The Russian Blue, a graceful feline with its distinctive coat and emerald eyes.
The Mysterious Elegance of the Russian Blue
The Russian Blue is a natural cat breed of remarkable beauty and elegance, originating from the northern regions of Russia, notably Arkhangelsk. It is immediately recognizable by its double, short, and dense coat, of a uniform blue-grey with silver tips, and its large green eyes. Its silhouette is slender and muscular, giving it an aristocratic appearance.
This feline is valued for its calm, gentle, and affectionate temperament. Very discreet, it is loyal to its family and enjoys quiet interactions, making it an excellent companion for those seeking a serene yet devoted presence.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 15, 2025.
My personal tip : The Russian Blue's short, dense coat is relatively easy to maintain; brushing once or twice a week is enough to remove loose hairs and maintain its silvery sheen. This is an intelligent cat that appreciates calm games and gentle interactions. It needs a stable and predictable environment. It can be shy with strangers but is very loyal and affectionate towards its family. Make sure to provide it with a safe space where it can retreat and feel secure.
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Identifying the Russian Blue: Distinctive Characteristics
The double coat and emerald eyes of the Russian Blue are emblematic traits.
The Russian Blue is a medium-sized cat, elegant and athletic. Its physical characteristics are very distinctive.
Size: Medium-sized cat, with a muscular and slender body.
Coat: Short, dense, and double (hence its unique feel), of uniform blue-grey with silver tips. The undercoat is as long as the guard hairs, giving the coat a plush appearance.
Head: Wedge-shaped (triangular), with a straight profile and a strong chin.
Eyes: Large, almond-shaped, of a vivid and intense green. Kittens are born with yellow eyes that turn green with age.
Ears: Large, broad at the base, slightly pointed, well-spaced.
Tail: Medium-long, tapering to the tip.
Dimensions and Key Information (Russian Blue)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
25 – 30 cm
20 – 25 cm
20 – 30 cm
Weight
3 – 5 kg
2.5 – 4 kg
2.5 – 5 kg
Life Expectancy
15 – 20 years
15 – 20 years
15 – 20 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-6
These figures indicate that the Russian Blue is a medium-sized cat, often long-lived, and its growth is completed around 1 year of age.
Behavior: Calm, Discreet, and Affectionate
The Russian Blue is a cat breed of exceptional elegance and discretion, recognizable by its double, short, and dense blue-grey coat with silvery tips, as well as its piercing green eyes. It is a cat with a gentle, calm, and very intelligent temperament, forming deep bonds with its family but remaining reserved towards strangers. It is the embodiment of grace and tranquility.
Russian Blues are affectionate companions who appreciate quiet moments and discreet cuddles. They are not very vocal, preferring to express themselves with soft trills rather than insistent meows. Their intelligence allows them to learn quickly and adapt to apartment living, provided they have opportunities for play and stimulation. Their gentle nature and patience make them excellent pets for respectful families. Their blue-grey coat and serene demeanor may bring to mind the Chartreux or the Korat, although the Russian Blue is generally more slender.
Very playful in their own time, Russian Blues enjoy toys that stimulate their intelligence and interactive play sessions with their owners. Their grooming is relatively easy thanks to their non-matting coat. If you are drawn to an elegant, calm, and loyal cat, the Russian Blue is a perfect choice. For a similar temperament but a more robust build, the British Shorthair is a charming option. If you appreciate cats with unique physical traits, the Scottish Fold offers a distinct originality, while the Oriental provides a sleek silhouette and great communicativeness, but with a more outgoing character.
Origin and History
The history of the Russian Blue is ancient and mysterious, with legends linking it to the cats of the Russian Tsars. It originated from the ports of Arkhangelsk in Russia and is believed to have been brought to Europe and North America by sailors in the 19th century. Its popularity grew in England and Scandinavia.
After World War II, the breed was on the verge of extinction, and crosses with the British Shorthair and Siamese were made to save it, which temporarily altered its appearance. However, breeders have strived to restore the original type. The Russian Blue is recognized by most feline associations and continues to be admired for its beauty and unique temperament.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Russian Blue
What is unique about the Russian Blue's coat?
The Russian Blue has a double, short, and dense coat, of a uniform blue-grey with silver tips. The undercoat is as long as the guard hairs, giving it a plush texture.
What is the temperament of the Russian Blue?
It is a calm, gentle, affectionate, and reserved cat. It is loyal to its family but can be shy with strangers. It loves routine and a tranquil environment.
Is the Russian Blue hypoallergenic?
While no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, many people allergic to cats tolerate the Russian Blue better because it produces less Fel d 1, the protein responsible for allergies, and its double coat traps allergens more effectively.
How long can a Russian Blue live?
The average life expectancy of a Russian Blue is generally long, ranging from 15 to 20 years, with proper care and a balanced diet.
Is the Russian Blue vocal?
No, the Russian Blue is known for being a very discreet cat and rarely uses its voice, and when it does, it is usually a soft and melodious meow.
