The Russian Blue is a striking, medium sized blue cat with a moderately 'foreign' body type, similar to a Siamese. This cat breed, also known as the Archangel cat, features a long, lithe, and muscular build. Its wedge shaped head, combined with wide cheekbones, creates an open, smiling face framed by large, flared ears. The Russian Blue has long, lean legs with neat, small, oval shaped paws. Renowned for their dense, thick, and plush double coat, these blue gray cats are easily recognizable. The breed’s enchanting green eyes add to the appeal of the blue kitten and adult Russian Blue alike.

How long do Russian Blue cats live? - 10 - 15 years.

How big do Russian Blue cats get? - 3.0kg to 7.0kg.

Russian Blue colours - Russian Blue cats have a medium silvery blue shade without any white markings or ghost patterns.

• Russian Blue Cats are ideal for first time cat owners.
• This cat breed is playful and active at home.
• The Blue Cat has a calm temperament.
• The Russian Blue is sociable and affectionate.
• This cat breed has a quiet nature.
• The Blue Cat has a medium build.
• The Russian Blue requires weekly grooming.
• This cat breed enjoys both indoor and outdoor spaces
• The Blue Cat is not the best fit for family homes
• The Russian Blue cat can be left alone during the day
• This cat breed thrives in a calm environment

The Russian Blue cat breed is not widely known to have any significant health issues.

The Russian Blue is an engaging and elegant cat. This highly intelligent breed is somewhat reserved with strangers, preferring to observe from a distance and assess a new person's worthiness before offering head rubs and lap time. Once a Russian Blue has evaluated and approved you, they become extremely affectionate, with their striking green eyes showing trust. Playful and loving, they make delightful and relatively undemanding companions.

The Russian Blue, a distinguished cat breed, showcases a sleek and muscular body adorned with a dense double coat in a striking blue gray hue, often with a silvery sheen. Its wedge shaped head is complemented by wide cheekbones and large, flared ears, enhancing its intelligent and expressive green eyes. This breed's blue gray fur makes both blue kittens and adults instantly recognizable, emphasizing its elegant appearance and agile build.

• Family-friendly:   2/5
• Playfulness:   1/5
• Intelligence:   3/5
• Tendency to Vocalize:   2/5
• Likes Other Pets:   4/5
• Grooming needs:   1/5
• Shedding:   4/5

The Russian Blue, a cat breed with origins traced back to Arkhangelsk, Russia in the 1800s, has a somewhat enigmatic history. Alongside its well-known blue variant, there are closely related varieties like the Russian White and Russian Black, although these are rarely seen in the UK. The breed first appeared in UK shows in the 1880s. Russian Blues typically have a lifespan of around 15 years.

The Russian Blue is well suited to outdoor life but due to their attractive appearance, they can be susceptible to theft if left unsupervised in an insecure garden. It's advisable to provide a secure cat run with climbing branches, tree trunks, and sunbathing platforms, or ensure your garden is fully cat proofed and secure.

Russian Blues delight in cat playtime, food-dispensing toys, and cuddles on your lap. They are content with some alone time, provided their needs are fulfilled and it isn't excessive. Enhance their playtime with stimulating toys like a Cat Tunnel Toy, Whack-a-Mole Cat Toy, Cat Wand Toy, Cat Fishing Rod Toy, or Flying Bird Cat Toy. When socializing with visitors and children, Russian Blues may initially be cautious due to their wariness of strangers, but their friendly nature makes this process manageable.

Every Russian Blue cat is unique, with its own specific likes, dislikes, and nutritional requirements. As obligate carnivores, Russian Blues need to obtain 41 essential nutrients from their diet. The balance of these nutrients should be adjusted according to their age, activity level, and overall health. For example, a growing, active Russian Blue kitten requires a different nutrient profile compared to a less active senior cat. It's important to follow feeding guidelines to maintain their 'ideal body condition' and consider individual preferences for wet or dry cat food. Learn more about feeding your Russian Blue with our comprehensive guide on cat nutrition.

Russian Blues require minimal grooming due to their self sufficient grooming habits, but it's beneficial to establish a weekly routine to inspect for parasites like fleas and check for any injuries. A greasy coat may indicate health issues or decreased grooming, which should prompt veterinary attention. For optimal health, Russian Blues should receive regular vaccinations and parasite prevention.

The Russian Blue thrives in a home with older children and adults, as they are somewhat reserved and cautious around very young children and may prefer a quieter environment. A household with a constant flow of visitors might cause them to retreat and hide. Learn more about socializing kittens in our informative article.

• Silent Meow - They are known for having a soft, gentle voice and are not very vocal compared to some other cat breeds.

• Ancient Roots - Russian Blues are believed to have originated in Russia, possibly from Archangel Isles in the White Sea.

• Green Eyes - Most Russian Blues have striking emerald green eyes, which contrast beautifully with their blue gray fur.

1. How much is a Russian Blue cat?

In the United Kingdom, the cost of a Russian Blue cat can range widely depending on similar factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and whether the cat is intended for cat shows or pet purposes. On average, you might expect to pay between £300 to £1,800 GBP for a Russian Blue kitten from a reputable breeder. Show quality Russian Blues or those with exceptional pedigrees may be priced higher.

2. Why is my Russian Blue cat so mean?

A Russian Blue cat may exhibit what appears to be "mean" behavior due to a variety of reasons. It's essential to consider factors such as health issues, stress or anxiety from changes in their environment, insufficient socialization, lack of mental stimulation, or territorial instincts. Russian Blues are typically reserved and may be wary of unfamiliar situations or people if not properly socialized.

3. Are Russian Blue cats Hypoallergenic?

Russian Blue cats are often considered hypoallergenic, which means they may produce fewer allergens compared to other cat breeds. This is because they have minimal undercoat and produce less dander, which is a common allergen for humans. However, no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, as individual allergic reactions can vary. Some people with allergies to cats may still react to Russian Blues, albeit potentially to a lesser extent than with other breeds.

4. Do Russian Blue cats get along with other pets?

Russian Blue cats can generally get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats, especially if they are properly introduced and socialized. They have a calm and gentle demeanor, which can help them adapt to living with other animals in the household. However, as with any introduction between pets, it's essential to proceed gradually and monitor their interactions to ensure they are comfortable and safe with each other.

5. How can I find a reputable Russian Blue cat breeder?

To find a reputable Russian Blue cat breeder in the UK, start by researching online and checking breed club websites like The Russian & Abyssinian Cat Club of Scotland or The Russian Blue Breeders Association. These organizations often list registered breeders who adhere to breed standards and ethical practices. Reach out to breeders directly to inquire about their breeding practices, health screenings, and socialization methods. Arrange visits to their cattery to meet the cats and observe their living conditions.