The Russian Blue is thought to have been brought to England on ships that left the Russian port of Arkangelsk. It's certainly a cat which has evolved for cold climates; it has wonderful short grey plush fur that's so thick it feels like velvet, a stocky body and a bit of a propensity to lay down fat.

My Mum's Russian, Koshka, is a great bear of a cat. He's the largest of her four cats by a long shot, and ironically the most cowardly.

Russian Blues are clean and shed very little. They love to play with small toys around the house, and they enjoy jumping and climbing; Koshka likes to have toys thrown into the air for him to catch. They bond very easily with their people and are loyal to those who love them; frequently following them from room to room to be near them. Russians show their affection in a variety of ways. Some enjoy leaping onto the shoulder of their person and riding there. Other Russians are eager to butt heads with their person. These sensitive cats seem genuinely hurt when they come to their people to show affection and are put aside.

The Russian Blue is typically a fairly shy cat; they dislike strangers, and when stressed can become fearful and lash out; I wouldn't really recommend them as a child's cat. They are an immensely rewarding pet for adults, though, simply because they're a cat that really does return affection.

There are no genetic diseases associated with the Russian Blue, but you should, of course, give yours proper veterinary care and plenty of exercise. Beware the Russian's tendency to become overweight, and give him lots and lots of affection.

You'll be looking at paying about a hundred pounds for a pet quality cat. These cats are such a joy to have in the home; they'll repay your love a hundred fold.