The Russian Blue is a slender, long, svelte and graceful dainty cat. The Blues appear to be heavier in stature due to their double coats. The double coat sets the Russian Blue apart from the other blue cats. The texture of the coat feels like a silk scarf in your hands, soft and luxurious. The lighter shades of blue-gray are preferred in the show ring. There are no tabby marks or stripes in the adult coat. The eye color is a brilliant green that range from apple-green to deep jade almost blue-green. The brilliant emerald green is preferred in the show ring. There is never yellow in the eyes of adults. The eye shape is almost round, just oval enough to show an oriental slant. Eyes are set one eye width or more apart. The Russian Blue has a high fore-head, with the top of skull flat and narrow, smoothly curving into the back of the neck. Face is broad at eye level and looks even broader due to thick fur at side of head. Medium length straight nose looks upturned from almost any view except profile due to light reflection. Ears look pointed, as hair tufts finish off where the slightly rounded tips stop. The outside of the ears are completely covered with short, fine hair. There should be no doming between the ears. The Russian Blue is a gentle, sometimes shy cat with an often playful manner. The Russians also make wonderful companions for children and if not handled roughly they interact easily with the little ones. The Russian is an intelligent cat and training should be repetition, not man-handling. Russian Blues take pride in cleanliness, orderly household. They will let you know if you haven't cleaned the litter box or if you haven't provided two boxes for both duties! Overall Blues are a healthy breed. Seek good veterinary care, feed high quality food, and provide daily exercise and lots of love. Watch out for any changes in your cat's habits. Changes in habits usually signal a potential health issue. Most Russians select one family member to bond with more closely than the rest.