Caesar Hargraves
The Maine Coon and Russian Blue are two of the most popular cat breeds in the UK. They differ in several ways, from physical characteristics to personality traits. Maine Coons are larger, with long-haired coats, and were originally hardworking farm or ship cats with a playful demeanour. Russian Blues, on the other hand, are smaller with short blue coats and demure personalities, making them perfect indoor cats. In terms of personality, Maine Coons are extroverted and outgoing, while Russian Blues are typically shy and reserved. While both breeds can be affectionate, Maine Coons require more space and attention due to their size and playful nature.
What You'll Learn
Differences between Maine Coons and Russian Blues
Maine Coons and Russian Blues are two of the most popular cat breeds in the UK. While both breeds are intelligent, observant, trainable, independent, protective, and loyal, there are several differences between the two.
Physical Differences
Maine Coons are larger than Russian Blues, with broad, square-ish faces, protruding snouts, and long, rectangular, or heavy-boned physiques. In contrast, Russian Blues have small, slender faces with triangular jawlines and compact, fine-boned bodies. Maine Coons have long, fluffy coats that can be white, black, orange, or tabby-coloured, while Russian Blues have short, dense, double-layered coats in shades of bluish-grey.
Behavioural Differences
Maine Coons are extroverted and outgoing, while Russian Blues are shy and reserved. Maine Coons are vocal and expressive, while Russian Blues are quiet and mellow. Maine Coons require more space to explore and hunt, while Russian Blues are content with smaller living spaces. Maine Coons can be impatient and hissy if things don't go their way, while Russian Blues are polite and aloof with strangers, rarely acting aggressively.
Health Differences
Russian Blues are relatively healthy, with a lifespan of 15-20 years, while Maine Coons have a shorter lifespan of 13-15 years due to age-related health problems. Common health issues for both breeds include premature tooth loss, diabetes, knee-cap dislocation, and degenerative eye diseases. Maine Coon Russian Blue hybrids may be susceptible to health issues common to both breeds, such as diabetes, obesity, and bone and joint diseases.
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The Russian Blue Maine Coon hybrid
Appearance
The appearance of this hybrid depends on which parent breed it most resembles. It usually has a proportional head, with a rectangular shape if it takes after the Maine Coon. It may have large eyes and tufted ears, and will likely have a long and thick mane, especially if male. This crossbreed will typically have long and large bones with strong, well-defined muscles, and large paws on strong legs.
The coat length and colour depend on genetics, but it is expected to be medium to long in various shades. The crossbreed will likely shed a lot, so daily grooming is recommended.
The height of the Russian Blue Maine Coon mix is typically between 9 and 16 inches, and they can weigh anywhere from 7 to 18 pounds.
Personality
The personality of this hybrid also depends on which parent breed is dominant in its genetic makeup. If the cat takes after the Maine Coon, it will likely be friendly, talkative, adventurous, and will require training to control its hyperactive side. If it takes after the Russian Blue, it will likely be reserved, mild-mannered, and prefer a pampered, indoor lifestyle. However, its personality is ultimately unpredictable and will depend on how it is raised and socialised.
Health
Mixed-breed cats are usually healthier than purebreds due to their wider gene pool. However, the Russian Blue Maine Coon hybrid may be susceptible to illnesses common to both parent breeds, such as diabetes, obesity, and bone and joint diseases. A low-protein diet can also cause health issues, so it is important to feed this hybrid high-quality kibble with more than 50% animal protein.
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Health issues in Russian Blues and Maine Coons
Russian Blues are a generally healthy breed with no known genetic health issues. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, but can live much longer, with some living beyond 25 years. However, as with all cats, there are some potential health issues to be aware of.
Obesity is a common problem for Russian Blues, as they tend to love eating. This can increase their risk of diabetes, cancer, respiratory and heart diseases, and more. Dental issues are also common in cats, and it is important to maintain good dental hygiene for your Russian Blue by regularly brushing their teeth with cat-safe toothpaste.
