What Is a Russian Blue Cat?

A Russian Blue is a purebred cat with a plush, grayish blue coat and wide green eyes. They are known for being playful, affectionate, gentle, intelligent and shy around strangers.

  1. Origin

    • According to catster.com, Russian Blues likely descended from the royal pets of the Russian czars. Sailors brought them back to Europe in the 19th century, and they first appeared in the United States in the early 20th century. They were originally known as the Archangel Cat.

    First Cat Show

    • According to The Cat Fancier's Association, the first Russian Blue cat was shown at the Crystal Palace in England in 1875. In 1912 Russian Blues were shown in their own class for the first time.

    Breeding

    • Massive efforts from breeders around the world saved the Russian Blue from extinction after World War II, according to catster.com. In the 1960s a group of British breeders worked to purify the breed, restoring it to its original form.

    Characteristics

    • All Russian Blues have the same plush, grayish blue coat, according to RussianBlue.info. Their fur seems to shimmer because it is tipped in silver. They have a wedge shaped head and large, pointed ears.

    Ideal Owners

    • According to catster.com, Russian Blues are perfect for single working people, families with older children and first time cat owners.

    Quirk

    • Russian Blues are reportedly very picky about a clean litter box. If it is not kept up to their standards, they are likely to relieve themselves elsewhere.