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There is an abundance of incredibly delightful and treasurable characteristics that Russian Blues flaunt, including their innate tendency for displaying gentle and passive traits. So, would such a docile and attentive breed benefit from spending time outside?
Russian Blue cats can go outside. Russian Blue cats can be docile, but they do enjoy climbing and jumping. They may need encouragement to play outside but they should enjoy it. Russian Blue cats should be monitored for safety while they are outdoors.
While this breed can undoubtedly benefit from a balance of being indoors and spending time outside, there are still plenty of risks and safety factors that caregivers should consider.
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- This cat stroller on Amazon I recommend for the Russian Blue Cat since it can go pretty much anywhere you need it to while being versatile (Affiliate Link): Click Here.
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Stick around to find out everything you need to know for taking a Russian Blue outdoors, and what measures you should put in place to ensure that your furry feline friend stays protected. Read on for more!
Can Russian Blue Cats Go Outside?
Will they get hurt outside? Are there dangers outside?
There are many risks outdoors, and unfortunately, there is not much that caregivers can do to influence external factors apart from monitoring the environment selected for outdoor time or just keeping their Russian Blue indoors.
Certain dangers that could harm your cat include vehicles that pose the threat of a collision and physical harm, as well as risks posed by foreign cats outside, which may be hostile or territorial. Some cats may be domestic and merely roaming the area, but others may be feral cats that potentially carry illness or diseases. Additionally, there may be problems with other animals like dogs or raccoons they may encounter.
To learn more about whether cats and raccoons will get along and any dangers: Click Here.
The most effective safety precaution here would be to only take your cat outside using a leash and harness, cat backpack, or cat stroller.
Using a leash and harness will allow them to still get some outdoor exercise. To learn more about the safety of cat harnesses: Click Here.
Using a cat backpack will still provide fresh air and good views to the cat. You can learn more about the benefits of cat backpacks in our article: Click Here.
Using a cat stroller is kind of the best of all worlds since the cat can be comfortable, get some air, and have a great view, while saving the backs of the cat owner and still having the option of taking the cat out and keeping her on a harness and leash. Read more about this in our article: Click Here.
Other risk factors include loud sounds that may frighten your cat or harm their sensitive ears, and this breed strongly dislikes noise. Selecting well-maintained parks where cats are allowed is best to ensure safer surroundings and choose time periods where parks are not too noisy (or busy) may be more beneficial for this breed.
Can Russian Blue Cats Live Outside?
Yes, Russian Blue cats can live outside. It’s not advised to keep this furry friend outside entirely. If the area has harsh climates, such as scorching summers or icy winters, there could be risks to your Russian Blue cat’s health.
While the Russian Blue is more resilient in varying weather conditions, this breed enjoys the coziness and tranquility of indoors. It may not be a fan of being outside for prolonged periods of time.
That being said, cats are known to be spectacular hunters. Because of this, they can significantly disrupt local ecosystems by hunting loads of rodents, birds, lizards, etc. Due to this, I think it is wise not to let your Russian Blue cat live outside. To read more about cats and their ability to hunt: Click Here.
Do Russian Blue Cats Like the Cold?
No, Russian Blue cats do not like cold weather, but they can survive in colder temperatures. While the Russian Blue is fonder of warm and cozy areas, they are more adaptable for colder climates due to their dense and warm double coats.
The Russian Blue’s double coat is interesting because even though they are a shorthaired cat, they have this robust double fur coat. This makes them more suitable for colder regions, and more resilient when spending time outdoors in winters. However, they are not huge fans of the cold, and would still long for the warmth and protection that indoor settings provide.
Is it Bad to Let Cats Outside?
No, it is not bad to let cats outside since they can benefit from the enriching experiences and sunlight. However, some people may consider it wrong to let cats outside due to the damaging effect from the hunting, the dangers around cars and other animals, and potential diseases they could encounter.
Cats often flourish with a balanced blend of indoor and outdoor experiences if conditions suit their needs and owners take their safety into account. Allowing them to lounge with fresh air and let their fur coats bask in sunlight may be unbelievably beneficial for them.
There are plenty of ways to ensure that the outdoor area is secure by selecting public spaces that are safe, sheltered, and away from threats like stray animals, harmful substances, and traffic. Additionally, we can keep the cat even safer by using a cat harness / leash, cat backpack, or cat stroller.
This is the cat backpack on Amazon that I recommend for the Russian Blue since it has excellent airflow and will give your cat a great view (Affiliate Link): Click Here.
This is the cat stroller on Amazon that I recommend for the Russian Blue since it can go pretty much anywhere you need it to while being versatile (Affiliate Link): Click Here.
Do Russian Blues need outdoor exercise?
This breed is predisposed to obesity because of their relaxed temperament coupled with their hefty appetites. Encouraging the Russian Blue to partake in any exercise will assist in ensuring that their weight is kept in check and that they benefit from sufficient exercise.
