Cat breed comparison
British Shorthair vs Russian Blue
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The British Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | British Shorthair | Russian Blue |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | Russia |
| Weight | 12 - 20 lbs | 5 - 11 lbs |
| Life span | 12 - 17 years years | 10 - 16 years years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | No | Yes |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Good with dogs
The British Shorthair gets on better with dogs than the Russian Blue.
Affection
The British Shorthair is more affectionate than the Russian Blue.
Energy
The Russian Blue has more energy than the British Shorthair.
Good with children
The British Shorthair is better with children than the Russian Blue.
Grooming needs
The Russian Blue needs more grooming than the British Shorthair.
Shedding
The British Shorthair sheds more than the Russian Blue.
Which to choose
British Shorthair or Russian Blue?
Choose the British Shorthair if…
- You want a cat that gets on better with dogs
- You want a cuddly cat (it is more affectionate)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You want a cat that is better with children
Choose the Russian Blue if…
- You’d like a more independent cat (it is more independent)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that sheds less
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
Questions.
Is the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue bigger, and which lives longer?
The British Shorthair tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue?
The British Shorthair is usually the better fit for families with children, though a well-socialised Russian Blue can be great too. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Russian Blue sheds less than the British Shorthair. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
