One of the first Russian blue cats appearing in Western Europe was “the Archangel Cat” on display at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in 1875, but there is a distinct possibility that other Russian blues reached the shores of Scandinavia, Britain and even Alaska under their own power. Native to the Archangel Islands off the coast of Northern Russia, Russian blue cats are distinguished by a double-thick coat of insulating fur designed to get them through frigid winters. Their handsome, silver-to-pewter-toned, blue-gray coats and intensely green eyes give blues a real presence in any setting.
Although surrounded by rumors of being raised by royalty (a suggestion so many breeds of cat seem to do little to discourage!), Russian blues are historically working cats, the ideal well-insulated shipmate to control rodent populations on trading, fishing, and exploring vessels. Russian blues visited foreign countries as part of their occupation, and for some, it was an easy step from ship to shore.
One additional aftermath of the Second World War was the near-disappearance of the Russian blue breeding stock in Russia. Crossbreeding with Siamese and other varieties meant some changes in the body and facial shape for blues. Much of those changes have been bred back out, although purebreds may still display a range of leg length, chest-depth, and facial clarity unusual to a single breed.
Whatever physical changes have occurred, Russian blues have retained a constant temperament: quiet, attentive, and affectionate. Some blues are moderately vocal, while others are silent for long periods. At home on dry land, Russian blues have a reputation for loyalty and aversion to strangers. They run a tight ship in terms of cleanliness and respond well to routines.
Tom of the cartoon “Tom & Jerry” fame has often been identified as a Russian blue based on the coat- and eye color. Whether the obstreperous Tom fits the quiet profile of the breed is open to question, but his intense interest in rodents suggests that he may be at least a partial blue blood.
Pewter – The lovely silvery-blue color of a Russian’s coat inspires this name. This purrfect cat name is also a touch old fashioned, especially ideal for those who love history.
Sterling – Another name inspired by the silver and blue cat’s coat. Try this cat name when you are looking for something classic for either a boy or a girl cat, that will never go out of style.
Sammy – The purrfect cat name for a friendly Russian blue who will always make you smile.
Pavarotti– Once you hear the Russian blue cat’s musical meow, you know they could create their own concert if they wished to. So why not give them a singer’s name? Here is a well-known opera singer, to help inspire your name choices.
Moscow – Many pet parents like naming their pets after places. Why not name your Russian Blue cat after a part of Russia, to always remind you of their origin?
Johnny Depp – This unique actor has always captured our attention – just as any beautiful Russian blue cat would. Like a cat, he is slightly mysterious and with magnetic eyes.
Elizabeth Taylor – This vintage Hollywood actor is beloved by many, and is known for her nearly mesmerizing eyes and lovely voice. The purrfect name for your beautiful female Russian blue cat.
Turquoise – Are you simply captivated by your cat’s unique coat color? Why not name them after the color blue?
Satin or Silky – Both of these are excellent cat names for Russian Blues, as this cat breed is known for having thick, super soft, and silky fur. Shadow – Russian Blue cats can be very active and may move as quickly as a flickering shadow sometimes! Try this name for your surprising feline.
