The Chartreux (pronounced Char-TROO) is one of the oldest and most distinct of breeds. They carry a striking profile with their large bodies, quick movements, and “smiling” faces. The most renowned of their features is their coat, which has a unique greyish blue color. This deceptively short coat actually has two layers of fur, giving it high water resistance and a pleasant wooly texture.
Chartreux cats have been around for a long time, as they are a naturally occurring breed. Though they are native to France, how they got there is a mystery, surrounded by various legends (such as being brought over by Carthusian monks, or even tagging alongside knights returning from the Crusades in Syria). The earliest documentations of the Chartreux are from the 18th Century. The breed nearly went extinct during the two World Wars, but European breeders made strong efforts to restore the Chartreux populations. They even started to bring Chartreux cats to America, but the breed remains rare in both continents.
Those who manage to acquire a Chartreux, however, will quickly find themselves cherishing their good fortune. Chartreux cats are well known for being attentive, obedient, and affectionate. They are devoted to their owners, but are not overly aggressive or forceful, instead hovering around as a gentle companion. People who don’t like loud, obnoxious felines should pay special attention to the Chartreux, because they are one of the least talkative breeds of cat. Most speak only with quiet meows, and some are even mute, only capable of purring.
|
About the author:
A freelance writer/cartoonist living in LA, with my fiance' and our wonderful cat. You can see my work at www.rubysworldcomic.com and rubynation.smackjeeves.com
more >>
|
See something on the Internet that you'd like us to profile in this column? Anything about pet fashion, technology or interesting is good. Send us an email to editors@yeepet.com or leave a comment below.
Why Yeepet is great for 
