Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
September 11, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
A quiet encyclopedia with a personal desk
Kept by Bryan McAllister — short guides, clear facts, and the Canadian angle when it matters.
Field Notes • Cat Breed

Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a pedigreed domestic cat breed known for its short, dense blue-grey coat with a silvery sheen and vivid green eyes.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

The Russian Blue is a pedigreed domestic cat breed known for its short, dense blue-grey coat with a silvery sheen and vivid green eyes. It is generally described as a medium-sized, fine-boned but muscular cat with a reserved temperament and strong attachment to familiar people.

What it is

The Russian Blue is a naturally occurring breed, not a recent designer creation. Its coat is a distinctive blue with silver tipping, and its eyes are typically emerald green or yellow-green. The breed is accepted with championship status by major cat registries.

Key details

Russian Blues are medium-sized, slender, and muscular, with a plush double coat and a wedge-shaped head. They are often called the Archangel Cat or Archangel Blue, linked to the Arkhangelsk region of northern Russia. The breed’s exact origin is uncertain but tied to 19th-century Britain.

Why it matters

For Canadian cat breeders and pet owners, the Russian Blue is a recognized breed of interest, included in breed standards and resources used by cat enthusiasts across Canada. Its calm, loyal temperament makes it a popular choice for families.

In short

  • Short-haired blue-grey coat with silver sheen and green eyes.
  • Medium-sized, fine-boned, and muscular body.
  • Gentle, reserved temperament; loyal to family.
  • Recognized by major registries; linked to northern Russia.
Canadian angle

Russian Blues are a recognized cat breed of interest to Canadian cat breeders, registries, and pet owners, and they are included in the breed standards and information resources used by cat enthusiasts in Canada.

Quick questions

What is a Russian Blue cat?
A Russian Blue is a pedigreed domestic cat breed known for its blue-grey coat, green eyes, and calm temperament.
Where did the Russian Blue originate?
Its exact origin is uncertain, but it is commonly associated with northern Russia, especially the Arkhangelsk region.
Is the Russian Blue a recognized breed?
Yes. It is accepted by major international cat registries and holds championship status.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_Blue
    Supports: Breed description, coat colour, eye colour, and general recognition.
  2. The International Cat Association — https://tica.org/breed/russian-blue/
    Supports: Breed status, coat length, and basic breed characteristics.
  3. Los Angeles Times — https://www.latimes.com/companion-animals/cats/breeds/story/russian-blue-cat-breed-guide
    Supports: Origin tradition, early exhibition history, and Archangel Cat name.
  4. Petful — https://www.petful.com/cat-breeds/russian-blue-cat-profile/
    Supports: Body type, temperament, and origin summary.
  5. Purina — https://www.purina.com/cats/cat-breeds/russian-blue
    Supports: Weight range, coat description, and breed history.
  6. WebMD — https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/what-to-know-about-russian-blue-cat
    Supports: Hallmark traits, body type, and origin tradition.