Russian

Russian is a shorthair domestic cat breed. It is essentially the same as the classic Russian Blue in every aspect apart from fur color. Russian is the term used to include cats of white, black and tabby color. Genetic and anecdotal evidence dictates that Russians used to exist alongside Russian Blues in their native lands many centuries ago. However, the modern breeding of Russians in non-blue colors started in nineteen seventies in Australia when a domestic shorthair female of Siberian origin was crossed with a Russian Blue male. The resulting litter included white kittens of great beauty. These were developed with time to create the modern Russian White. Today Russian Blacks and Russians in tabby color also exist. Though not recognized universally, Russians are registered in Australia and many countries of Europe as a distinct breed.

Physical appearance of Russians mimics that of the Russian Blue. The sleek elegant body is supported by graceful legs. Coat is double layered and silky with a remarkable sheen. Head is triangular with widely set big alert ears and almond shaped emerald expressive eyes. Puffy whisker pads render a pleasant expression to the face. Russian Whites are believed to have an underlying color beneath their coat and as kittens they often have some dark colored hair on their forehead that disappear with age to give an all white fur.

Russian Blacks possess great appeal owing to their luxurious coat and regal overall appearance. They have the same finely built structure as other Russians but their shiny fur and bright green eyes add a certain majestic touch to their refined presence. Russian Tabbies are blue or black Russians with tabby markings. Tabby patterns occur on Russian Whites too, however they are hidden underneath the dense white coat.

Russians are a sweet and peaceful breed. They dislike loud noises and prefer a calm and quiet environment. They are unassuming and intelligent and bond strongly to the one person in the family who feeds and looks after them. They accept other family members too and readily play with them and their toys. Russians shed little and only require occasional combing. Sometimes they get overweight owing to their great appetite so it is important to manage the dietary intake with care. Overall these pretty cats are very adaptable and adjust well to most households, showering their humans with great affection.