What is a Russian Blue Cat?

The Russian blue cat is a breed that most likely came from the town of Archangel in Russia. These cats normally have a short, blue coat of hair tipped with silver on the end and bright green eyes. Most Russian blue cats are of medium size, not typically exceeding 10 inches (about 25 cm) in height or 12 pounds (roughly 5 kg) in weight. They tend to be very popular with breeders, possibly because of their uniquely colored coats or their playful, affectionate temperaments. The life span of the Russian blue cat is approximately 10 to 15 years, which is also in line with the life expectancy of most other cat breeds.

Russian blue cats tend to be extremely intelligent with a pleasant demeanor. They can make perfect companions for almost anyone, including people who have children or other pets. Russian blues normally love to play, and often do not outgrow their desire to do so as they become adults. They tend to become annoyed when their regular schedule is disrupted, however. This breed is usually very particular about keeping themselves clean, and prefers clean surroundings as well.

These cats tend to prefer living indoors, and normally have no problems being left alone during the day. An owner who lives alone and must leave daily to commute to work should be sure to leave plenty of toys and an adequate amount of food and water for the cat in their absence. A clean litter box is also very important because most Russian blue cats will not want to use a dirty one.

When Russian blues have kittens, the litters are typically on the small side. It is rare for a mother Russian blue to have more than four kittens in a litter. Occasionally the litter size will consist of only one or two kittens. Litters of up to six kittens are extremely rare for Russian blues, but not impossible. When purchased, most of these cats have already been spayed or neutered.

According to history, the Russian blue cat most likely came over from Russia to England in the late 1800s. People began displaying them in London cat shows around this time, and the breed slowly grew in popularity until the onset of World War II. During the war, the breed was almost eradicated along with several other cat breeds. Russian blues made a comeback in the mid 1900s when several cat breeders from the United States, Scandinavia, and other nations started crossing them with breeds of similar color in an effort to increase their numbers. These experiments could have changed the look of the breed forever, but by the 1970s the overall appearance of the Russian blue cat finally became consistent.

Russian Blue Cats are renowned for their elegant, slender bodies and fine-boned structure. They possess a unique silvery-blue coat that is dense and plush, thanks to a double layer of fur. Their striking green eyes are almond-shaped, setting off their triangular-shaped head and creating a captivating and expressive appearance.

While no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, Russian Blues are often considered more suitable for allergy sufferers. They produce lower levels of the glycoprotein Fel d 1, a common allergen, compared to other breeds. However, individual sensitivities vary, so spending time with a Russian Blue before adopting is advisable for those with allergies.

Russian Blue Cats are known for their gentle and reserved nature. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and can be quite affectionate. They are intelligent and playful, often enjoying interactive toys that challenge their minds. Despite their sociability, they may be shy around strangers, displaying a cautious but curious demeanor.

Russian Blue Cats are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, dense coat doesn't shed excessively and typically remains tangle-free. A weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. This not only keeps their coat in excellent condition but also helps to minimize allergens.

Russian Blue Cats are generally healthy and robust, with a lifespan that can extend from 15 to 20 years with proper care. They are not prone to many genetic health issues, but it's important to maintain regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise to support their long-term health and vitality.

To identify a true Russian Blue, look for their signature dense, silvery-blue coat and bright green eyes. Their body should be long and slender with fine bones and large ears that are wide at the base. Pedigree documentation is the most reliable method to confirm if your cat is a purebred Russian Blue.