Chartreux

The Chartreux cat, popularly known as the Maltese, is originally from France. It is noted for its robust and muscular body, its dense and woolly blue-gray coat, and its large and expressive eyes, usually copper or golden in color. They are known to be calm, affectionate and very loyal to their owners.

General details

The Chartreux breed is of medium size, with males weighing between 5.5 and 7.5 kilograms, while females weigh between 3.5 and 5 kilograms. Their height is approximately 30 to 35 centimeters and their length varies between 40 and 50 centimeters, excluding the tail. Their life expectancy varies between 12 and 15 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Breed history in brief

The Chartreux cat is one of the oldest feline breeds and its history goes back several centuries in France. It is believed that the first Chartreux cats were brought from the Middle East by French crusaders and sailors during the Middle Ages. These cats settled in the Carthusian monasteries, from which their name derives, although there is no direct evidence linking them to the Carthusian monks. For centuries, Chartreuxes were prized for their ability to hunt mice and other pests. The breed was described and officially recognized in France in the 18th century. Today, the Chartreux is a breed appreciated all over the world for its sociability.

Breed characteristics

The Chartreux cat has a robust and muscular body, with a broad chest and strong legs. Its head is broad and rounded, with a narrow muzzle that forms a distinctive permanent smile. Large, round eyes, usually copper or gold in color, give it a friendly look. The medium-sized ears are set high on the head and slightly tilted forward. The tail is of medium length, thick at the base and tapering towards the tip. Its coat is dense, woolly and double-coated, always in a blue-gray tone. No other colors or patterns are allowed in the breed standards. They are calm, affectionate and loyal.

Common health problems

The Chartreux is considered a generally healthy breed. However, it can be prone to developing polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia.