The Chartreuse cat is French by origin, although it bears a strong resemblance to other breeds such as the British Blue and is sometimes confused with them. It is in fact a Parisian cat, since it was bred by nuns of the Chartreuse order, whose convent was once situated on the’ present site of the Gardens of Luxembourg.
Once classed as an ordinary European domestic cat it is now a sought-after archetypal breed. The Chartreuse has a good head with full cheeks which give it a rounded appearance. The French writer Colette, who loved the Chartreuse, described it as “my little teddy bear with its cheeks full”.
Neither restless nor noisy, it gives a £urprising impression of quiet strength when it moves. The Chartreuse sounds a tranquil note in its home, the symbol of quiet repose. It loves to take a nap on a cushion by its owner’s side -to whom it is obviously devoted. It will go for walks with its owner, just like a dog, and has been called a “dog in a cat suit”! It is inclined to be a wanderer but never vanishes for long.
Away from its beloved owner it can, like the Siamese, literally waste away. It will, however, recover of its own accord once home again and is soon playing and hunting as before. To keep the woolly look to its coat, it should be. brushed twice a week and should also be carefully checked over, since the thickness of the coat can encourage and hide parasites.
Rarely ill, the Chartreuse has a good appetite. Its meals need to be weighed and planned if it is not to become obese. It needs meals which are low in raw meat and include raw and cooked vegetables. Avoid fatty or starchy foods and pork.
General:
Strong and solidly built with a thick neck. Medium sized, muscular paws. The male, much heavier and stronger than the female, can weigh as much (JS 6 kilos (13 pounds). Medium long tail, slightly rounded.
Head:
Not as round as it looks. Ears placed high on the head but sloping. Solid jaw and almost biack mouth. The wide-open, round, bright eyes are orange or amber. Blue grey nose.
Coat:
Short haired, glossy and like velvet to the touch, it is unique to the breed. The undercoat, which is the same colour, is very thick. Colours go from grey to blue grey, the most sought after being light bluish grey. There should be no shading, marking or tipping.