The Chartreux has a calm disposition. They are generally quiet, friendly, and cautious cats. The breed rarely meows, and when it does, the sound is often slightly different from the usual "meow."

These cats are also known for their unique and quiet way of communicating. They often express themselves through eye contact and gazes with their characteristic orange eyes, rather than making a sound. However, you can expect to hear a modest meow if it is really necessary. With these cats, it is therefore necessary to be observant to be able to detect if they are in pain anywhere, as they will likely “suffer in silence”.

Chartreux cats are attentive and intelligent, but also cuddly and affectionate. In the fashion of many other cat breeds, a Chartreux can happily lie on your lap. They usually form strong bonds with one family member and will often follow their favorite, but they are also happy with the rest of their family. The breed gets along well with children and other pets, and they are rarely aggressive. They are also easy to travel with and are generally healthy.

Although the Chartreux can be a good hunter and loves to be active, it does not require constant attention. If the cat is in a playful mood, it will often take the initiative to fetch a toy. However, sufficient activity and mental stimulation are always important, so activity toys are a great option.

Size and appearance

The Chartreux is a medium-sized cat with a broad chest, muscular neck, powerful jaws and a well-developed muzzle. The head is wider at the base and narrower at the top, with broadly rounded contours. The breed also has characteristic large and expressive eyes, with colors ranging from amber to copper. The coat color is gray-blue.

Weight

Male cats usually weigh between 5 and 8 kg, while female cats weigh from 3 to 5 kg.

Lifespan

12 - 15 years

Hereditary diseases

The Chartreux breed is generally healthy, but like many other cat breeds, it is genetically predisposed to certain hereditary diseases. These include polycystic kidney disease , a condition in which fluid-filled cysts in one or both kidneys prevent normal kidney function. They are also prone to struvite crystals in the urinary bladder and patellar luxation .

When it comes to grooming the Chartreux, regular brushing is enough to keep the coat looking good. The undercoat sheds a couple of times a year, and during these periods it is a good idea to brush daily. Bathing can be challenging due to the thickness and texture of the coat.

When choosing cat food for a Chartreux, you need to consider the type of nutrition it needs based on its health and individual lifestyle. For example, if you have a Chartreux kitten, it will need a different type of food than an older cat.

As mentioned, Chartreux cats are prone to developing struvite crystals in the urinary bladder, which can occur due to lack of fluid intake or too alkaline urine. Therefore, proper nutrition and access to fresh water are essential as a preventive measure. Including wet food in your cat's diet can also be an effective way to increase fluid intake, especially for cats that do not drink enough water.