Cat breed · Natural / Shorthair
Chartreux
A sturdy French breed known for its blue-grey coat, quiet nature and an expression often described as a permanent smile. Chartreux are affectionate but undemanding companions.
Medium12–15 yearsFranceCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Natural / Shorthair
- Origin
- France
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg (7–15 lb)
- Height
- 23–28 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, woolly blue-grey coat
- Temperament
- QuietGentleObservantLoyal
History
Long associated with French monasteries and farms as a mouser; the modern breed was formalised by French breeders in the early twentieth century.
Appearance
A robust, muscular cat with a rounded head, copper-to-gold eyes and a dense water-resistant blue-grey coat.
Exercise and activity
Moderate — daily play sessions keep this solidly built cat from gaining excess weight.
Care and grooming
Weekly brushing is usually enough to manage the dense coat, more during seasonal shedding.
Health considerations
- Patellar luxation
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Obesity
- Dental disease
- Urinary tract disease