House Cats Central  

Complete Domestic House Cat Encyclopedia

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Chartreux Cat Breed

The Chartreux is a study in contrasts. Often described as a "potato on toothpicks," the Chartreux has a robust body, broad shoulders and a deep chest, all complemented by medium short, finely boned legs. The Chartreux domestic house cat is well muscled, which would enable the cat to meet its obligation as the fine mouser it is reputed to be in French literature. Unlike any other cat, the Chartreux's blue fur is medium in length and woolly, with the proper coat breaking at the neck, chest, and flanks. A dense undercoat gives it resistance and a feeling of sheep's wool. Chartreux quickly become attached to one family and frequently follow their masters from room to room. Known for their dog-like behavior, these domestic house cats can be taught to fetch a ball, and most will respond to their names.

By tradition, all Chartreux kittens born in a given year are named beginning with a specific letter of the alphabet for that particular year. Breeders use only 20 letters, omitting K, Q, W, X, Y and Z. The Chartreux is a quiet breed, chirping rather than meowing at things it finds interesting. The Chartreux is a very intelligent domestic house  cat and is often fascinated by television. The Chartreux cat also enjoys participating in telephone conversations by chewing on the cord. The Chartreux is known for its smile. The rounded head with its softly contoured forehead tapers to a narrowed muzzle. This gives the Chartreux an image of smiling.