Russian Blue Breed Facts and Information

Coat & Grooming: While the Russian Blue has a short, dense coat that doesn’t shed much, it’s still a good idea to give your cat a weekly combing to keep things in tiptop shape. “The thick undercoat that gives the coat that luxurious feel can also become matted and really needs to be combed out to be at its best,” Krieger adds.

Shedding: Russian Blues don’t shed much, but do require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition. “The double coat – consisting of straight guard hairs and then finer rippled hairs of the undercoat which provide some loft – would keep it warm in the colder climate,” says Krieger.

Life Span: On average, Russian Blues live to be between 15 and 20 years old.

Inherited health issues: As with any breed, certain health conditions can occur through genetics or simply at an increased frequency in Russian Blues. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Chronic kidney disease, Urolithiasis and Tooth resorption.

Preventive care: The best way to keep a Russian Blue in peak health is with regular trips to the veterinarian once or twice per year. Veterinarians are extensively trained in detecting subtle changes before they become bigger problems. Owners of Russian Blues should keep an eye on their cats at home for any new developments, such as an increase in their water consumption and urine volume, weight loss or lethargy, all of which could be be associated with chronic kidney disease, as well as a number of other health problems. Although many of these conditions cannot be definitively prevented, offering plenty of water or canned foods can be helpful in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Regular dental care at home is beneficial in keeping a Russian Blue’s teeth healthy. While daily toothbrushing can be challenging for some cats, it can still be accomplished for many cats. This simple process can significantly minimize the accumulation of tartar on a cat’s teeth. Dental cleanings under general anesthesia may still be needed and with the help of dental x-rays, can detect the presence of tooth resorption, which can be managed with the extraction of the affected teeth.

As with any cat, Russian Blues can become overweight if they are overfed or insufficiently exercised. Offer portion controlled meals of a good quality balanced diet to keep your Russian Blue in peak condition. Canned foods are generally a good higher protein and lower carbohydrate option for most cats, which is often beneficial in weight management. Avoid offering table foods or too many treats, as these can quickly pack on unnecessary weight.

Daily Consumption: An adult Russian Blue eats 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry food per day

While the Russian Blue can be adaptable, this breed craves habit and a schedule whenever possible. They are affectionate and loving with their family (and they aren’t likely to play favorites), but when strangers show up, you may be more likely to find them hiding under the bed. Once a Russian Blue has decided that a newcomer is not a threat, however, he will approach for a head scratch or three, says Krieger.

Russian Blues prefer to be indoor cats, and as long as they have room to play and a lap to sleep in, they are content, Krieger says. They are also a pretty quiet breed, except for when food is on its way.

Climate: While short, their robust and sturdy coat suggests they can handle colder climates.

Living space: The Russian Blue can be happy in most places, as long as he has room to stretch in the sun and to escape when he needs a moment of solitude.