The Russian blue cat is a breed of domestic short-haired cats, one of the most popular in the world. It has an elegant torso, narrow skull, wedge-shaped head, which makes it stand out among other breeds.
Shiny silvery coat, emerald green eyes, graceful gait, easy smile - all this characterizes the Russian blue cat. The first references to this breed date back to the VIII century, when these cats were seen in the northern regions of Russia, Finland and Norway. About the true origin of these cats not much is known, as legends say, these animals lived in the wild and were hunted because of its soft and beautiful fur. This may well explain their natural cautiousness and intelligence.
History shows that royalty were admirers of the Russian Blue, the owners of this breed were Catherine II, Nicholas I and Nicholas II, Queen Victoria, it was believed that such cats can protect against evil spirits.
British breeders contributed greatly to the development and improvement of the breed. At the end of the nineteenth century these cats were shown at the London exhibition for the first time, but then they were in the class of blue short-haired cats. Only in 1912 the Russian blue cats were officially separated into a separate breed, which is called a foreign blue cat. Unlike the massive British, Russian pussycats had a more graceful and elegant build, and their fur was softer and denser. In 1939, the modern name of the species was introduced - Russian Blue.
The Second World War, unfortunately, led to the almost complete disappearance of the breed, because of the scarcity of individuals of this species, breeders had to resort to crossbreeding with Siamese cats, which affected the appearance of animals. The original skeletal features were deformed, so later breeders had to work hard to bring back the historical features of the breed. The Russian Blue has experienced a real rebirth, and today its representatives have the same appearance as their ancestors.
The modern standards clearly define the appearance of the Russian Blue. The color of these cats gray-blue with a silvery sheen, it must be uniform and clean without any streaks and bands, the coat itself is short with soft texture and neat undercoat.
The second striking feature is the eyes, they are very expressive, have an oval or almond shape, a rich green color, widely set.
The body is elegant and slender, the body is elongated, the legs are slender with well-developed muscles, the feet are small and rounded, the neck is straight and long. The breed is characterized by the special structure of the skull: it is flattened from above and has a wedge-shaped form. Clearly marked vibrissae create the famous “Russian smile” of these cats. The ears are pointed, fairly large, and widely spaced. The nose has a straight shape and gray-blue color. The tail is long, straight, broad enough at the base, gradually tapering to the tip.
Representatives of this breed are ideal for keeping in the house, they are able to become a true friend and companion for the owner. These cats express their loyalty with affectionate purring, practically do not release claws, and respond well to intonation and gestures. But if they do not like something, they will say it in their cat language. To other animals Russian blue treats very friendly, easily share their territory with them, the only exception may be dogs.
Aristocratic features and excellent education of this cat passed from its ancestors who lived in the royal courts, with strangers, it is restrained and shy. Russian blue cats are characterized by super cleanliness, can spend hours tidying up their luxurious coat, but will not eat or drink from a dirty bowl and demanding cleanliness of their litter box.
These cats do not forget about their hunting instincts, their “prey” are insects, toys and their own fellows, they keep active and playfulness till their old age. At the same time, they will not cause a mess at home and do not like loud noises. Despite its attachment to humans, the Russian blue is sure to find entertainment and in solitude, so it is suitable for people who spend a lot of time at work.
To the disadvantages of the character can be attributed only freedom-loving and natural independence of this breed, the animal will not tolerate if he will be treated roughly or squeeze him, because these aristocrats do not tolerate violence.
Care for the Russian Blue is quite simple, it is necessary to keep the litter box and bowls clean, regularly comb the hair so that it does not clog the stomach of the animal. Periodically, you need to wash the cat, using dry shampoo. For feeding, it is better to use food specially designed for this breed, the optimal ratio of dry and soft food is 3:1. If cared for properly, these cats are healthy, physically strong, not prone to obesity and often able to live to a very advanced age.
Choosing a cat of this breed for keeping in a house, you will appreciate its beauty and peaceful disposition, it will become a real guardian of the family home, because according to the belief Russian blue cat brings happiness and prosperity.