Cat breed · Shorthair
Russian Blue
A quiet, elegant cat that is devoted to its own household and shy with visitors.
Medium15–20 yearsNorthern RussiaCan suit apartments
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Shorthair
- Origin
- Northern Russia
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg (7–13 lb)
- Height
- 23–25 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, plush double coat
- Temperament
- ReservedGentleLoyalRoutine-loving
History
Thought to come from the port of Arkhangelsk and carried to Britain by sailors in the 1860s.
Appearance
Even blue-grey coat with silver tipping and vivid green eyes.
Exercise and activity
Daily play with predictable routines.
Care and grooming
Weekly brushing; keep feeding, litter and play routines consistent to reduce stress.
Health considerations
- Obesity
- Bladder stones
- Dental disease
- Diabetes with weight gain
- Generally robust
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Russian Blue
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Daily play with predictable routines. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Obesity, Bladder stones, Dental disease, Diabetes with weight gain), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice