Chartreux

Perhaps dating all the way back to the 13th century when Crusaders brought them from Syria to France, Chartreux cats were originally monastery cats used to chase away rodents. The name might imply the Grande Chartreuse, the head monastery in the Chartreuse Mountain range. They were first brought to the U.S. in the 1970s.

The ideal owner of a Chartreux cat will interpret any distance as the cat implementing boundaries. They are loyal and devoted but often like to hang back, away from the action in a household. They can be left alone for longer periods of time than other cats, so they work for owners who like to have more of an understanding with a cat than a lovey-dovey relationship, although the cats are affectionate. They prefer predictable and calm households over chaotic ones.

Chasing things and lounging are two “must dos” on a Chartreux cat’s to-do list every day, plus a full-blown nap. They like food dispensing toys as a means to keep their minds busy, too.

Chartreux cats still retain their instincts, so it’s best they are kept fully inside or with access to secure outdoor areas such as a cat run. They enjoy the outdoors, but if left to their own devices, can get up to no good. If kept indoors, jungle gyms, climbing posts, and cat trees would be ideal for them.

Weekly combing—not brushing—will help keep the Chartreux cat in good shape. Most of the time, though, they will take care of grooming themselves. Rarely do they need a bath. They shed more hair twice a year.

Chartreux cats are good at entertaining themselves and generally stay out of the way and out of trouble. They can be clicker-trained, though, and are highly intelligent.

For calm and quieter households, the Chartreux makes a good family cat, especially if there are older children who can respect the cat’s space. They are fine being home all day alone. They can live with cat-friendly dogs.

The cost of a Chartreux from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.