Russian Blue Cat Breed Guide

Elegant, intelligent, and quietly affectionate—the Russian Blue is one of the most refined cat breeds around. With their striking emerald green eyes and silvery-blue coat, they’re not just beautiful; they’re also wonderfully loyal companions. For New Zealand cat lovers seeking a peaceful and loyal feline, the Russian Blue may be the perfect fit.

This guide covers everything you need to know about owning a Russian Blue in NZ, from their personality and care to flea and worm treatments and daily routines.

Russian Blue Breed Origins & Background

Russian Blues are believed to have originated in the port city of Arkhangelsk in northern Russia. They were brought to England and Europe in the 1860s and have since gained international acclaim for their elegance and temperament.

Although rare in New Zealand, Russian Blues are steadily growing in popularity thanks to their hypoallergenic potential and reserved, intelligent nature.

Appearance & Distinct Features

Coat: Dense, short, and plush with a silvery-blue sheen

Eyes: Bright green and almond-shaped

Build: Medium-sized with a lean, muscular frame

Facial Features: Fine-boned with high cheekbones and a gentle expression

Their double coat feels like velvet and doesn’t shed much, making them relatively low maintenance.

Personality & Temperament

The Russian Blue is often described as gentle, reserved, and very intelligent. They’re ideal for quieter households:

  • Loyal and form deep bonds with their chosen people
  • Observant and cautious around strangers
  • Enjoy routines and dislike chaotic environments
  • Playful but not overly demanding

They are known to follow their owners silently from room to room and enjoy being near—but not always on—you.

Ideal Living Environment

Russian Blues do best in calm, predictable environments:

  • Ideal for apartments or quiet homes
  • Thrive in consistent routines and peaceful spaces
  • Prefer soft beds, sunlit nooks, and elevated perches
  • Indoor living is highly recommended to preserve their coat and reduce stress

They enjoy companionship but also value their alone time. Another quiet cat can be a good companion.

Feeding & Nutrition

Russian Blues have a natural tendency to gain weight due to their low activity levels and strong appetites:

Kittens: Royal Canin Kitten or Pro Plan Kitten Chicken

Adults: Opt for weight management formulas like Royal Canin Indoor Weight Care or Feline Natural Chicken & Lamb

Treats: Use sparingly—favour freeze-dried options with high protein

Feed set meals twice a day and avoid free-feeding.

Grooming & Coat Care

Their coat is self-maintaining but benefits from occasional grooming:

  • Weekly brushing helps reduce shedding and maintain coat quality
  • Monthly nail trims
  • Weekly ear checks
  • Dental health support with chews or brushing

No bathing required unless recommended by a vet.

Health Considerations

Russian Blues are a generally healthy and long-lived breed, often reaching 15–20 years. However, owners should watch for:

  • Obesity: Maintain a lean body through portion control and light play
  • Bladder issues: Encourage hydration and provide wet food options
  • Dental concerns: Regular dental checks

Choose reputable breeders who health test and avoid inbreeding.

Flea & Worm

As with all cats, routine parasite protection is essential:

Fleas: - Monthly flea treatment is ideal - Recommended options: Bravecto Plus, Nexgard Spectra for Cats, or Revolution Plus

Worms: - Treat at least every 3 months - Use Endogard, or Profender Spot-On

Shop PetSupply.co.nz for flea and worm treatments tailored to your cat’s size.

Training & Enrichment

Russian Blues are highly intelligent and respond well to gentle training:

Enjoy interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and laser pointers

Can be taught tricks and even clicker trained

Benefit from vertical spaces like cat towers

Prefer quiet, mentally stimulating activities over loud play

Keep toys on rotation to keep them engaged.

Socialisation & Interaction

While affectionate with their family, Russian Blues can be shy or aloof with strangers:

  • Often bond closely with one or two people
  • May hide from guests but warm up over time
  • Don’t enjoy busy, noisy environments
  • Appreciate gentle affection and calm energy

They do well in adult-only homes or with respectful children.

Is a Russian Blue Cat Right for You?

✅ Quiet, loyal, and intelligent
✅ Hypoallergenic-friendly with low shedding
✅ Perfect for calm homes or apartments
❌ Not ideal for loud or chaotic households

Final Thoughts

The Russian Blue is a graceful, loyal, and independent cat that thrives in peaceful New Zealand homes. With the right food, enrichment, and gentle attention, they reward their owners with years of quiet companionship and calm affection.

Support your Russian Blue’s health and happiness with quality products from PetSupply.co.nz.