Russian Blue Cats Vs Maine Coon Cats [Full Cpmparison]

Russian Blue Cats Vs Maine Coon Cats

You saw a man carrying Russian blue and Maine coon at the corner of your street. Your eyes suddenly to both of the cats abut somehow you only want one of them. So, how do you choose between Maine coon and Russian blue? How do you know which one is best for you? Which can be the best pet for your house as well as for kids?

Both Russian blue cats and Maine coon cats are beautiful cats by their character and appearance. But the difference lies in their personality, care, health difference, cost, and more.

So, read the complete article and find more about Russian blue cats vs Maine coon cats.

Introduction to Russian Blue Cats

Russian blue cats can be classified as a definite breed with quirky characteristics. They are one of the sensitive and most caring cats you can find. They come in colors varying from silver to a more dark grey slate. Their fur is a significant characteristic of the Russian breed which stands out from the body. They can withstand cold temperatures better than other cats due to this double coat fur.

During world war 2, the Russian blue was nearly wiped out but was fortified using other breeds such as the Siamese and the British blue cats. They managed to get the breed that we know now.

Introduction to Maine Coon Cats

The Maine coon cats are the largest domesticated cat breed you can find. They are known to have excellent hunting skills which makes them distinctive from other cats. Maine coon cat is officially native to the United States. It is considered to be the oldest breed of cats in North America as well. They were also popular in cat shows in the late 19th century because their appearance was different from a normal cat. Considering this, the Maine coon has been one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States. The breed’s colors distinct from chocolate to a darker brown and have a long bushy tail.

Difference Between Russian Blue Cats and Maine Coon Cats

Origin Difference

The Russian blue cat likely originated from the Northwest of Russia. However, they are a naturally occurring breed so it’s hard to identify their original origin. They were also called Archangel cats because some believe they originated in Europe. It is also believed that they have been called Spanish cats and Maltese cats specifically in the US but some links were there with Russia as similar characteristics were found in cats of Russia.

Cats like Scandinavia with their thick fur indicate they lived in the Northern cold climate. So, it is believed that the Russian blue is linked with Russia.

On the other hand, The Maine coon cat is originated from America. These cats have a raccoon-like tail and were long-haired coats and were brought into the State of Maine. Hence, the name was given Maine coon cats.

Maine coons are known to deal with extreme cold and winter seasons. The Maine coon cats were then exported to different countries like the UK. The Maine coon cats were first recognized as a specific breed in the state of Maine where it was given the name of the official cat of the state.

Difference in Appearance

Russian blue cats have dense coat-like fur and are medium-sized cats but due to the fur that stands out from their actual body, it seems to look larger. The color of the fur ranges from shades of grey with a little bit of shiny silver.

These cats normally weigh about 7 to 12 pounds. Talking about the interesting characteristic of the Russian blues appearance is the eyes. It can change drastically from the hue of yellow to greenish color over time. What’s even more interesting about their eyes is that since birth, they change colors. At first in its kitten stage, the cats are born with yellow more like golden eyes but slowly turn to green when they’re around 4 months old and get darker over time till it reaches adulthood.

Moving on to the Maine coon cats, they are big furred cats which makes them look bigger and majestic in some sort. These coats are silky and smooth and grow more behind the head which gives them an appealing look and distinct from other breeds. The color of the fur can be seen in white, red, blue, black, and also creamy colors too.

Also, they can be of two colors, tabby, calico, and tortoiseshell patterns as well. This breed of cats normally weighs around 8-18 pounds which is slightly bigger than the Russian blues. Maine coon cats can also be as tall as 40 inches in length complementing their muscular bodies and fine legs.

Behavior and Personality Difference

The Russian blue cats are mostly calm, affectionate, and smart breeds of cats. They are friendly with families and even other pets in their homes. They can be playful but they don’t like being clingy. At first, the cat might not seem to pick up these behaviors but as time passes and when he learns to get along they are more comfortable and loving. They are cautious about strangers and take time to be as friendly with them as the pet owners but they’ll get along as time goes by.

Russian blues are extremely sensitive but loyal to the owner and are agile and very light-footed. They mostly like to entertain themselves but also prefer attention and active games which they like to play. Attention is what this breed of cats seek and once you give them they’ll appreciate the companions and follow you around the house. They are very attentive about their litter boxes and will complain if they don’t get a proper management of their litter boxes.

