Are Russian Blues Good Family Cats?

Families usually ask this question with a specific worry behind it — will the cat cope with children, noise and a busy house? Here is an honest answer rather than a flattering one.

Yes, with one important condition

Russian Blues are gentle, patient and genuinely affectionate with their own families, which makes them well suited to family life. The condition is this: they are usually reserved with strangers and sensitive to chaos. A home with constant loud noise, or very young children who have not yet learned to handle animals gently, can be difficult for them.

With children

They are sturdy enough for respectful children and typically patient. The key is teaching children to let the cat come to them, to handle gently, and to leave them alone when they retreat. Cats who always have somewhere to escape to become far more confident around children than cats who cannot get away. We cover this in more detail in our guide to Russian Blues and children.

With other pets

Russian Blues generally coexist well with other cats and with cat-friendly dogs, provided introductions are slow and supervised. Their calm nature helps. Read our guide to introducing a Russian Blue to a dog for the step-by-step approach.

With visitors

Expect your Russian Blue to disappear when guests arrive and reappear once the house is quiet. This is normal, not a temperament fault. With patient socialisation from kittenhood most become comfortable, but rare is the Russian Blue who works a room.

Practical advantages for families

• They shed less than most breeds and groom in minutes a week — see our grooming guide
• They are quiet, which suits apartments and townhouses
• They are intelligent and easy to litter train
• Their gentle nature suits first-time owners and older children

Is your family ready?

If you want a companionable, undemanding cat who will bond closely with the household while staying dignified around visitors, a Russian Blue is an excellent fit. You can meet the kittens we have available, or talk to us about your family’s circumstances.