Learn more about the Russian blue, a playful cat with a regal appearance.
The Russian blue is known for its vibrant green eyes, plush fur and constant affection. Russian blues are intelligent, social creatures and prefer to stick to a routine. These cats are also gentle, sweet and playful, and could be just the cat for you.
Physical Traits and Appearance of Russian Blue Cats
The Russian blue’s appearance is marked by distinct green eyes and a thick, elegant, blue-silver fur coat. When they’re first born, the Russian blue’s eyes are yellow; their eyes gain a bright green rim around the pupil as kittens, and as adults their eyes are a vivid green.
The Russian blue’s double coat is silky and bluish gray with silver tips. This double coat also makes Russian blues appear bigger than they really are and hides a long, slender and muscular body.
Russian Blue Temperament and Personality Traits
Russian blues make great companions because they are:
- Gentle and sweet
- Well-behaved and easy to train
Able to entertain themselves
It may take a little time for a Russian blue to open up to a new owner, but once they do, expect your pet to follow you around the house and play endless games. Russian blues will likely get along with your whole family and other pets, but they often become attached to one particular person.
They are highly intelligent and love their routine. Don’t expect to sleep in — a Russian blue will likely wake you up so they don’t miss breakfast. They’re also vocal and appreciate a back-and-forth conversation. Russian blues can often tell if you are sad and will try to cheer you up with a snuggle or some playtime; they might even expect the same from you if they are feeling down.
Russian blues don’t mind being home alone, but they will greet you at the front door ready to play. They typically dislike strangers and can be shy and tentative around them. They startle easily and may need to be calmed after a scare.
Pro tip: Keep the litter box spotless. A Russian blue will often refuse to use a dirty litter box and instead will find somewhere else to do their business.
Health and Care of Russian Blue Cats
Fortunately, Russian blues don’t have any known predispositions for breed-specific health problems.1 However, they love to eat, so make sure to measure their food and set up a structured routine for mealtimes to help keep them at a healthy weight. Avoid giving too many treats or any table scraps, and watch for signs of obesity-related illness.
Russian blues have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. They can grow to be 10 inches long and can weigh 7 to 15 pounds.
Grooming the Russian Blue
Russian blue cats have low-maintenance grooming needs and brushing their sleek coat is not essential. However, you can use a medium-tooth comb to keep their plush double coat smooth and luxurious.
Are Russian Blue Cats Hypoallergenic?
Though no breed is truly hypoallergenic, some people refer to pets that shed less as hypoallergenic. Despite their dense double coats, Russian blues rarely shed — making them a great cat for owners with pet allergies.
Is a Russian Blue Right for You?
The Russian blue may be a perfect match for people with cat allergies. Once they warm up to you, Russian blues are some of the most affectionate and playful cats. They’re creatures of habit and appreciate a routine, so owners with consistent schedules are a good fit for this regal breed. And remember — while Russian blues don’t mind being alone, they’ll be ready and waiting at the door and will expect attention when you return home.
Considering bringing home a Russian blue? Check out our guide for first-time cat owners.
References
- International Cat Care. (2019, October 6). Russian Blue. Retrieved from https://icatcare.org/advice/russian-blue/
Related Articles
New Cat or Kitten: Our Downloadable Guide
Thinking about adding a feline to the family? There are so many emotional, social and physical benefits to owning a cat. Check out our free guide, also available to download!
