Generals & Gentleness

The Russian Blue is one of the oldest known natural breeds in today's cat fancy.  The breed dates back to the late 1800s in England.  Whether the breed originated in Russia is unclear, but its fanciful history is woven around many legends.  Legends depict the Russian Blues clinging to the shoulders of the Cossacks as they rode into war, and being cherished pets in the courts of the Russian Tsar and Queen Victoria of England.  However, the most plausible story is probably that the cats, known as Archangel cats, came to England in the 1869s on sailing ships from the northern Russian Port of Archangelsk.

Their thick double coats support the possibility that Russian Blues came from northern climes and there is documentation of cats imported to England from Archangelsk in the late 1800s.

The breed has been known as the Spanish Blue and, in England, the Foreign Blue, differentiating it from the Chartreux and Korat.  In North America in the early 1900s, they were called Maltese, which denotes a short haired domestic cat with a silky, bluish-gray coat.  Not every gray cat is a Russian Blue; its vivid green eyes, plush coat and lithe body distinguish it from other blue cats.

In England during World War II, much of the breed was decimated, but they were saved by Siamese outcrosses, which created unwanted body type and caused them to lose the plush coat.  Consistent type was achieved in the 1950s, but few were seen at shows until the 1960s.  Variations in type still exist among cats bred in England, Europe and America.  In fact, lines imported from England and Scandinavia were combined to produce the Russian Blue we know in the United States.  Many Breeders believe the light, plush coat is form the British lines and the vivid-green eye color from the Scandinavian lines.

Russian Blues are elegant, loyal and loving cats that make ideal family pets.  "They're sophisticated but not aloof," Forsythe said.  "The more you talk to them, the smarter they get.  I see intelligence behind their eyes.

A stunning feature is the contrast of the Russian Blue's green eyes against its blue coat; it is unlike any other in the cat fancy.  Its double-coat of short hair stands off from the body, with the appearance of silver tipping each hair.  It gives the cat a sheen and luxurious, soft look, and the coat feels like silk.

Why it's called "blue" and not "gray" can be attributed to genetic naming convention in the animal world.  In many other animals, e.g. dogs and horses, gray is referred to as blue.

In the 1970s and early 80s, the breed "didn't like being around other cats," Wilson said.  "They were always wonderful at home, but didn't like being at cat shows."

Selective breeding modified the breed's shy behavior.  Gingivitis was also a health concern, but it has been bred out.

The breed has no specific health issues, but it is always wise to discuss with a breeder any health and inherited diseases known to their particular lines.

The only genetic concern is what is called the White Russian, a throwback tot he early years of Siamese out crossings.  In those lines, a Russian may be born with Siamese markings, blue eyes, and the double coat - a beautiful cat show able only in the Household Pet class.

Also, Russian Blues like to eat, and altered cats tend to gain weight, so it's best to watch their food intake and see that they get exercise.

The best way to find an ethical breeder is by recommendation from someone who owns a Russian Blue or by going to cat shows and meeting breeders and exhibitors first-hand.  you may also contact the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) or The International Cat Association (TICA) for referrals.  If possible, visit the cattery to observe the conditions of both the cats and the facilities.

"They are absolutely wonderful companions," Forsythe said.  "I've had the honor of meeting a lot of new cats in my life, and the Russian Blues have by far been the most enjoyable."