Russian Blue Cat: Discover 17 reasons why they are the best
If you are looking for an elegant and intelligent pet, you may not find anything quite as special as the Russian Blue cat.
Loyal with a sweet temper, the Russian blue is known to follow the owner around and she tends to get attached to one person in the family. It doesn’t mean that she will not show affection to other members of the family. She also expects affection from her human family.
They are very social creatures but also enjoy alone time and will actively seek a quiet, private place in which to sleep. They don’t mind too much if you’re away at work all day, but they do require a lot of playtime when you are home. Russian blues tend to shy away from visitors and may hide during large gatherings.
Adored by Instagram stars and cat lovers everywhere, let’s talk about some of the reasons why the Russian Blue cat is special.
1. Intelligent
Russian Blue cats are very smart and attentive. Cats in general are perceived as being more intelligent than dogs as they are more reserved and tend to exhibit more common sense.
The Russian Blue cat is no exception. It is recommended that you make sure your kitty is receiving the mental stimulation it needs through play and toys so that it stays happy and well behaved. It will be very curious and pay close attention to your activities.
2. Extreme Good Looks
This cat really sets a record when it comes to elegance and sophistication. It is slender but muscular and very fast.
Its short coat is actually a special double layer. The bottom layer is soft and downy while the top layer has a more even color with silver ends. The effect is stunning. Your cat will shimmer and look brilliant.
They are aware of their good looks and take care to groom themselves well. They will often strike a pose for you to admire. Time to pull out the camera and grab a couple of shots for the Gram! The feel of their fur is also luxurious and silky.
3. Unusual Coloring
The term “blue” in referring to the animal’s coat actually means a grey color. This is a result of a diluted gene (stemming from a black-haired gene).
The coloring is rare and is particularly becoming on the sleek Russian Blue cat. The color could range from very light to dark grey and helps the ethereal cat blend into the shadows when it so desires.
You may notice light-colored tabby streaks in kittens, but these marks will disappear quickly as the kitten grows. Adult Russian Blues are a solid color.
4. Unique eye color
The eyes of the Russian Blue cat is very striking. As a kitten, the eyes will be yellow, with green around the edges. However, the older the cat gets, the greener and more brilliant their eyes become.
The unique eye color of the Russian Blue cat has completely captivated cat lovers and Instagram stars who just cannot get enough of the striking, soulful gaze.
5. Their smile
The triangular head and pointed ears of the Russian Blue cat gives it a sophisticated look. Their mouth is slightly upturned which most people see as a natural smile. Similar to the famous Mona Lisa, they smile and indulge you, but they don’t reveal too much. Perhaps the smile is another thing that makes Russian Blues so photogenic.
6. Appear larger than they are
Their dense double layer coat can make them appear bigger than they really are. They have a slender, elegant frame, but their thick ruff can hide their neck and shoulders, giving them an even more imposing appearance.
7. Well behaved
Good looks and good manners in the same cat! Not only is this regal animal beautiful, but its good behavior may also stem from its “angelic side” gained from the Archangel Islands.
If you want the Russian Blue cat to stay off the counter or a certain piece of furniture, simply saying “no” in a firm voice will tell them what you want, and they will be happy to oblige.
They will probably expect good behavior from you as well so don’t tease them if they are not in a playful mood! It is affectionate and well behaved, so you don’t have to worry about aggressive behavior for the most part.
Though you should consider that any cat may become aggressive or poorly behaved if they are ill or feel stressed.
If a Russian Blue is acting uncharacteristically aggressive or having accidents, etc. it may be a sign that you should check with your vet to see if there is an underlying problem
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8. Can be left alone
For animal lovers who live alone, it can be challenging to find a good and affectionate pet, who will be happy at home alone when you are at work or away for other reasons.
You do not want to cause your pet undue anxiety, but you may not be able to afford a companion pet either. The good news is that Russian Blues like to have some alone time and are usually contented to be at home alone even for long periods of time.
If you have provided sufficient food and water, a clean litter box, and stimulating toys, you do not have to feel bad about closing the door as you head out for work.
9. Playful
Though very regal, the Russian Blue cat is not above a good play. In fact, it will want to play a lot with you, especially if you are single with only one cat.
Though Russian Blues usually do well on their own if you are away at work, they are social and will look forward to playing when you come home.
They may even greet you at the door. What a sweet way to come home!
Have stimulating toys available for playtime. They will even like a good old-fashioned game of fetch!
10. One man cat
Though friendly in general to humans, Russian Blue Cats tend to connect most strongly with one human in particular.
If a couple is looking at getting one of these loveable cats, be prepared. It will likely take more closely to one of you than the other.
This fierce loyalty can be very endearing (or frustrating to the human who is not the adored one). Never fear though, they will still show affection and politeness to other people in the family.
11. Likes to stay clean
The owners want a clean house and a clean pet. Fortunately, Russian Blue cats will help you out with this. They like to keep themselves clean and will groom themselves regularly.
You should still use a medium toothed comb to help them with grooming their beautiful, dense coat occasionally.
Brushing their teeth with cat-friendly toothpaste is also recommended.
Russian Blues will also want their litter box to remain immaculate. It is very important for you to keep this area clean. If not, your cat might look for another place they deem cleaner to take care of their business.
12. Low allergen level
No animal is 100% hypoallergenic. A Russian Blue cat may not be the best animal for someone with severe allergies related to pet dander. However, if allergies are slight, this kitty might be a good choice.
As a short-haired breed, they do not shed very much. Further, vets and scientists have been able to test glycoprotein Fel d 1, a known allergen in cats. Compared to most other cat breeds, the Russian Blue has very low levels of Fel d 1 which is good news for human owners.
13. Gentle and likes to cuddle
This lovely breed is very gentle and likes to cuddle, particularly if you are the “chosen one” that the individual cat has become attached to. Be prepared for lots of face rubbing and sitting in your lap, even when it is not convenient for you.
14. Royal blood
As we have mentioned, there is a possibility that Russian Blues descended from the royal cats for the Russian tzars centuries ago. Whether this is verifiable or not, we would take the soft evidence of their regal bearing and elegant appearance to agree with this statement. Plan on hosting a king or queen in your home when you choose to buy or adopt one of these cats.
15. Naturally occurring breed
For those concerned with the ethics of reproduction for purebred animals, you can rest easy with Russian Blues.
This is a naturally occurring breed able to reproduce without human intervention. You should consider if you want to have your cat spayed or neutered to prevent potential undesirable behaviors or if you would like them to be able to breed in the future.
16. Low health risk
Because they are a naturally occurring breed, Russian Blues do not have to battle the multitude of health risks that often accompany selective breeding.
Of course, no breed is perfect. There is a slightly increased chance of urinary tract infections and bladder stones.
Obesity is something else to watch out for as these blue kitties sure do love to eat! Watch their intake and only put food out when you want them to eat, with the correct amount. Limit treats for the sake of your pet.
17. Long life span
Along with there natural makeup and low health risk comes a long life span, meaning you can enjoy the company of your Russian Blue for 15-20 years on average. This is good news if you are looking for a long-term companion.
We hope you’ve found this article interesting and that you have learned something new about this adorable and loveable breed. If you own a Russian Blue cat, leave a comment to tell us about your favorite characteristic.
It must be clear to you now that the Russian Blue cat is an amazing choice if you are looking for that perfect and inseparable companion. If you are convinced go ahead and get yourself one of these amazing pets.
Here is a video that shows what its like to live with a Russian Blue Cat
