The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Classic Body Type

Russian Blue

Plush blue double coat with a sleek, elegant body line

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
Low
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Double
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a calm-leaning, observant cat with a plush blue coat

Not ideal

  • Want a very social "party cat" that greets everyone immediately

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often calm-leaning and observant—moderate energy with an “assess first” style in many homes.

Handling & social style

Many prefer respectful, low-pressure affection; tends to warm up through familiarity rather than constant handling.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Moderate-specialty care mainly because of the plush double coat—otherwise fairly straightforward.

Environment & space

Typical indoor homes work; many prefer a predictable layout and a couple favored perches.

Daily routine

Brush during heavier shedding periods to manage undercoat; keep play steady rather than chaotic.

Health sensitivities

Generally not defined by one universal issue—prioritize reputable lines and clear family-history transparency.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Russia

Background

Linked with northern Russia and later refined through Western breeding programs. The signature is the plush blue double coat on a clean, elegant frame, often paired with a quietly devoted temperament.