is a fully capable hunter and responsible owners must keep them secured in their own gardens. They can have free access to a secure garden or cat-run as they are unlikely to get into trouble, and are smart enough to bring themselves in via a cat-flap should the weather turn nasty.

It is advised to keep the Chartreux as indoor cats, however they do like the chance to go outdoors. If kept as an indoor cat, to fill the need for the outdoors, the Chartreux would need access to significant cat-trees and jungle gym type equipment.

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat.

The Chartreux tend to be sensitive to rich food or too many changes in diet, so it is recommended to take advice from your veterinarian on selecting the right quality food. Bare in mind, that as they age adult Chartreux cats are not as active and can suffer from cat obesity if overfed.

Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

A weekly comb through, do not brush this woolly coat, to remove dead coat and check for scratches or scrapes will suffice. The Chartreux should take care of their own grooming the rest of the time. Bathing this breed is rarely a necessity, however, if they do require a bath, remember that it can take time to get their water-repellent coat wet enough to reap the benefits of a good clean.

The Chartreux are known to shed more in the spring and require more brushing during that time to help rid them of loose hairs.

Remember that a greasy coat can be evidence that your cat is no longer attempting to groom themselves, which can be indicative of poor or failing health or excessive weight. As with all cats, Chartreux benefit from regular vaccination, parasite control and an annual veterinary health check.

The Chartreux makes an excellent family cat for the steady, quiet family with older children who know how to respect a cat’s space and need for uninterrupted naps. They are good travellers and may suit those who holiday at second homes or pet friendly cottages, which many cats would not tolerate. They are also fine with being left home alone whilst owners work each day.

The Chartreux is also suitable to live with cat-friendly dogs, due to their amiable disposition. Introduce pets slowly and in controlled circumstances to ensure positive interactions.

Finding a Chartreux cat to call you own may be a tricky task, due to the uniqueness of the breed. Since these cats are such a treasure, it is rare to find them in a shelter or specific breed rescues. However, it does sometimes happen, owners give up their beloved pets, for many reasons. Please consult the adoption organisation, if you are adopting, for details on a specific cat’s character.