The Russian Blue is quite an old feline breed that descends from cats native to the current, and former, country of Russia. This is a lean, medium-sized cat with a short, dense, plush double-coat that is described as being seal-like in texture. The color should be a solid bluish-gray, with a distinctly silvery sheen that comes from the dilute expression of the black gene. The silver-to-transparent hair tips on darker slate-blue hairs are what give the coat of the Russian Blue such a shimmering appearance, which is especially apparent when observed in natural light. There should be no trace of white or tabby markings on the ideal Russian Blue. Top-quality coat color and texture are the single most important characteristics of the Russian Blue in show competition.

Russian Blues normally make quiet, gentle and affectionate companions. They are strikingly handsome and unique among domestic cats in their combination of color, coat and conformation. These are docile, sensitive, kind animals that are particularly in-tune with their owners’ emotions. They develop strong bonds with their loved ones and are extremely affectionate and loyal. The Russian Blue is also known for getting along quite well with other pets and with children that live in their immediate household. They are typically tidy and clean. Russian Blues can be shy around strangers, unless they are brought up in a very well-socialized living environment. They are not known to be aggressive or especially reclusive. They do not like to be left alone for prolonged periods of time and prefer the company of either a person or another companion pet at all times. The Russian Blue makes an exceptionally devoted companion.