Russian Blue cats are not the rarest cat breed, but they are not the most common either. They can be a unique choice for cat enthusiasts.
Caring for a Russian Blue Cat
Not particularly cuddly or clingy, Russian Blue cats are reserved, especially when meeting new people. But they are sweet and form strong bonds with their family after receiving the right socialization.
These astute observers require opportunities to climb and perch, and they enjoy routines, but that doesn’t mean they have to be with you constantly. As the only cat in the house, they actually thrive most of the time, even if you leave them alone during the day. Make sure your Russian Blue has a place for quiet if your home is noisy at times.
Russian Blue Health Issues
According to Grady, Russian Blue cats are a naturally occurring breed that typically lives 15 to 20 years and is in generally good health. But just like with any cat, there are a few possible health risks that pet owners need to be aware of.
Excess weight is the No. Bruce Kornreich, DVM, PhD, director of the Cornell Feline Health Center, lists one health problem that cats face. Russian Blues frequently have a voracious appetite, so it’s crucial to feed them in moderation and monitor their body composition. Cat obesity raises the risk of diabetes, heart disease, lung conditions, and some types of cancer, among other conditions.
Additionally, Kornreich mentions cats’ general oral health as a possible source of problems. “It’s imperative that pet parents practice extreme diligence when it comes to dental care for all cats,” he states. And routinely brushing the cat’s teeth would be the best course of action. Because human toothpaste is poisonous to cats, always use toothpaste designed for cats. It is also advised that your veterinarian perform routine dental cleanings in order to help prevent periodontitis and dental disease.
The Russian Blue can also be affected by other conditions like polycystic kidney disease and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA); any respectable breeder should check their cats for these and other conditions. Although there isn’t a formal connection between the Russian Blue and these heritable illnesses, Kornreich advises paying attention to what your breeder has observed and prioritizing regular veterinary care.
How To Feed a Russian Blue
This breed doesn’t have specific feeding requirements. However, feed adult Russian Blues twice a day and kittens three to four measured meals a day in general. For the majority of cats, free-choice feeding is not advised because it can lead to obesity.
Free-feeding cats can result in overeating, so this is especially crucial for cats like Russian Blues who tend to gain weight. To keep your cat interested, you might also think about using lick mats or food puzzles, but if you do, make sure they are always getting their entire meal.
FAQ
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