Cat breed
Russian Blue
Russian Blue: graceful, playful and quiet. Short, dense, silver-tipped blue coat.
Updated October 15, 2026 · 7 sources · see sources
| Weight | 7–12 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | About 15–20+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair (dense double coat) [2] |
| Look | Short, dense, silver-tipped blue coat [2] |
| Personality | Graceful, playful and quiet [2] |
| CFA popularity (2025) | No. 10 pedigreed breed [3] |
Activity and exercise
CFA says few breeds match their intelligence and mechanical aptitude; puzzle toys help. [2]
Grooming
CFA says they need very little grooming: combing two or three times a month, plus trimming claws and keeping eyes and ears clean. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Obesity, Dental disease. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [4] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [5] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [6] |
| Cat dental cleaning (owner bills) | $350–$1,450 | [7] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- Believed to come from the Archangel Isles in northern Russia, they competed at early English cat shows as “Archangel Cats.” [2]
- PetMD says their eyes change from golden in youth to brilliant green in adulthood. [1]
- The coat comes in just one color: blue. [2]
- CFA warns owners shouldn't be surprised to find an unexpectedly open door, drawer or jar. [2]
Good fit for
- ✅ Quieter homes (CFA says best suited, though many adapt to busier ones)
- ✅ Owners who want minimal grooming
Common questions
How long do Russian Blue cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of about 15–20 years.
How big does a Russian Blue get?
PetMD lists a weight of 7–12 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources
- PetMD – Russian Blue cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Russian Blue breed profile
- CFA – Most Popular Breeds for 2025
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Dental Cleaning Cost (owner bills, 2026)