Russian Blue cat
The Russian Blue cat is a cat breed distinguished by its uniquely coloured shorthair coat. The coat of a Russian Blue cat consists of two layers, the soft undercoat and a special upper coat. The upper coat is blue of colour with silver tips, which give it its unique sheen and shimmer. The coat is dense and it is said Russian Blues were once bred in Russia for the use of their special coats which resembles the coat of a seal.
Russian Blues are said to have originated from the Archangel Isles of Russia, or known as Arkhangelsk in Russian. According to legend, these cats were companions to Czars, and later brought to England by sailors. The Russian Blue cat breed is a naturally occurring breed and has not intentionally been created by cat breeders. About 50 years ago, the Russian Blue was out crossed with a blue Siamese to strengthen the gene. Due to this out crossing, some Russian Blue litters will contain pointed coat kittens, which are not acceptable standard for cat shows. The Russian Blue's coat should be a solid blue colour, with no white markings or dark tail markings. If this colouring occurs, the cat is still considered a true Russian Blue, but not cat show standard.
The eyes of a true Russian Blue should be a dark bottle green. Its mouth has been described as having a smiling expression. It should have a broad head with wide-set ears and a lean, muscular physique. Other recognized cat breeds that were created by using Russian Blues are the Nebelung cat and the Havana Brown. Russian white and black cats have also been created, but are not recognized by all organizations.
The personality of a Russian Blue cat is a little shy, especially towards strangers. They do become very loyal towards their owners and will show a very playful side to them. These cats are very sensitive to their owner's or other family members' moods and can try to cheer you up by entertaining you when it senses you are feeling a little down. Russian Blues are highly intelligent cats and also independent and not in need of constant human companionship. They will enjoy a regular brushing (about once a week is recommended) and their nails should be clipped.