Chartreux

Chartreux cats are known for their large bodies, short, thin legs and a facial structure that makes them look like they are smiling. They have a gray or blueish gray fur that is uniquely woolly.¹

Fast Facts

1. Origin: France¹
2. First brought to U.S.: 1970²
3. Coat color: Ash/slate gray/blue gray²
4. Eye color: Copper/gold¹
5. Physical maturity: 2 to 3 years¹
6. Can be trained to fetch and come when called¹
7. Breeders traditionally give kittens names that begin with a certain letter for each year¹

Grooming

Grooming the Chartreux's fur should be done with a comb rather than a brush. Brushes should be avoided because they can pull out the undercoat of the cat leaving patches of guard hairs. Grooming is not necessary unless the cat is shedding.²

History

The Charteux originated in France, documented as early as the 16th century although the origins of the name of the breed is uncertain. It is thought to have originated from the name of a Spanish wool of the 18th century, because of the breeds woolly fur.¹

During World War II the Charteux was in danger of extinction and breeders bred them with Persians and British shorthairs in an attempt to save the breed. When the charteux was imported to the United States in 1970,² they were collected from the French countryside to get the pure bloodline.¹

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