Chartreux
Also known as: Chartreux Cat
A quiet French blue cat with a smiling face and a hunter's calm.
- Quiet
- Gentle
- Observant
- Affectionate
- Calm
The Chartreux is a rare natural breed from France, known for its dense blue-grey coat, copper eyes and gentle smile-like expression. Chartreux are quiet, observant and affectionate, often following one person around the house. They are robust, adaptable cats with excellent hunting instincts and a calm temperament.
At a glance
- Origin
- France
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 7–15 lb (3–7 kg)
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, woolly water-resistant double coat
- Colours
- Blue-grey
- Average cost
- $50–$95 / month
Breed ratings
Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.
Temperament
Chartreux are calm and affectionate, often following one person. They are quiet and adaptable.
Care & upkeep
Exercise
Two 10–15 minute play sessions daily. Strong hunting instinct.
Grooming
Weekly brushing, more during the seasonal shed.
Training
Intelligent and can learn fetch and simple tricks.
Feeding & diet
- Typical diet
- High-protein wet-led diet
- Daily amount
- 180–260 g wet food, or equivalent
- Meals per day
- 2 meals a day
Measure portions and avoid free-feeding dry food.
Foods to avoid
- Onion and garlic
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Raw dough
- Milk
Who this breed suits
A good match for
- Families with children
- Apartments
- Owners who work outside the home
- Multi-pet households
Probably not for
- Owners wanting a vocal, demanding cat
Common health problems
This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.
- Patellar luxationSlipping kneecaps occur in the breed.
- Dental diseaseCommon — brush teeth regularly.
- ObesityMuscular cats that gain weight when inactive.
A robust natural breed with few inherited problems.
Interesting facts
- Legend links the breed to Carthusian monks in France.
- Kittens are born with a slightly different coat that darkens with age.
- Known for a quiet chirp rather than a loud meow.
Diet & Feeding
Feed around 180–260 g of quality wet food daily across two meals. Chartreux are muscular, solid cats that can gain weight if inactive. Weigh monthly and avoid free-feeding dry food.
Exercise & Play
Two 10–15 minute play sessions daily. Chartreux are calm but have strong hunting instincts and love wand toys and fetch. Provide climbing space and puzzle feeders.
Grooming
The dense coat needs brushing weekly, more during seasonal shedding. Trim nails every two to three weeks and brush teeth regularly.
Health & Vet Care
Generally healthy. Watch for patellar luxation, dental disease and obesity. Ask breeders about patella checks.
Living with a Chartreux
Chartreux are quiet, affectionate and adaptable. They often attach to one person, are good with children and dogs, and cope well with being alone during the day. Their soft voice means many rarely meow.
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