While not common, Russian Blues can also be prone to polycystic kidney disease and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It is recommended that breeders screen for these issues. Additionally, Russian Blues, like all cats, should receive core vaccinations to prevent bacterial and viral infections.
Maine Coons, on the other hand, are predisposed to certain health issues due to their genetics. Some common hereditary problems include spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and hip dysplasia. SMA affects the nerves in the spine, leading to an awkward gait and posture. HCM is a heart condition that can lead to sudden death, and PKD causes cysts to form in the kidneys, resulting in potential kidney failure. Hip dysplasia is an orthopaedic condition that can cause hip dislocation.
Maine Coons may also suffer from lifestyle-related health issues such as obesity and dental problems due to poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits. It is important to provide them with a proper diet and regular exercise to maintain their health and longevity.
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Origins of the Russian Blue
The Russian Blue cat is believed to have originated on Archangel (Arkhangelsk) Island in northern Russia, which is why they were once referred to as Archangel cats. They were favoured by Russian royalty and czars, and were brought to the UK by sailors in the mid-1860s. They were among the contestants in the first cat shows in England and were classified as a separate breed by 1912.
Russian Blues are an older, naturally occurring breed, meaning they were not man-made. Because of their long history, the breed's exact origins are unknown. It is thought that they were brought to England and Northern Europe via ship from Archangel Island and other parts of Russia in the 1800s. Most historical references put their arrival in Great Britain and Northern Europe around 1860. They were first recorded at a cat show in England in 1872, where they were referred to as Archangel Cats.
Russian Blues are believed to have descended from the cats kept by the Russian Czars. They were exhibited at London's Crystal Palace in 1875 as the Archangel Cat. By the middle of the nineteenth century, cat shows had become regular and popular events. They made their first appearance in the US in the early 1900s but did not become popular until after World War II.
Breeders in England and Scandinavia were primarily responsible for the breed's full development, and they remain extremely popular, especially among European royalty.
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Maine Coon catteries
When looking to buy a Maine Coon kitten, it is important to choose a registered breeder to ensure the health and wellbeing of the kitten. Registered breeders will screen their breeding cats for genetic medical issues and will provide a full veterinary history. They will also be able to provide authentic pedigree paperwork.
One such registered breeder is MetatronEyes Cattery, founded in Athens, Greece, in 2012, and now based in Arkansas, USA. MetatronEyes is a family-run cattery with a focus on health, temperament, and faithfulness to the breed standard. They have worked with breeders from around the world and have diversified their bloodlines. Their cats live freely with them in their home, with plenty of space to roam. MetatronEyes also provides ongoing support and advice to new families.
Another option is Maine Coon Central, which provides a directory of registered Maine Coon cat breeders. The website outlines criteria for selecting a registered breeder, including accreditation, health testing protocols, and reputation and reviews. It is important to research and vet breeders thoroughly before making a commitment.
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Frequently asked questions
Maine Coons are larger than Russian Blues, with long-haired coats, broad, square-ish faces, and a rectangular and heavy-boned physique. They are extroverted and outgoing. Russian Blues, on the other hand, have short blue coats, a small, slender face with a triangular jawline, and a compact and fine-boned physique. They are shy and reserved.
The resulting hybrid typically has a long-haired, grey-blue, fluffy coat, a solid-coloured or bicoloured coat, a medium-sized body, a wide face, and green eyes. Their personality can vary depending on which breed's genes are dominant, but they may inherit the adventurous and talkative nature of the Maine Coon or the shy and mild-mannered nature of the Russian Blue.
Mixed-breed cats tend to be healthier than purebreds due to their wider gene pool. However, they can still inherit health issues common to both parent breeds, such as premature tooth loss, diabetes, knee-cap dislocation, and degenerative eye diseases.
Provide a diet rich in animal protein (over 50%) and lean meat and fish, while limiting dry food, snacks, and treats, to prevent obesity and maintain their health.
