Both Simon and I love animals and neither of us is an outspoken 'dog' or 'cat' person, we like both. So, when we started planning our family we decided to (in time) have both. In order for the cat and the dog to live together, we though it would be wise to start with a cat so it can grow up in the house and have 'first rights' over the bigger dog.

We don't live in a too busy area, but there are still some busy roads around. Also because we are both working, we though an indoor cat would be the way to go. Of course personality, cuteness etc. are also factors. Lisa sort of already had a Russian Blue in my mind, but when we visited a friend in the Netherlands (on our honeymoon), who had two, we were sure: a Russian Blue.

Russian Blue

Little is known about the origin of the Russian Blue, however, stories and legends abound. Many believe the Russian Blue is a natural breed originating from the Archangel Isles in northern Russia. Legend has these beautiful animals trapped for their plush double coats, which are sometimes compared to the coat of a beaver or seal. Originally known as the Archangel Cat or Foreign Blue, it is believed that sailors brought them from the Archangel Isles to England and Northern Europe in the 1860's. Rumour also has the Russian Blue as a descendant of the Royal Cat of the Russian Tsars and as a favoured pet of Queen Victoria. More recent developments are the Russian White and the Russian Black. Apart from their coat colours, they are identical to the Russian Blue.

The Russian Blue is a gentle, affectionate cat easily distinguished from other breeds. One of the most outstanding features of the Russian Blue is a short, dense coat of an even, bright blue colour with each hair dipped in silver. This silver tipping gives the Russian a silvery sheen and lustrous appearance that can best be appreciated in natural light. The density of the coat causes it to stand out from the body and allows patterns to be traced in the coat, which remain until you smooth them away. In lovely contrast to the blue coat, the Russian Blue has large, rounded, wide-set eyes that are a vivid green. The clean lines and graceful carriage of the Russian Blue give it a regal appearance all its own.

Russian Blues are quiet, clean cats that are playful and loving companions. Despite their shy nature, Russians are devoted and quite affectionate towards their loved ones. They are very intelligent and have been reported to open doors and teach their owners to fetch. Sensitive to the mood of the house, Russians will "clown" to quiet a crying baby or sit patting your face to chase away the blues. They get along well with children and other pets.

A Russian Blue is a good choice for the modern home because their undemanding nature fits perfectly into today's busy schedules. They will entertain themselves if left alone for the day and be a contented companion upon your return. The Russian requires a minimum of grooming with periodic nail clipping and a coat that can be kept looking good by frequent petting and an occasional combing. Many Russians seem to enjoy being combed or brushed as it allows them additional time with their owners.

As luck would have it Lisa’s hairdresser had a Russian Blue and we got the details of her breeder. On the 24th of September 2000 Roebel was born. We had the name Roebel ever since we've decided on a Russian Blue. We wanted something special and after toying with some Dutch sounding names, we thought of a Russian name (Tsar, etc.) and came up with Roebel (as in the currency).

We have given her a blue collar with a bell and a little nametag. It was very funny when we put it on as she could hear the bell, but not see it. You should see the jumps and rolls she made in order to get hold of it. The collar is just for peace-of-mind even though we are not letting her outside.

Or at least not much as she likes to do her ‘business’ in the garden to to enjoy the heat. When we’re outside ourselves, she normally hangs around. She has managed to jump the fence, so much that her back-hips are a bit damaged, which has slowed her down.

It was for all of us a change when Joshua entered our lives, but of course also for Roebel who now no longer was our only 'child'. Roebel is very good with the boys, almost motherly. She came and warned us when they were crying and now that they’re older she sometimes plays with or likes to sleep on their beds.