Height
35 x 45 cm
Adult Weight
5.5-11 kg
Life Span
10-15 years
Origin
Egypt, South Asia
Personality and Temperament
If the Chausie cat reminds you of a larger Abyssinian, you’re absolutely right! This impressive breed was created by crossing jungle cats (also known as swamp cats or reed cats) from Southeast Asia with domesticated Abyssinians.
Weighing in at up to 30 pounds, Chausies are among the largest domesticated cats in the world. As hybrids, each Chausie has its own distinct personality, often as big and bold as their size. These cats are known for forming strong bonds with their families and prefer not to be left alone, making them loyal companions who thrive on interaction and attention.
Care
Nutration:
The Chausie cat requires an all-meat diet, as many of them struggle to digest plant matter. It’s essential to feed them high-quality, meat-based food and avoid foods containing vegetables or grains, which can be difficult for them to process. A protein-rich diet will help keep them healthy and energized, supporting their active, energetic nature.
Grooming:
Chausie cats have short coats that are easy to maintain with minimal grooming. A weekly brushing is enough to keep shedding under control and offers a great opportunity to bond with your cat. Given their high energy and large size, it’s also a good idea to keep their claws clipped short. While they don’t intend to damage furniture or belongings, their playful nature and strong claws can sometimes lead to unintended scratches. Regular nail trims will help prevent this and keep your home safe from scratches!
Exercise:
Chausie cats require plenty of exercise. Their wild nature demands access to a tall cat tower, multiple scratching posts, and plenty of toys. A Chausie cat happily engages in exercise on its own, but appreciates interaction from human family members.
Health:
Chausie cats are generally healthy, but they can suffer from malnutrition if their diet isn’t strictly animal-based. Since they are obligate carnivores, it’s crucial to feed them a high-protein, meat-only diet that provides all the essential nutrients they need to thrive. This ensures they stay in top condition and maintain their energy levels, given their active and robust nature.
History
It is believed that Chausie cats share some Characteristics with early domesticated hybrid cats from Egypt and the surrounding area. These cats share similarities with some of the mummified cat remains found in Egyptian tombs.
Even though hybrid cats have been in existence since ancient times, the Chausie cat stands out for its fairly modern roots. Breeders began to experiment with crossing jungle cats (Felis Chaus) with Abyssinians in the 1990s. The result was the Chausie, a robust hybrid cat with wild looks and an independent personality.
The Chausie cat breed was formally recognized by The International Cat Association in 1995.
