Chausies: Championship Status in The International Cat Association (TICA) May 1, 2013

The Chausie, pronounced "chow-see," is a domestic breed of cat should resemble it's non-domestic ancestor, Felis chaus. Accordingly, the Chausie, is a tall, long legged, leand and supple cat. It is built for running and jumping over water, reed beds and other obsticle-filled terrain. Like a basketball player, the Chausie is ectomorphic, with musculature and lanky body low on bulk, built with the limberness and reach for a long stride and lightening pounce.The breed has a deep chest for lung capacity, but flat sides for light weight and flexibility. Like Felis chaus, Chausies have large, upright preferably tufted ears, a long forehead and muzzle and a slightly short tail. The eyes are flattened above and rounded below, above exotically slanting high cheekbones. The temperament is predominantly domestic. Chausies are good natured, loyal, highly intelligent and trainable.

The Chausie comes in three color-pattern combinations: brown ticked tabby, solid black, and black grizzled tabby.

The brown ticked tabby will have barring on the inside of the legs and to the hock on teh back legs. The grizzled tabby pattern is a pattern acquired from the breed's Jungle Cat ancstors. The patter is unique to this breed of domestic cat only. The hair shaft is banded with a lighter coloration at the skin (akin to mouse coat) a black base coat and alternating light bands ending with a black tip.

The Chausie is even more striking in motion. The Jungle Cat, which the Chausie closely resembles, is built for hunting, running, and jumping. The Chausie is all slinkiness and loose-limbed, lanky grace.

Personality - The Chausie is a highly active and athletic cat. chausies are almost conastantly in motion wihle interacting with their humans. Chausies are good natured affectionate cats that love to lpan and tend to develop a deep bond with their owners. This playful demeanor often lasts into adulthood making these cats intriguiing companions. Sociable in nature, Chausies love to play fetch and will often walk on a a leash. Due to their intelligence, Chausies need stimulation and interaction wit their owners. Otherwise they may not do well if left alone for long periods of time. If you want a couch potato this breed is not for you!