Developed in Australia from 1971, using Russian Blue cats and a white Siberian cat; earlier white and black Russians were also bred in the UK from the 1960s.312
what they are likeRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby temperament
Affectionate and playful with its own people, while often a little reserved with visitors. These cats are bright and like to join in games, but they are not known for causing chaos, and many get along well with children and other pets.12
how to spot oneRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby coat and colours
short, dense double coat
A long, graceful, fine-boned cat that shares the Russian Blue's build: a short wedge-shaped head, large upright ears, long legs and small oval paws. The short coat is thick yet fine, with a plush undercoat that makes the fur stand out from the body, so it feels soft and springy. White kittens can be born with a small darker patch on the head that fades as they mature.123
Colourswhiteblacktabbygreen eyes in all colours312
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
how busy a day looksRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby exercise needs
Moderate. Daily play sessions and a cat tree or shelves for climbing keep them content.2
the hands-on bitsRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby grooming and care
Low. The coat stays in good shape with little help, though a weekly session with a soft brush reduces loose hair and most of these cats enjoy it.12
where they are happiestRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby at home
Adapts well to indoor life when given vertical space such as a cat tower.2
who they like aroundRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby with people and other pets
Bonds closely with family and greets them warmly, yet copes well with spending time alone and can keep itself busy.21
where it all beganRussian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby history
In the 1960s a British breeder, Frances MacLeod, bred a white cat called Arctic Chumvi to a Russian Blue, and the litters produced white, blue and black kittens. In Australia, Dick and Mavis Jones of Myemgay Cattery started a separate programme in 1971 by crossing a white Siberian cat with a Russian Blue stud, and the resulting line reached championship status in New South Wales in 1975. Tabby Russians came out of the same breeding work.312
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
The Australian programme's first white kitten was named White Rose, and her own kittens were raised by hand with a bottle.3
2
The foundation white Siberian cat in Australia came from an official at the Thai Embassy, who swapped it for a Russian Blue.3
3
The Russian coat has been likened to the fur of a seal or a beaver because of its dense, stand-up texture.2
4
GCCF shows the Russian in three colours, while CFA and FIFe keep the breed to blue only.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name comes from the Russian Blue, from which the Russian White, Russian Black, and Russian Tabby were derived in 1971. The Russian White and Russian Black were created as part of a planned breeding program to improve the Russian Blue, with the white variety originating from a kitten reportedly from a Russian boat.4
told by a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian TabbyA day in the life
This morning I stretched on my cat tree, watching the sun warm my favorite spot. My human brought a feather toy, and I pounced with joy. After breakfast, I curled up in a lap for a nap. Later, I chased a dust bunny across the floor, then sat by the window, tail twitching at birds outside. The kids came home and I let them pet me, purring loudly. At dusk, I played hide-and-seek behind the curtains. A perfect day, full of love and small adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
ACFA
Russian Black and Russian White granted championship status in 2010 (as Russian Shorthair)3
GCCF
Recognised as colours of the Russian breed: blue, black and white1
Australian registries
Full register status and championship eligibility in New South Wales in 1975; fully recognised in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa3
CFA / FIFe
Accept the Russian breed in blue only, so these colours are not recognised there1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby, and at what times?
Feeding schedules vary by age, weight and activity, so it's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for a plan that suits your cat. Most adult cats do well with two meals a day at consistent times. Always provide fresh water and follow the food label's guidance.
What should a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality cat food that meets nutritional standards, and always check with your vet for amounts. Many human foods are dangerous, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, so keep those away. For a full list, see the ASPCA's toxic foods guide.5
Does a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for this breed, only if the coat becomes very dirty or sticky. Their short dense coat stays clean with regular brushing. When a bath is necessary, use a cat-safe shampoo and keep it gentle.6
How often does a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby need brushing?
A weekly brushing with a soft brush is perfect for removing loose hair and keeping the coat soft. Most Russian cats enjoy this gentle grooming time. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests brushing every seven days.126Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every few weeks, using proper cat nail clippers and cutting only the clear tip to avoid the quick. Start with one or two claws per session to help your cat feel comfortable. Pet Wiki's plan suggests trimming every 21 days, while general guidance recommends every ten days to two weeks.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby need?
Daily play sessions keep this bright and playful breed happy, along with a cat tree or shelves for climbing. They enjoy joining in games but aren't overly chaotic. Pet Wiki recommends daily playtime to meet their moderate activity needs.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby's teeth and ears?
Daily tooth brushing is ideal for dental health, and Pet Wiki's plan suggests cleaning teeth every two days. For ears, check them weekly and gently wipe with a vet-recommended cleaner if needed, but ask your vet for specific ear care advice. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby live?
These cats typically live between 10 and 15 years, enjoying a long and healthy life with proper care. Regular vet checkups and a loving home help them thrive.12
Is a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are affectionate and playful with their own family and many get along well with children and other pets. They can be a little reserved with visitors, but they are not known for causing trouble. Early socialisation helps build confidence.12
Can a Russian White, Russian Black and Russian Tabby be left alone?
This breed bonds closely with its family but copes well with time alone and can keep itself busy. They adapt to indoor life with vertical spaces to explore. Just provide toys and a comfortable environment when you're away.21
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Russian Blue
Nebelung
Korat
Chartreux