Observant | Elegant | Independent. The Russian Blue is one of the oldest pedigrees recognised by the GCCF and is renowned for its sophisticated charm and beauty. With its signature bluey grey plush coat and captivating green eyes, they’re a mystical breed that are quite rare in the UK. With this they bring a hefty price tag, however, their owners believe they’re totally worth it. Let’s find out why...

Russian Blue Basics:

Average Lifespan: 15-20 years

Average Weight: 4-8kg

Colour: Grey/blue

Shedding: Low

History of the Russian Blue

The true origins of the Russian Blue are as mysterious as they are, but from what we know the first recognised Russian Blue came from the Arkhangelsk port in Russia, 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle in the mid-1800s. This port was referred to as the Archangel port by British sailors who would stop here to trade which is where the Russian Blue gets its nickname as the Archangel cat. 

At this port, sailors would trade for Russian Blues and some cheeky felines would sneak their way onto British ships, likely hunting stowaway rats and mice. Slowly, more and more Russian Blues made their way to the shores of the UK, with one even being traded for a leg of mutton at the London docks in 1890. 

Eventually, they garnered popularity, with the Russian Blue Association being formed in 1867 to support the breeding of this angelic kitty-cat. By 1912, the Russian Blue gained GCCF recognition and was seen regularly in cat shows across the country.

The Russian Blue Mystique

Russian Blues are undeniably beautiful cats. They have a short but thick double coat that has a steel blue colour similar to the British Shorthair. This was purrfect for keeping them snuggly and warm during the cold Russian winters. 

They have a medium and strong build but it’s the plushness of their thick coat that really gives them their puffiness. The magic continues with yellowy green eyes as a kitten which change into an emerald green in adulthood. Long legs allow them to run fast after laser pointers and prance around gracefully showing off their eternal beauty to anyone who will stare. Their lips are slightly upturned which gives them a sort of Mona Lisa smile making them look content and happy wherever they go.

Purr-sonality of the Russian Blue

Russian Blues are intelligent sophisticats. They make adoring companions and loyal fur friends. Some people describe Russian Blues as aloof, however, these are usually ones that don’t know them very well. Russian Blues are very observant and can take their time to trust new visitors or new additions to the furmily. However, with a little patience and a whole lot of love, Russian Blues eventually show their true colours as affectionate and loving kitty-cats.

These cats are known for their independence, so do great with busy pawfessional families who don’t want to be concerned about leaving their furry friend at home from time to time. Their big brains and love of playtime means it’s impawtent to surround your Russian Blue with lots of toys to keep them busy and prevent boredom. They love to climb high and observe the world around them so investing in a climbing frame is be a good idea to keep these kitties purring.

Russian Blues aren’t known to be loud vocal cats and are great with children and cat-friendly dogs, just make sure to be patient when introducing new people or pets into the mix.

Do Russian Blues Need Much Grooming?

With an independent personality and short coat, Russian Blues are a low-maintenance breed of kitty-cat. Although their coat is short, it is thick so benefits from a weekly brush to keep it sleek and glossy. Russian Blues don’t shed much. However, as a breed with a double coat, they will shed more heavily at the change of seasons in Spring and Autumn to make way for their new coat to grow in.

How Much Does a Russian Blue Cost?

As a relatively rare breed of cat, adding a Russian Blue to your fur fam can definitely dent the wallet. These kitties can cost up to £1800 when bought from a breeder, however, if you get lucky and find a rescue, the cost will be significantly lower.

Like with any cat, it’s a good idea to take out quality pet insurance. This way you can rest assured knowing that you’ll be able to afford any hefty vet bills. This can range from £15-30 per month depending on the cover.

You’ll also need to feed your Russian Blue a high-quality cat food that’s nutritionally dense and high in animal meat to satisfy the carnivore within. This way you can keep your Russian Blue in top condition, maintain their elegant coat, and keep them grinning from ear to ear.

Scrumbles, The Pawfect Match for Russian Blues

If you’re looking for a cat food for your Russian Blue that’s made from high-quality ingredients that won’t need you to take a mortgage out to buy, why not make the switch to Scrumbles Gut Friendly Cat Food?

Here’s why you and your angelic kitty-cat will love our cat food:

1.  High in Human-Grade Animal Meat - Our recipes are packed with up to 77% human-grade animal meat to provide all the nutrients your obligate carnivore Russian Blue needs to thrive. 
2.  Digestible and Kind on Tummies - We add gut-loving prebiotics or probiotics to all of our cat food and treats and avoid artificial nasties like added salt, sugar and fillers that upset floofy stomachs.
3.  Hypoallergenic - We avoid common allergens such as dairy, soy, gluten and egg to satisfy even the most sensitive cats.
4.  Vet-Approved, Complete Recipes – all of our wet and dry cat food recipes are nutritionally balanced and complete so that you can feed your cat these recipes every day with the confidence in knowing that your cat will be getting everything they need from their dinner bowl.
5. Climate Conscious - we use eco-friendly packaging, are proud to be B-Corp certified and are committed to reducing our carbon footprint making Scrumbles the best choice for your cat’s health and your own climate-conscious values!

Whilst you're here, why not read:

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2. Dandruff in cats

3. Snowshoe Cat Breed Guide