Russian blue cat breeder
We are pleased to share our love of Cats with you from, British Columbia, Canada
Updated on January 2012
Russian Blue Cats
Proud member of The International Cat Association, And The Cat Fanciers Association.
Little is
known about the origin of the Russian Blue, however, stories and
legends abound. Many believe the Russian Blue is a natural breed
originating from the Archangel Isles in northern Russia . Legend has
these beautiful animals trapped for their plush double coats which are
sometimes compared to the coat of a beaver or seal. Originally known as
the Archangel Cat or Foreign Blue, it is believed that they were
brought by sailors from the Archangel Isles to England and Northern
Europe in the 1860s. Rumor also has the Russian Blue as a descendant of
the Royal Cat of the Russian Czars and as a favored pet of Queen
Victoria .
First shown in 1875 at the Crystal Palace in England as the Archangel
Cat, the original Russian Blue competed in a class for all blue cats.
It was not until 1912 that the Russian Blue was given a class of its
own. From its early origins until after World War II, English and
Scandinavian breeders worked to develop the foundation bloodlines for
the contemporary Russian Blue. Although Russians were imported to the
United States as early as 1900, there is little recorded work with the
breed in America until after World War II. American breeders combined
the English bloodlines with their plush, silvery coats and Scandinavian
bloodlines with their emerald green eyes and flat profiles to produce
the Russian Blue we know today. In the 1960s the Russian Blue began to
gain popularity and has become a favorite both at cat shows and at home.
The Russian Blue is a gentle, affectionate cat easily distinguished
from other breeds. One of the most outstanding features of the Russian
Blue is a short, dense coat of an even, bright blue color with each
hair dipped in silver. This silver tipping gives the Russian a silvery
sheen and lustrous appearance that can best be appreciated in natural
light. Russian Blues come in only one color, blue, and one coat length,
short. The density of the coat causes it to stand out from the body and
allows patterns to be traced in the coat which remain until you smooth
them away. In lovely contrast to the blue coat, the Russian Blue has
large, rounded, wide-set eyes that are a vivid green. The head is
sometimes described as cobra-like which aptly describes the broad,
medium wedge and flat profiles. The large, pointed ears are wide at the
base and set rakishly toward the side of the head. The body of the
Russian Blue is fine-boned, long, and firmly muscled. The clean lines
and graceful carriage of the Russian Blue give it a regal appearance
all its own.
Those attracted by the physical beauty of the Russian Blue find the
disposition of these unassuming cats equally appealing. Russian Blues
are quiet, clean cats who are playful and loving companions. Despite
their shy nature, Russians are devoted and quite affectionate towards
their loved ones. They are very intelligent and have been reported to
open doors and teach their owners to fetch. Sensitive to the mood of
the house. They get along well with children and other pets.
A Russian Blue is a good choice for the modern home because their
undemanding nature fits perfectly into today's busy schedules. They
will entertain themselves if left alone for the day and be a contented
companion upon your return. The Russian requires a minimum of grooming
with periodic nail clipping and a coat that can be kept looking good by
frequent petting and an occasional combing. Many Russians seem to enjoy
being combed or brushed as it allows them additional time with their
owners.
While the Russian Blue may at first glance look like any other grey
cat, a more careful look will show them to have a special appearance
that is all their own. They have been said to look as if they are
smiling and that the reason for that smile is known only to them
selves. But beyond appearances, the real pleasure of the Russian Blue
is its unique personality which sets it apart from other cats and makes
it an interesting, entertaining and affectionate companion to its
owners and friends.
Christine Atsma
Abbotsford BC Canada
Phone (604) 826-1568 Cell 604-768-7074
atsma@live.com
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Design by Christine Atsma.