Chartreux

Overview

Overview of Chartreux

Often confused with the British Shorthair, the Chartreux is one of France's oldest and most beloved natural breeds. The breed's representations date back to 1747 when French master Jean Baptiste Perronneau painted one of these silver beauties in his portrait of Magdaleine Pinceloup de la Grange. The origins of the breed are shrouded in mystery. However, there is a legend that Chartreux cats lived as companions of the Carthusian monks of France, and their quiet demeanor is due to their vow of silence with the monks! Some have speculated that blue cats originated in Syria, and were brought to French monasteries by returning crusaders in the 13th century, many of whom became members of the Carthusian monastic order. These cats are also well-loved across the pond in Eastern Canada where Ste-Cat - the official mascot for the Montreal Jazz Festival is a Chartreux! Their double coats are almost weather resistant and require weekly brushing to stay ahead of mats and tangles. Chartreux kittens only come in the color blue-gray, much like their cousins the Korat and the Russian Blue. If you have your heart set on one of these beauties, it may be tough to track down a reputable breeder in North America because they are rare, even in France!