Taking your cat on a walk with a harness and leash could be a nice way for you to keep your cat active. Just be patient because when you take a cat on a walk, your cat will take her time.
Things to Consider if You Let Your Russian Blue Cat Outside
Is My Cat Microchipped?
Sadly, there is always the possibility of this shy and mild companion somehow getting lost while they are outside. They can get frightened and runoff in any direction since this breed is easily frightened by strangers, plus an array of scenarios that owners might never know or understand. While it’s not enjoyable to think about situations like these, planning will make a terrible situation far less daunting.
It’s essential to ensure that your cat has a collar with an up-to-date ID tag on at all times, as this allows identification if they are found by another individual or agency. Microchipping your cat is a fantastic option for additional safety measures, as this will enable you to find them even if the ID collar has somehow become detached.
There are some important things to consider when thinking about cat collars, especially if you wonder if they are cruel for cats. Check out this article to learn more: Click Here.
Are You Leaving Water Out for Them?
When you let your cat outside or go for walks, it’s essential to make sure that your cat is content in terms of their water and refreshment needs. Always bring along clean water and plenty of treats for your furry friend to make sure they are fully hydrated and nourished. This will also help prevent toxicities and illnesses, as cats may eat harmful plants or substances, or drink from tarnished water sources if they feel inclined to do so.
Should You Bring a Russian Blue Cat Inside at Night?
Yes, you should bring a Russian Blue cat inside at night. There are plenty of dangers of leaving your cat outdoors overnight, as even though the Russian Blue has a dense double coat, they may still be susceptible to the elements and other risk factors.
Exposure to harmful factors poses the risk of your cat falling ill, getting into altercations with street animals, or ingesting substances found outside without supervision. The Russian Blue is an intelligent breed but generally quite timid, and such an experience may be incredibly frightening for such a breed.
Should You Bathe a Russian Blue Cat After Going Outside?
Whether or not you bathe the cat after they have been outside will depend on several factors, and the Russian Blue has a fur coat which is short in length which may reduce the amount of matter tracked in from the outside environment.
If they have come into contact with dirt, grime, other animals, unknown substances, or unknown plant matter, it may be a good idea. But, if the experience has been as per usual and they have only come into contact with toys, sidewalks, or a little grass, then regular brushing may be adequate.
Can Russian Blue Cats Be House Cats?
Will They Be Happy If They Only Stay Indoors?
Yes, Russian Blue cats should be happy if they only stay indoors. The Russian Blue tends to enjoy more tranquil and discreet areas; thus, the hustle and bustle of outdoor areas may deter this breed.
Would They Still Like Some Time Outside?
Although cat breeds assist in identifying general traits, every cat is unique in their personality, and your Russian Blue may or may not be as interested in spending time outdoors as opposed to playing in the home.
Coaxing and encouragement may be necessary for getting them outdoors, and climbable objects like small trees and ornaments may be more inviting for this breed.
Can Russian Blue Cats Be Left Alone?
Yes, Russian Blue cats can be left alone. This breed tends to do well in the company of caregivers and when left alone at home. They can generally keep themselves occupied, but investing in toys, puzzle feeders, and activities to entertain their playful and intelligent nature will be beneficial.
Ways to Take a Russian Blue Cat Outside More Often
Even though this breed may be less interested, they would still benefit from spending some time outdoors, even if they are simply accompanying you while you perhaps relax and watch the sunset from your deck or porch, or tend to the garden. It could be a great idea to invite your cat to join you in such activities, since they are generally quite attentive and enjoy spending time with caregivers, participating in whatever activities they are busy with.
Cat Backpacks: Cat backpacks allow cats to gain the overall experience and view of outdoor life without being exposed to environmental conditions. Since the Russian Blue is quite relaxed and passive, they may simply enjoy experiencing the view and overall feel of being outdoors, tagging along on your adventures. This may be a great option if your cat is extremely shy, fearful of strangers, or is generally still warming up to the idea.
Cat Strollers: Cat strollers allow cats to gain the overall experience and view of outdoor life without walking or interacting with the environment. This may be another great option if your cat fears interacting with the outdoor environment or strangers.
Cat Harness and Leashes: Cat harnesses and leashes are beneficial for this breed, as it provides the freedom to explore within boundaries set by the caregiver plus necessary physical activity. This allows caregivers to monitor outdoor activity closely for safety while providing the Russian Blue with the opportunity to exercise.
Conclusion
Taking the Russian Blue cat outdoors can be incredibly beneficial for their overall health, exercise allowance, as well as mental health, and happiness. Although it may take some time to get this gentle and shy breed into the hang of spending time outdoors, they may become major fans of the activity, especially if they are free to climb and jump around.
With some good safety measures, proper training, ground rules, plus lots of love and patience, your Russian Blue could be exploring and lounging around outdoors in no time.
