russian-white-black-and-tabby

Russian White, Black, and Tabby cats are the result of an Australian breeding program that began with a white Siberian cat and a Russian Blue cat. The White Siberian cat had no pedigree, however when she was mated to a Russian Blue, she produced two white offspring. The breeders, Dick and Mavis Jones of Myemgay Cattery, kept a white kitten and named it White Rose. When she reached adulthood, she looked like a pure white version of a Russian Blue.

White Rose was mated back to her Russian Blue sire, Myemgay Yuri. She gave birth to two more White Russian kittens, which were eventually paired with Russian Blue stud cats. The best white kittens were continually bred back to Russian Blues until the breed was fully established. The Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of New South Wales, Australia, granted Championship status in 1975, but only to the Russian White.

Russian Black and Russian Tabby kittens can occur when two Russian Blue cats are mated to one another, and they sometimes occur when one parent is a Russian White.

Not all registries recognize all “Russian” cat colors or place them all in the same category. For example, The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and Federation International Feline (FIFe) only recognize Russian Blues. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) recognizes Russian White and Russian Black cats, and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) has distinct breed standards that separate Russian Blues from Russian Shorthairs in blue, white, and black colors.

Three distinct coat colors in one adorable breed: Russian White, Black, and Tabby cats were all developed with help from the much-loved Russian Blue. Stunning looks, luxurious short-haired coats, and wonderful personalities are a few things that help these kitties stand out from the crowd.

Russian Black, White, and Tabby cats are playful and personable, but not terribly mischievous. Happy to keep their families entertained, these kitties make amusing companions thanks to their high intelligence. Like their blue-haired cousins, these cats quickly learn which behaviors earn pats and praise from their human family members, and which behaviors are best avoided. They share the Russian Blue’s sensitive nature; a loud scolding is likely to hurt this individual’s feelings and send them into hiding.

Friendly and sociable with family members including other pets including well-behaved dogs, Russian Tabby, White, and Black cats have a decidedly shy streak. They aren’t at all fond of strangers and will tuck themselves safely into a safe spot when new people come to visit. This trait means they aren’t good candidates for leash training; instead, it’s best to provide plenty of indoor exercise opportunities that allow for safe enjoyment on the cat’s terms.

Those who spend long hours away from home will be glad to hear that Russian White, Black, and Tabby cats are perfectly fine with the idea of keeping themselves entertained (or asleep) while their human friends are at work or school. They’re likely to greet you with a series of happy meows and a wiggling tail when you return.

Speaking of meows, these kitties are somewhat talkative, but far less so than their Siamese ancestors. They have a reputation for talking back when spoken to, and for reaching out with a questioning paw when they’d like to receive some attention. Some will “sing” to themselves while playing with a favorite toy, and some will become fairly demanding when they sense mealtime approaching.

If you’re lucky enough to make a Russian White, Black, or Tabby cat part of your family, you’ll enjoy a lifetime of companionship, cozy snuggles, and friendly chats.