Featured Breed

Despite what some may think, Russian Blues are not just an ordinary grey cat.

Unlike other cat breeds, there’s little known information about the origin of this unique cat breed. Many cat aficionados tend to think the Russian Blue may have descended from the felines kept by the Russian Czar families in the early 1700 to 1800s. Others note the Russian Blue most likely originated from the northwest regions of Russia. To highlight their illustrious history, the Russian Blue is fabled to have roamed the frigid wilderness, sometimes hunted for their dense, silvery coat.

As time progressed, Russian Blues were admired for their striking coat and piercing green eyes. Because of these unique characteristics, they were imported to the United States in the early 1900s. However, it wasn’t until after World War II that North American breeders began combining their European bloodlines to produce the Russian Blue cats we see today. The breed was officially recognized in 1912.

After their initial debut in the United States, the Russian Blue began gaining popularity in the 1960s for both the show ring and family atmosphere. According to some, the ancestors of the Russian Blue still live in the bleakest regions of Russia to this day.

Prudent Pet Fact: Russian Blue cats were one of the very first cats to attend the world’s first official cat show

A fluffy kitten

Russian Blues are considered to be a part of the short-haired breed category.

Their plush, silvery grey coat and piercing green eyes make Russian Blues one of the most distinct, short-haired cats.

Due to their history in Northwestern Russia, Russian Blues have a very dense double-layered coat that keeps them well insulated and incredibly soft. If you look closely at the Russian Blue’s coat, the tips are capped in what looks like silver paint, giving the cat their namesake: Blue.

When it comes to their body shape, Russian Blues are lean and muscular. Their cross-breeding changed some of their characteristics over time; however, the Russian Blues we see today closely resemble those of their original ancestors.

In addition, they’re a stoic cat with pointed ears and wide, curious eyes. The Russian Blue’s long legs give them the ability to run fast and climb efficiently. Their slender, muscular bodies combined with a curious mind, allow them to squeeze into small spaces while exploring.

When it comes to their personality, Russian Blues are calm, affectionate, and fun-loving. They can be seen playing with toys and getting into mischief. They are not a clingy cat species; however, they’re known to develop a strong, loyal bond with one person in the household – specifically the one who attends to their needs regularly. Although every cat has unique preferences, many people say their Russian Blue gets along well with other cats and dogs.

Prudent Pet Fact: The Russian Blue is often chosen for a family pet due to its low-allergen characteristics. Russian Blues naturally produce lower levels of the glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is the allergenic protein in cat saliva and dander that induces allergic reactions.

Thankfully, the Russian Blue is one of the few breeds that seem to have fewer health concerns when compared to other kinds of cats. They’re considered to be a rather genetically healthy breed, mainly due to its commonality and decreased inbreeding. However, be aware of these Russian Blue cat health issues:

At a glance

Covering your Russian Blue

Due to the fact they live between 15-20 years, caring for Russian Blue health issues can begin to add up as they progress in life.

With their curious personality and agile body, minor accidents are bound to occur. It’s important to take proactive measures, such as enrolling your Russian Blue cat in pet insurance at an early age. Although Russian Blues have fewer health concerns than other breeds, routine checkups are a key component of owning any cat no matter the breed.

Here at Prudent Pet, we believe proactive healthcare, is the best healthcare. Not only does pet insurance help save you money on sudden accidents or illnesses, but it can save you peace of mind when it comes to your beloved feline friend. No matter what life throws your way, you’ll be ready with pet insurance.
If you’re interested in learning more about pet insurance for Russian Blue cats or any other pet, explore our website and click the button below to start the process today.

Rescue a kitty

Looking to rescue a Russian Blue cat? Here are some of the top Russian Blue rescues in the country: