| You may want to consider the Chartreux cat breed if you are looking for a cat breed that is as wonderful as good French wine. According to legend Chartreux cats were named for the liquor made so famous by the Carthusian monks. Although mentioned in the Carthusian records as early as the 1500s, the Chartreux cats were probably named after the Chartreux sheep whose wool is similar to the coat of this certain breed of cat.
Wooly Coat
The Chartreux cat breed has a thick, wooly coat in a rich gray blue color. This breed is neither a true longhair nor a shorthair, since the outer coat is longer than that of a shorthair, but not as long as that of most longhairs.
Characteristics
A Chartreux cat has a body that is solid and muscular, while its legs are on the short side and slender. Some breeders say this breed looks like a potato with toothpick legs. However, despite its build, the Chartreux moves quickly and gracefully and has a reputation for being an excellent mouser. One of the most eye catching characteristics of this breed is the way his mouth curves in a perpetual, sweet smile. These cats weigh in at anywhere from seven to seventeen pounds, with cats at the heavier end of this weight range being the ideal.
Hanging Out With Family
If you enjoy interacting with your pets and teaching them tricks, then this breed is an ideal choice for you. The Chartreux is a breed that loves to hang out with family members and thrives on attention. In addition, these intelligent cats have a reputation for being quick learners. Most of them learn to come when they are called and will fetch toys.
Stay-at-home Parents
The dog-like Chartreux cat loves people and since he is really unhappy spending a lot of time alone, people who spend a great deal of time away from home should consider another breed. Chartreux cats don’t really seek out other cats for company, so acquiring another kitten to keep him company is not a particularly good idea.
Quiet Kitty
This breed is on the quiet side. When the Chartreux does talk, it has a high pitched meow. It will also occasionally give a soft chirp instead.
The Name Game
Before you name your Chartreux kitten, you may want to talk to your breeder. This cat breed has an interesting naming tradition. All kittens born in a certain year are given names that start with the same letter. Names that start with the letters K, Q, W, X, Y, and Z are never used.
Good Grooming
This breed's wool like coat does need frequent grooming to avoid matting. You should be prepared to comb your cat's hair at least once a week to keep him looking beautiful, and you may actually need to groom him more often.
Ideal Breed
The Chartreux cat may be the ideal breed for you, especially if you want an intelligent, quiet and sweet-natured pet. |