History

• The exact origin of the Russian Blue cat is undocumented, but popular belief points to the Archangel Isles in northern Russia. Legends tell of the cat's royal lineage that dates back to the times of Russian Czars when they lived as spoiled pets in palaces. The first Russian Blues entered England and Northern Europe in merchant ships in the 1860s and were recognized as a separate breed in 1912. They reached North America in the 1890s but only gained popularity there in the 1960s after World War II.
  
  

Appearance

• The most distinctive feature of the Russian Blue is its short, bright blue coat with a silver sheen. The body is fine-boned, long and muscular. The eyes are a striking emerald green that may intensify with the cat's age. The ears are large, erect and set toward the side of the medium wedge-shaped head. The Russian Blue often seems to have a smiling expression.
  
  

Behavior

• Russian Blues are aloof around strangers and visitors to the house, but they often develop a special bond with members of the household. You need patience to establish a relationship with these reserved cats, but they will repay such an effort with devotion and affection. They are playful and very intelligent, often known to turn door knobs and open doors. They can get along with children and other pets, but their need for quiet does not suit them to large households.
  
  

Caretaking

• Russian Blues generally have few health problems and often have life spans of 18 to 20 years. Some might suffer from a hereditary eyelid condition known as entropion and need to go through surgery. Russian Blues shed more hair in spring and fall when temperature changes, so a little grooming may be in order at these times.
  
  

Getting a Russian Blue

• Reputable breeders will often let you bring home a Russian Blue kitten as young as 12 weeks old. You may also choose to get adult cats that have retired from the cat showbiz or breeding. Not many breeders work with Russian Blues, so you might need to spend some time researching and waiting for a cat or kitten to become available. The Russian Blue Fanciers website has a list of breeders you can try to contact.