Russian Blue

1 Russian Blue Breed Overview

Russian Blue (details)

The Russian Blue, also called Russian Blue, Archangel Blue, or Maltese cat, English name Russian Blue, is also known as the ‘aristocrat of shorthairs’ and ‘elf of winter.’ Originating in the 19th century, early found only in Russia, now seen worldwide. Not only in China but globally, the Russian Blue is few in number; to buy one, prepare at least tens of thousands. If you see ones claimed cheap at a few thousand, they are hybrid cats.

The Russian Blue’s ancestors originated in Siberia, hence the ‘elf of winter’ name. First brought from Russia to Britain; to preserve the population, breeders crossed with Siamese, giving it Oriental flavor like the Siamese. Some bred transitional varieties not recognized as Russian Blue.

The Russian Blue entered China not long ago, in the 1960s. It is obedient and likes quiet, gaining many Chinese fans. But though quiet, it is clingy, following the owner everywhere; if you want your own space, it’s not suitable. If you don’t mind a little follower, it’s a close companion.

2 Russian Blue Physical Characteristics

Russian Blue (details)

Besides blue coat, does the Russian Blue have exclusive traits? Yes, it’s not a hybrid but from Russia. To continue the line after WWII (numbers dropped), early breeders crossed with Siamese, so you sense a hint of Oriental charm.

Detailed physical description of the Russian Blue

Head: Short wedge with straight lines; flat skull and forehead; medium muzzle; straight nose bridge, no break; strong chin.

Nose: Moderate length.

Chin: Medium height; jaw vertical from nose tip to chin.

Paws: Small, slightly round; front five toes, hind four.

Body: Long, foreign type, fine to medium frame; muscular.

Limbs: Long legs, fine bones, small round paws, oval.

Tail: Long and straight, proportional, tapering from moderately thick base to round tip.

Ears: Large, wide base, tips forward, slightly rounded, thin transparent skin, almost no inner fuzz.

Eyes: Large, wide-set, almond, slightly slanted. Color vivid green; kittens’ eyes yellow to green, final color at 1 year.

Body shape: Slender elegant with Oriental hint, solid bones, simple gorgeous coat; short, velvet texture, inner down resists cold, gray-blue, mink-like silver sheen, hence Russian Blue.

Coat: Short, dense and fine, plush, opening outward, soft silky, double coat with very thick undercoat; same solid blue-gray, silver sheen from silver tips; kitten birthmarks acceptable, gone by 1 year; long sun exposure darkens coat; black and white variants from Europe and NZ recognized by GCCF.

Most judge cats by coat color, so scammers exploit this. To buy authentic, use above traits or ask for pedigree or birth certificates.

3 Russian Blue Temperament

Russian Blue (details)

The Russian Blue is quiet; not one jumping around. You’ll find it quietly lying in favorite spots or silently following you. Too quiet, it dislikes strangers, hiding when seen. But with owners it’s enthusiastic, pleasing them, trusting, liking to be petted.

Though it likes petting, too-close contact stresses it slightly; keep proper distance, pet the body, but avoid tight hugs or constant carrying, or it may drift away from stress.

If you live in noise, it’s mental torture; it likes quiet, and noise makes it irritable and unhealthy long-term.

Though shy, it’s not hostile to strangers or animals; if friendly, it warms up, so no worry about other pets.

Also very smart, easy to train; basic skills in a week, harder ones need more time. Being sensitive, don’t punish often or it resents training.

4 Russian Blue Care Tips

Russian Blue (details)

Pure Russian Blues are few, so after hard-won, owners follow collected materials. But many fail to grasp the key; it seems harder. Actually care can start from ‘clothing, food, shelter, travel.’

Clothing, pet clothing isn’t rare; some dress pets for belonging, not warmth. The Russian Blue from Siberia isn’t cold-fearful; no need to worry. For looks, choose suitable clothes; if it dislikes, don’t force.

Food, like all cats, needs nutrition and heat from food; choose by preference. Feed fixed time and amount; prepare snacks when free. When away, store food bags; left on table, you’ll find an empty bag.

Shelter, a comfortable warm nest ensures good sleep; cats sleep over ten hours daily, so sleep matters. To avoid bacteria, change pads regularly and sun the nest.

Travel, the Russian Blue doesn’t like going out, prefers staying home. Forcing out may panic or stress it. Home activity usually suffices; if too little, play games, but if it won’t, don’t push.

5 Russian Blue Feeding Guidelines

Russian Blue (details)

Few in number, high price. For health, besides exercise and mood, control diet. Feeding isn’t as hard as thought; follow three principles, 1. fixed time and amount; 2. mind food taboos; 3. control snacks.