Chantilly

Personality and Temperament

Sometimes called the Tiffany cat and sometimes referred to as the Chantilly cat, this unique breed has a soft, silky, semi long-haired coat and a sweet, friendly personality.

Registered Chantilly Tiffany cats are quite rare, but many medium-to-long haired domestic cats share similar characteristics in terms of personality and appearance.

Should you be fortunate enough to bring one of these kitties into your family, they’ll provide you with comforting companionship and delightfully playful antics.

Care

The Chantilly Tiffany cat has no special nutritional needs and will thrive on a diet of high-quality cat food. Choose a brand with plenty of omega-3 fatty acid to promote skin and coat health.

History

Chantilly Tiffany cats were first introduced in 1969, when a New York breeder named Jennie Robinson crossed a pair of chocolate colored cats of unknown heritage. These cats were originally believed to be semi-longhair Burmese. Even though contemporary breeders may outcross to several different breeds including European Angoras, Abyssinians, and Havana Browns in an effort to produce Chantilly Tiffany cats, they are prohibited from outcrossing to Burmese.

When the Chantilly cat breed was first registered, its original name was foreign longhair. The breeders decided that they'd prefer something different, so they called the breed Tiffany. This produced some confusion as the British cat registry GCCF already contained a breed called Tiffany, which was a cross between a Burmese and a Chinchilla Persian. The new breed was renamed Chantilly. It is normally referred to as such or as Chantilly/Tiffany.

The Breed Standard

Body

Chantilly Tiffany cats are medium-sized, with an average weight of 8 to 12 pounds. The body displays moderate musculature.

Head

The head is a broad wedge shape. Its contours are gently rounded. The muzzle is short and broad, lending a somewhat squared off appearance. The chin is firm and the cheekbones are high.

Ears

Chantilly Tiffany cats have medium-sized ears, often with prominent ear tufts and longer streamers or furnishings. The ears are wider at the base, and tips are well rounded.

Coat

The coat is soft, silky, and luxurious. It is of medium long length and has no undercoat. It takes approximately two years for the coat to reach its full length.

Color

While the first Chantilly Tiffany cats were always a deep chocolate color, other colors are now acceptable including blue, fawn, cinnamon, black, and lilac. Tabby patterns are sometimes displayed.

Eyes

The eyes have an oval shape and a slightly slanted profile. Eyes are golden in color and can deepen as the cat ages.

Legs & Paws

The legs are long and slender, with rounded paws.

Tail

Chantilly Tiffany cats have well-proportioned tails with luxurious plumes.