How to Buy a Russian Grey Kitten

Russian Grey kittens are actually Russian Blues.

According to the American Cat Fanciers' Association, the world's largest registry of pedigreed cats, the Russian Grey is a misnomer for a Russian Blue. The Russian Blue has a "blue" coat but it looks like each hair has been dipped in silver. These cats are affectionate, gentle and courteous. Although they look like any other grey cat or kitten, they have an identifying perpetual "Mona Lisa" smile and vivid green eyes. These cats are strikingly beautiful and possess a delightful personality. Pricing depends on bloodlines, type and markings. Breeders usually make the kittens available at 12-16 weeks of age. It is expected that the Russian Blues will be kept indoors, will be spayed or neutered, will receive regular inoculations and vet care and will not be declawed.

Instructions

1. Contact a cat breeders' association for a reputable Russian Blue breeder near you. Organizations to contact include, among others, the American Association of Cat Enthusiasts, the American Cat Fancier's Association, the Canadian Cat Association and the International Cat Association.

2. Contact a breeder and ask if there are any kittens available for sale now or in the near future. Set up an appointment at an agreed-upon time. Most Russian Blue breeders have waiting lists. Choose a good breeder rather than someone with the first available kitten.

3. Discuss what you are looking for in a kitten. The breeder will want to know if you want the kitten for a pet, as a breeder to improve your own line or if you plan to show the cat at a future date.

4. View the available kittens with the breeder. A reputable breeder knows which kittens he wants to cull from the stock and which animals are potentially show-quality. Prices are negotiable but a kitten for breeding starts at around $800, while a show-quality Russian Blue can command $2,000 (2010 USD), depending upon bloodlines, conformation and show prospects.

5. Be very honest with the breeder. If you purchase a pedigreed Russian Blue kitten for a pet, have the kitten neutered or spayed at the appropriate time. Pet-quality Russian Blues cost between $400-$700 (2010 USD).

6. Watch how the kittens interact with the breeder and family. Russian Blues can be shy around strangers but that does not mean the kittens will always be shy. Most likely your kitten will be a great companion once it gets to know you. Choose a breeder who has bred the kittens "underfoot" and has given each kitten ample attention and handling.

7. Bring along a cat carrier to take your new kitten home. If the kitten is being shipped to you from a long distance, expect to pay shipping costs. Make sure you are available when the kitten arrives and follow all directions provided by the breeder.

References

• Cat Fanciers' Association
• Choosing a Russian Blue

Resources

• Russian Blue Cats and Kittens