On the other hand, with Maine coon cats are playful but silly and they are very easy-going cats. They are observant and tend to be patients with children and other pets. The main coon cats enjoy companies and follow their owner from room to room. They like cuddling and also will curl up if you give them the attention they seek.

Unlike other cats, they tend to enjoy water and bathing, so if you own one, don’t be surprised by the way it plays with the water. It is mainly because their thick coats are water repellent so the water won’t easily pass to the body perhaps making them less annoyed.

Toys are common likings for the cats and it is the same with Maine coon cats. They love chasing and playing with their toys and act like they’re on a hunt for their prey and will even try to pounce their toys. Main coon cats enjoy outside life so feel free to let them climb trees and practice hunting. These cats are also known for the delectable sound they make. More, you can get the best toys for both Russian blue and Maine coon cats.

These cats are proven harder to get used to humans so it’ll take time in their decision-making process. All these efforts to win their trust and close the bonds.

Different Historical Backgrounds

Talking about the history these cats have evolved in and known, the Russian blue cats were brought to Britain in 1860 by the sailors from the White sea town of Archangel in Russia. Most people say this is true but we’ll just let people be the judge as there is no true evidence as such. Their characteristics such as the coats matched with the blue shorthair cats in Russia so general theory claims that they originated in Northern Russia where the climate is cold.

They were part of the world’s first cat show which was held in London’s Crystal Palace due to their charms and unique appearance. Despite not winning the show they left a great impression on the uniqueness and elegance the cats had.

The breed almost got extinct when World War II took place but later made progress and the Russian blue we know now resembles the original breed.

Talking about the Maine coon cat, these cats are native to America and have been there for a long period of time. The name is given from the State itself, Maine. However, stories tell that it is a hybrid of raccoon/domestic cat hence the name Maine coon cat. The Maine coon was the first breed to be recognized in the late 19th-century cat fancy and became a favorite.

Moreover, the breed was declared extinct in 1950 but it was just an exaggerated statement and today the cats have lived to be the most renowned cat breeds who look elegant and gained popularity.

The severe climate made obligations to the cat’s survival and only the strongest and most adaptable ones survived which then developed into a large, rugged cat.

Difference in Physical Attributes

Russian blue cats are found in shades of grey not particularly blue as the name suggests. They have a shimmery characteristic and have a very dense coat. The outer coat of this breed is so thick and shimmery that you can even draw patterns with your finger which will remain until you smoothen it over again.

The Russian blues are muscular and lean in nature and the head shape is a triangle with pointed ears. The top skull is long and flat pulled downward towards the eyes. The ears are larger and wide at the base but pointed on the top. The outer ears are covered with short hair, unlike the body portion.

The legs are long but the paws are very small and rounded. The front paws have five toes and the rear has four. Moreover, the tail part of the cat is long but thin but has a thick base. The outer color as mentioned earlier is shimmery shades of grey.

Whereas the Maine coon cats are quite different from the Russian blue, they are well-balanced medium to large-sized cats. The head is longer in length but medium in width making its face look a bit tall. Maine coon cats have a wider base and pointed on the top but the shape is different from that of the Russian blue cat.

The color of the cat’s eye can be seen as green, gold, blue, and also sometimes white. Talking about the tail it is wide at the base but has fur and is long flowing. Maine coons coat is heavy but shorter on the shoulders and has a silky texture to it and can range from many colors such as chocolate, brown, and a combination of whites. They have big paws with tufts of fur that sometimes feel like a shoe to them.

Care and Grooming Difference

Russian blues have thick coats as mentioned above which might seem like the hair falls off often, but that’s not really the case. They shed very little but you must brush them once or at most twice to remove the excess unwanted hair present in the cat. Also, during the spring season where they shed the most, you can increase the brushing routine. So, learn the best grooming tips for the Russian blue cat.

Talking about their teeth and nails, you can simply trim the cats’ nails per need. About their teeth, brushing them with toothpaste that is approved by the vet is advised. The Russian blues litter box must be kept in a familiar location else they might seek a bathroom. They love to explore so you must focus on installing grills or locks that you may find dangerous for the cat to be climbing on.

