03/05/2023
Russian Blue Cats: get to know them more!đââŹ
Because these cats shed lightly and have lower levels of known feline allergens, some pet owners consider them "hypoallergenic."
"These cats produce very low levels of glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is the protein in cats that creates allergies in people," says Natalie L. Marks, DVM, CVJ, veterinarian at Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago.
So while there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat, some breeds, including the Russian blue, might be a better fit for some people with allergies. Before bringing home a Russian blue kitten, spend time with the breed to see how your allergies react.
One of the most interesting aspects of a Russian blue's appearance is her eyes, which change in hue from yellow to green over time. Like all kittens, Russian blue kittens are born with blue eyes. The blue fades to a light yellow or golden, then turns to yellow with a green ring around four months old and, finally, turns fully bright green in adulthood.
These cats typically weigh 7â12 pounds and stand around 10 inches high.
The History and Ancestry of Russian Blue Cats
The origins of the Russian Blue are mysterious, but the most popular theories place the breedâs birthplace in Northern Russiaâs Archangel Islands. Some cat historians hold that the breed has royal blood, descending from the beloved pets of czars. Others suggest that the breedâs dense, beautiful coat wouldâve made it a prized target of hunters out in the wild. That thick coat certainly supports the idea that the breed originated in a cold climate like Russiaâs.
Though the breed shares some qualities with the Korat, the Chartreux, and the British Blue (also called the British Shorthair), experts do not believe that the breeds are related. All four breeds are old enough, however, that they may potentially share an ancient common ancestor.
What we now call the Russian Blue first met British cat lovers as the Archangel Cat. As a competitor in the nationâs very first cat show, the breed made an entrance befitting its regal air. The breed was rarely victorious in competitions against more popular short-haired blue cats like the British Blue. In 1912, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) officially recognized the breed and afforded it a classification all its own. Russian Blues are one of many breeds that nearly went extinct during World War II. Their popularity grew among American breeders and feline enthusiasts throughout the second half of the 20th century.
add an extra layer of security and keep cats from getting stuck in small spaces or ingesting something they shouldnât.
These cats are susceptible to obesity too if theyâre regularly permitted to overeat. Any owner can attest to the fact that Russian Blues really love to eat and wonât hesitate to ask for seconds. Some will even literally âaskâ by vocally requesting meals. Work with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate diet and familiarize your pet with the concept of portion control. High-quality food is essential for keeping any cat happy and healthy and discouraging them from developing chronic conditions as they age.
Where grooming needs are concerned, Russian Blues are a decidedly low-maintenance breed. Weekly brushing with a high-quality comb is typically sufficient to remove dead hairs and keep these catsâ coats looking as lustrous as possible. Several weekly brushing sessions may prove necessary during the spring shedding season to keep cats comfortable and looking their best.
Russian Blues are generally tolerant of children and other pets. So long as theyâre treated with respect, they can even get along with toddlers and dogs. Take care to introduce kittens to new housemates carefully and prepare to intervene if conflict arises. While the breed is generally calm and friendly, no two pets have the exact same temperament.
