How Much Does a Russian Blue Cat Cost?

Last Updated on February 9, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The beautiful Russian Blue, with its striking green eyes and soft silvery-blue coat, makes a wonderful companion for the right owner. But how much does a Russian Blue cat cost to purchase and care for?

This complete guide provides an in-depth look at the price range and expenses involved in owning this popular breed. Read on for a comprehensive overview of the initial investment and ongoing costs of welcoming a Russian Blue into your home.

How Much Does a Russian Blue Cat Cost?

For a purebred Russian Blue kitten from a reputable breeder, expect to pay between $500-$1,500. This can vary based on factors like the kitten’s show potential, bloodline, and breeder reputation.

On average, pet-quality Russian Blues cost $800-$1,200, while show-quality cats with excellent conformation and pedigree range from $1,200-$1,500+.

Some additional pricing considerations include:

• Genetic and health testing – Reputable breeders perform testing to ensure their kittens are healthy and breed standard, which is reflected in higher pricing.
• Registration and pedigree – Registered, pedigreed kittens from champion bloodlines cost more.
• Location – Prices tend to be higher on the coasts and in urban areas. Rural breeders may have lower pricing.

For a purebred Russian Blue with papers, avoid unsuitably low prices below $500, as this may indicate irresponsible breeding practices. Be prepared to pay a premium for health, quality, and pedigree from an ethical, experienced breeder.

Catbreedslist.com states that the price of a Russian Blue cat typically ranges between $800-$1,200. However, cats with an excellent pedigree from famous breeding farms, featuring beautiful eye colors and feathers, can cost $1,500-$3,000.

Betterpet.com mentions that the price of a purebred Russian Blue kitten can range from $500 to $2,500. It also discusses the breed’s lifespan and grooming requirements.

A-z-animals.com provides an average price range for a Russian Blue kitten from an established breeder, which usually falls between $500-$1,000. Additionally, it lists various other costs associated with owning a Russian Blue, such as adoption fees, grooming, medical expenses, and insurance.

A discussion on Reddit shows that purebred Russian Blue cats with papers tend to cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000, and it is uncommon to find them in shelters or for lower prices.

Adoption Fees: Rescuing a Russian Blue

If purchasing from a breeder is not ideal, consider adopting a Russian Blue. Adoption fees typically range from $50-$150 through Russian Blue-specific rescues or shelters.

The adoption process involves:

• Completing an application
• Home visit
• Signing an adoption contract
• Paying the adoption fee

The fee covers initial vetting like spay/neuter, vaccines, and microchipping. While adopted cats may not have papers, you still get the wonderful companionship of the Russian Blue personality!

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Tonkinese cat, a Himalayan cat, or a Norwegian cat.

Initial Vet Care and Supplies

Once you have your new kitten, prepare for some initial expenses for supplies and veterinary care during the first few months:

• Vaccinations and preventatives – Expect to spend $50-$150 or more for kitten shots, flea/tick prevention, deworming, etc.
• Spay/neuter – Budget $50-$100 for this essential surgery, typically performed around 6 months old.
• Vet exam – The first kitten checkup will likely cost $50-$100.
• Cat accessories – A litter box, food/water bowls, scratching posts, toys, cat bed, and other essentials will run you $200-$300+.
• Initial cat food – Stock up on premium cat food for at least one month, around $50-$60.

So in total, plan on approximately $400-$800 in initial supplies and vet bills as you get started with your Russian Blue kitten. Purchase high-quality items to save on replacements later.

Monthly Maintenance Costs for a Russian Blue

Once your Russian Blue is settled in, regular monthly expenses for care and maintenance arise. Budget the following costs over the life of your cat:

Cat Food and Treats

Feeding your Russian Blue a nutritious cat food diet is essential for health. Expect to spend $20-$40 per month on premium dry and canned food. Treats and extras may cost another $5-$20.

