KIRKOVSKI RUSSIAN CATS
Our Russian Queen Uki Countess Arkhangelsk Our Russian Stud Tyana Grigori Rasputin
Our Latest addition to our Russian Blue Family
(Picture Soon)
Russian Queen Champion Uki Daria
Little is known about the origin of the Russian Cat, however, stories and legends abound. Many believe the Russian Cat is a natural breed originating from the Archangel Isles in Northern Russia
Legend has these beautiful animals being trapped for their plush double coats which are sometimes compared to the coat of a beaver or seal. Originally known as the Archangel Cat or Foreign Blue, it is believed that they were brought by sailors from the Archangel Isles to England and Northern Europe in the 1860s.
Rumour also has the Russian Cat as a descendant of the Royal Cat of the Russian Tzars and as a favoured pet of Queen Victoria.
First shown in 1875 at the Crystal Palace in England as the Archangel Cat, the original Russian Cats competed in a class for all short-haired cats. It was not until 1912 that the Russian Cat was given a class of its own.
From its early origins until after World War II, English and Scandinavian breeders worked to develop the foundation bloodlines for the contemporary Russian cat of today.
The Russian cat is a gentle, affectionate cat easily distinguished from other breeds. One of the most outstanding features of the Russian cat is a short, dense coat of an even, bright blue, crystal white or shiny black fur. A clear tipping to each hair gives the Russian a sheen and lustrous appearance that can best be appreciated in natural light.
Russian cats come in 3 colours in Australia, blue, white and black and one coat length, short. The density of the coat causes it to stand out from the body and allows patterns to be traced in the coat which remain until you smooth them away.
In lovely contrast to the coat, the Russian cat has large, almond shaped eyes that are a vivid green. The head is sometimes described as cobra-like which aptly describes the broad, wedge shape and flat profiles.
The large ears are wide at the base and set rakishly toward the side of the head. The body of the Russian cat is fine-boned, long, and firmly muscled. The clean lines and graceful carriage of the Russian cat give it a regal appearance all its own.
Those attracted by the physical beauty of the Russian cat find the disposition of these unassuming cats equally appealing. Russian cats are quiet, clean cats who are playful and loving companions. Despite their shy nature, Russians are devoted and quite affectionate towards their loved ones.
They are very intelligent and have been reported to open doors and teach their owners to fetch. Sensitive to the mood of the house, Russians will ‘clown' to quiet a crying baby or sit patting your face to chase away the blues. They get along well with children and other pets.
A Russian cat is a good choice for the modern home because their un-demanding nature fits perfectly into today's busy schedules.
They will entertain themselves if left alone for the day and be a contented companion upon your return.
The Russian requires a minimum of grooming with periodic nail clipping and a coat that can be kept looking good by frequent petting and an occasional brushing. Many Russians seem to enjoy being combed or brushed as it allows them additional time with their owners.
While the Russian cat may at first glance look like any other cat, a more careful look will show them to have a special appearance that is all their own.
They have been said to look as if they are smiling and that the reason for that smile is known only to themselves.
But beyond appearances, the real pleasure of the Russian cat is its unique personality which sets it apart from other cats and makes it an interesting, entertaining and affectionate companion to its owners and friends.