The Russian Blue Cat: Cat Breed Profile

The Russian Blue is a popular cat breed that comes from Russia. Best known for its blue coat, this attractive and sophisticated cat is a great companion for many families. Although the Russian Blue is called “blue”, it’s important to remember that this specialized term doesn’t mean you’re going to get a navy or baby blue feline. Blue is a term used to describe a dilute version of black, which is why you might commonly describe these kitties as grey.

The Russian Blue is a bit of a mysterious feline because there aren’t any exact dates to indicate when the breed first became available. However, it is one of the first fully recognized cat breeds, known for its love of playing fetch, and it’s affectionate nature. Most Russian blues get along with children and other pets (including dogs).

A Quick History of the Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a mid to large-sized cat with long legs and a graceful stance. These felines are very sophisticated, with large ears and prominent whisker pads that give them a very emotive face. Although the exact origins of the Russian Blue are difficult to pin down, many experts agree that these were some of the first kitties to appear in the world. 

Formerly known as “Archangel cats”, blue kitties from Russia first arrived in the US on ships travelling from the Russian Archangel island. The cat quickly became a popular choice for a pet among royals and Russian Czars.

Shipped around Europe, Russian blues were contestants for some of the world’s first cat shows in the 1880s. The United States recognizes the Russian Blue with approval from the International Cat Association and the Cat Fanciers’ Association.

Characteristics / Attitude of the Russian Blue Cat

The Russian Blue cat is one of the more shy and reserved felines available today, however they’re also extremely loyal to their human friends. These kitties are more likely to be cautious when introduced to strangers and may take a while to develop a firm friendship with a human. However, they do get along well with gentle children and other pets. 

After they settle into their new homes, Russian cats are extremely playful, often running around, jumping, and climbing as much as they can. The agile and lightweight nature of the Russian Blue makes it quite the acrobat.

Russian blue cats are often high on lists of hypoallergenic breeds. Although no cat is completely non-allergenic, many sufferers can live well with Russian Blues. That’s because cat dander is commonly responsible for cat allergies. Humans allergic to cats are sensitive to a protein named Fel D1, found on cat skin cells and fur. Russian blues naturally produce less of this dander than other kitties.

Russian Blues are also extremely intelligent cats that you can train to perform a wide range of activities. These beautiful kitties aren’t very talkative, but they will respond when you speak to them sometimes. You can also teach your cat to play fetch – Russian blue’s absolutely love this game, and they’ll follow you around the house – just like a dog.

Russian Blue Cat Breed Care

The Russian Blue cat comes with a trademark shimmery blue coat with a silvery shine to it. The short and plush coat of the Russian Blue is stunning, and it’s relatively easy to care for too. Generally, you won’t need to groom your Blue much, and the coat doesn’t shed too often. Occasional brushing is all it takes to keep your feline friend silky soft. 

For some people, the most striking part of the Russian Blue is its large emerald green eyes. The unique shape of this cat’s head and neck mean that the eyes often look particularly large, and the Blue often seems to have a charming expression. Just make sure that you see a vet if you ever notice issues with your kitty’s eyes. 

It’s important to keep your cat’s claws trimmed regularly and check their ears for any sign of debris or dirt. If you do see a little dirt in your cat’s ears, find a safe cleaner and a cotton ball to wipe the ears. If your feline starts to shake its head or scratch, see a vet. 

The mid-sized Russian blue is a fine-boned feline with an elegant and slender appearance. However, this cat is also quite muscular. For exercise, it’s important to ensure that your cat has a scratching post for regular stretching. The good news is that your Russian Blue can often keep itself entertained and exercise on its own, without needing constant human attention. You can regulate your cat’s weight and contribute to a healthy life by controlling food portions.

Russian Blue Cat Common Health Issues

Though some purebred kitties get hereditary diseases, Russian Blue cat is a healthy cat that doesn’t seem particularly susceptible to any genetic illnesses or disorders. The breed even enjoys an extremely long lifespan. However, as with most cats, it’s important to ensure that you get regular check-ups for your feline to ensure they’re doing well. 

Work with your vet to make sure that your kitty is up to date with any annual exams and routine vaccines or testing. It’s a good idea to ensure you’re keeping on top of cat dental care too.

Recommended Diets

It’s a good idea to check with your vet if you’re not sure what you should be feeding your Russian Blue. This is a cat that has a habit of eating way more than it should, so you’re going to need to be cautious about portion control. Watch out for over-feeding and try not to let your feline friend take too much food from your plate. 

Making sure your cat stays slender is important to help it stay as healthy as possible. A good diet will reduce the risk of things like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Feed your Blue measured amounts of cat food. Always have fresh water available for your cat throughout the night and day.

This might help you in then right direction, this is our latest best wet cat food guide! 

Some Helpful Facts About Russian Blue Cats

The Russian Blue is an attractive feline with royal roots. In 1912, the Russian Blue got its own classification within the United States. After World War 2, this breed grabbed the hearts of pet owners around the world and has been gaining popularity over the years.

Russian Blue cats have a connection to the digital world too. According to experts, this stunning feline inspired the world’s most famous animated cat – Nyan Cat. The flying pop-tart and cat hybrid came from illustrator Chris Torres, who had his own Russian Blue kitty named Marty. 

The Russian Blue’s distinct silvery fur comes from a diluted version of the gene responsible for creating black haired cat. If you mate two Russian Blue’s, they’ll create all grey kittens.

Final Thoughts on Russian Blue Cats 

If you want a furry friend with a calm and cheerful personality, the Russian Blue is a great choice. Although this feline might be a little nervous around strangers initially, it’s also extremely affectionate and loyal. The Russian Blue also likes sitting quietly by your side while you relax and following you around the house from time to time. 

If you’re feeling playful, the Russian Blue will be happy for your attention, and will often indulge you in a game of fetch. However, these cats can live without the attention of their humans for some time and know how to entertain themselves.

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