Litter and Litter Box Supplies

With regular litter box scooping and full litter changes, plan on $10-$30 per month for clumping litter and additional costs for litter box liners, cleaning supplies, etc.

Grooming and Hygiene

Thanks to their short coats, Russian Blues require minimal grooming. Occasional brushing, nail trims, baths, ear cleaning, and dental care may add $10-$30 per month in costs.

Health Screenings and Preventatives

Annual vet exams ($50-$100), vaccines ($20-$100), parasite prevention ($10-$30 per dose), and dental cleanings ($200-$800) are key for health. Budget $50-$150 per month for these routine care expenses.

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance for accident/illness coverage ranges from $20-$100 per month depending on your policy limits. This protects against unexpected vet bills.

Toys and Miscellaneous

Allocate $10-$20 per month for new cat toys to keep your Russian Blue entertained and mentally stimulated. Other periodic costs like damages may occur.

In total, the budget is $150-$400 per month for food, care, insurance, and other regular pet expenses. Actual costs depend on your cat’s needs.

Hidden Costs of Owning Any Cat

While food and routine vet care make up the bulk of cat expenses, unexpected costs can sneak up with pet ownership:

• Emergency vet visits – Accidents and illness resulting in ER vet fees.
• Chronic health issues – Russian Blues may develop costly conditions like kidney disease later in life.
• Allergies – Household products or food may cause allergic reactions requiring vet treatment.
• Damage – Cats may scratch furniture, carpets, etc. leading to repair or replacement costs.
• Boarding/pet sitting – Traveling without your cat requires paying for boarding or a pet sitter.

Monitor your pet closely and have an emergency vet fund to cover surprise costs. Pet insurance helps offset unplanned vet bills.

Cost Savings of the Hypoallergenic Russian Blue

A major perk of the Russian Blue breed is their hypoallergenic quality. The thin, plush coat and lower dander production make them better tolerated by allergy sufferers.

This can lead to significant savings on allergy medication and treatment that would otherwise be needed with a more allergenic cat. Their low-shedding coats also reduce cleaning costs compared to heavier shedders.

Over your cat’s lifetime, potentially avoiding or reducing allergy medical costs saves hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For allergy sufferers, the Russian Blue makes cat ownership possible.

Budgeting Tips for Bringing Home a Russian Blue Kitty

Consider these tips for budgeting smartly:

• Have at least $500-$1000 set aside before getting a kitten to cover initial costs.
• Start a savings account for emergency vet fees. Contribute $50-$100 monthly.
• Insure your cat starting early in life when premiums are lower.
• Select economical litter, food, and supplies that still offer quality.
• Provide preventative care to avoid costly health issues later.
• Take advantage of wellness plan discounts offered by some veterinarians.

With some planning and penny pinching, you can keep costs manageable. The companionship and joy of owning this affectionate breed makes the investment rewarding.

Final Words

For the privilege of owning the regal yet endearing Russian Blue cat breed, be prepared to budget:

• $500-$1500 for the initial purchase or adoption
• $400-$800 for first-time supplies and vet fees
• $150-$400 per month for ongoing care and expenses
• Plus emergency funds for surprise vet costs

Caring for this healthy and generally robust feline does not have to be overly expensive with some research and planning. Do your homework to find a quality cat at a price within your means. The happiness this loyal companion brings outweighs the costs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Russian Blue cats friendly?

Yes, Russian Blues are known to be highly affectionate and loyal. They bond very closely with their owners and loved ones while tending to be reserved around strangers. Owners describe them as sweet, gentle, and dog-like.

Can Russian Blue be left alone?

Russian Blues adapt well to their owner’s schedule. Their moderate energy levels allow them to spend time alone without issue. Just be sure to give them plenty of playtime and affection when you are home!

Do Russian Blue cats meow a lot?

Russian Blues tend to be quiet and not very vocal. They may chirp or make other soft sounds on occasion, but loud, frequent meowing is uncommon. Overall, the Russian Blue is a peaceful, tranquil presence in the home.