Russian Blue cats are unusual cats, similar to color as the Weimaraner breed of dog in color. Most cat people hate their cats being compared in any way to any member of the canine world, but none can deny that both creatures are striking, and for the same reason. The delicate blue hue of the Maltese cat set against those jewel like eyes make the Russian Blue cat an exotic pet like no other feline.
Colors Allowed
The only shade allowed to show to championship status is the pale blue shade, with the lighter of the shades being preferable. The cat does come in white and black shades as well, and there are one or two programs out there which cater to those rare kittens. But if you ask, more people prefer the old familiar shade of soft blue against bright yellow eyes. In any case, more important than shade, the physical structure of the cat, and how it moves. If a show cat is a must, lean to the lighter shades as they tend to do better than darker cats.
About the Russian Blue
The Russian Blue is a small to medium sized cat of varying design, due to the cross breeding used to save the breed. They are short haired and have a minimal grooming requirement. Generally they are fine structured animals with mild sweet, easy voices that they are not frequently used. These are shy animals, and they are not overly fond of strange people. Docile and gentle, they are best for older people and adults with quiet lifestyles. They are the essential “cat”, and will not be up your back end all day long and are more than happy to give their owners personal space. Russian Blue cats like toys, and love to play with their favorite humans. Russian Blues are healthy and hardy cats and are typically born in litters of two to four. Green eyes and round paws, with a gentle face make up the Russian Blue.
History of the Russian Blue Cat
All blue cats used to be called Maltese blue cats, and the Russian Blue cats were also called Archangel cats, after the area they supposedly came from. Legend has it that they were wild and hunted by local trappers for their beautiful pelt, which would explain their distaste of strange humans. In any event they came from Northern Russia in the 1800’s. Supposedly they came from Russia and became favorites of Queen Victoria, who also sported many blue Persians as well. Russian Blue cats were first exhibited at London’s Crystal Palace in 1875, and many referred to them as the Archangel cat. They were nearly extinct with the onset of World War Two; many cat fanciers lacked the means and ability to provide for their chosen breeds at the time. Several breeds were crossed in to save the Russian Blue, and this explains the wide variety in shapes and sizes. The foundation in the breed hails mostly from Britain and Sweden, and in 1949 the breed was officially accepted to the CFA.
Similar Breeds of Cat
Russian Blue kittens are still pretty rare, and are likely to be very expensive when you do find a quality litter, so if it is the lovely blue color you crave it can also be found in the British Short Hair. There are a fair few breeds out there resembling the Russian Blue kittens, and they will be on a lower pay scale than such a rare breed will be. I have even seen barn kitties offered in boxes for free with the lovely color of the Russian blue so if it is simply the color you crave than keep your eyes peeled at the local animal shelter and you may well get lucky, no papers required.
Care of Russian Blue Cats and Russian Blue Kittens
Like all cats, watch the plants and things in your home which could potentially poison your pet. Keep them flea free and bathed every two weeks to once a month, depending on your pet. A small soft brush will teach your Russian Blue kitten that grooming is a relaxing and soothing pastime with ones owner and high quality diet will bring out the high sheen in the coat. You must handle the kittens often as they really do have an aversion to people they don’t know, making sure your breeder has done the same will help you do that job.
Like all domestic cats, the genus of the Russian Blue cat is Felis.
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