With every cat, regular health checkups and vaccination are advisory and mandatory as well. With that being said, proper high-quality cat food is also necessary so consulting a vet on the diet plan is very important. They seek a lot of energy as they are very playful and always running so a proper diet plan is advisory.

Talking about the Maine coon cat, the outer coat of the cat is dealt with ease by the cat itself but it needs regular grooming to keep it in good shape. A well-groomed cat is a sign of a healthy cat, with that regular bathing is also necessary. They require bathing ranging from a week to a month depending on the looks of the coats. Once they start to appear greasy, it’s time you get your cat for a good bath. Improper grooming will get their coats tangled and will be hard to get rid of at a later time.

One common thing between the Russian blue and the Maine coon is the playfulness and the training they acquire. They learn the basic litterbox use and will keep in mind the importance of cleanliness.

Feeding the cat’s area always important because all the energy that is received is from the food they eat. So, high-quality food must be provided to the cat. Along with regular vet inspection, the schedule of the feeding of the cat should be maintained.

More, you may want to learn about the proper diet plan of the Russian blue cat.

Living Needs Comparison

Russian blue cats don’t always seek new things around themselves and prefer old faces and a relative environment. The surroundings must be calm and the restriction of new visitors is advisable as the cat is sensitive and shy. These cats mostly get along with the faces they are used to seeing and other pets that they’re living with for a long time.

The Russian blues don’t mind being left alone so you don’t need to worry about giving them company every time. They’ll wait for you and appreciate the time you give them because they’re highly intelligent and energetic.

These cats might require feeding multiple times a day but don’t ruin their schedule as you may disrupt their habit. Feeding should be normal and the amounts to be fed should be measured every time to make sure you don’t overfeed them. That’s because Russian blue can easily gain weight and have some health issues.

Moreover, the Maine coon cats love playing with the family. They will require you to give them attention on a day-to-day basis. Unlike Russian blue cats, leaving them alone is not a good choice as they don’t like being alone. One must think about it and at least have one or two people staying in the home if you are to pet a Maine coon cat.

These cats have a soft voice and love to play in the water. Unlike other cats, bathing is not a problem. This might seem like a great thing about the cat but they will follow you to the shower so you might find it a bit irritating.

Finally, they love to spend time with the family, and attention is most required if you were to welcome a Maine coon in your house.

Health Difference

Russian blues live typically about 15-20 years which is quite a number compared to other cats. They are very healthy breeds but sometimes struggle with Progressive Retinal Atrophy which is a diminishing of the vision of the eye. They can also suffer from kidney diseases called Polycystic Kidney Disease which is common for this breed.

Despite some Russian blue diseases, the cat must be taken to the vet for a regular checkup and should listen to the vet’s advice.

However, the Maine coon cats compared to the Russian blue live only about 10-13 years but they live a quite healthy life with only some disease that might affect them. They are prone to have a joint disease such as arthritis due to their large size. They are also seen to have Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and dental diseases as well.

Other than that regular vet checkup is mandatory and it is important until your cat reaches adulthood.

Cost Comparison

The Russian blue cats cost around $400 to $600 whereas the Maine coon breed will cost you a whopping $900. These prices might shock you on how the cats share some of the common behaviors and traits but the difference in price is quite a lot. This is mainly because of the availability of these cats in different regions. Also, the way it should be taken care of is different.

Fun Facts about Russian Blue Cats

  • Russian blue cats were known as Archangel cats. It is believed that they come from Archangel Isles in Northern Russia.
  • They have blue fur but we cannot really see them because the tip of the fur is the shade of grey.
  • These cats are a naturally occurring breed.
  • They are considered a Royal breed.

Fun Facts about Maine Coon Cats

  • They love to play with water and will try to sneak around the house to find water to play with.
  • They don’t like being left alone and will acquire the company of familiar faces.
  • These cats can have a coat that ranges up to 75 unique color combinations.
  • They are officially recognized as the official symbol of the state of Maine. One of the reasons why they are named Maine coon.

Conclusion

Seeing these cats, they have similarities in some aspects but mostly differ. From the way they behave and how one must be treated. The Russian blues have a very sweet-tempered personality along with socially active. They will enjoy time alone, whereas, the Maine coons are typically a strong breed. They don’t like being alone and highly seek attention. Not just with the personality but there are many different factors you need to consider before getting one. Both the breeds are unique and fascinate owners in their own way and both are important parts of cat history.

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