WHAT IS A RUSSIAN BLUE?
The Russian Blue is a short haired cat of foreign type, but it is not as extreme in "type" as the Siamese and other oriental's. The body is long and graceful with medium strong bone. Legs are long with small oval paws and the tail is fairly long and tapering. The short, wedge-shaped head is topped by large pointed ears, set vertically to the head. The Russian Blue has prominent whisker pads and vivid green almond shaped eyes. The coat of the Russian Blue is quite different from that of any other breed, being short, thick but fine and standing up soft and silky with a silvery sheen. A good Russian Blue should have an elegant appearance with an aristocratic expression.
WHAT IS ITS HISTORY?
The history of the Russian Blue is couched in rumor and legend. The Blue was originally known as the Archangel Cat, as it is believed they were brought by sailors from the Archangel Isles to England in the 1860s.
WHAT KIND OF PERSONALITY DOES IT HAVE?
Naturally, this will vary from cat to cat, but the Russian Blue is an intelligent cat which is renowned for its gentleness. It will often talk to its owner in a quiet voice, although a queen in season can make as much noise as any other cat. The Russian Blue is affectionate but not demanding. Many love to be picked up and cuddled but some are not so keen. Nevertheless, they are still likely to be loving and devoted companions to their owners. This has made the breed particularly popular with elderly people. However, it is also very good with children and as a general rule will tolerate the clumsy handling of a child. The cat will wriggle, rather than claw, its way out of a tight grip. It is rare for a Russian Blue to bite or scratch.