Russian Blue vs Korat Cat: Differences, Personality & Cost

Key Takeaways

• Russian Blue cats have plush double coats with silver-tipped guard hairs creating a shimmering effect, while Korat cats feature single-layer coats with distinctive silver-blue coloring that appears heart-shaped when viewed from above.
• Korat cats are highly affectionate and form intense bonds with their families, often following owners room to room, whereas Russian Blues tend to be more reserved with strangers but equally devoted to their chosen family members.
• Russian Blues typically cost between $1,000 to $1,500 from reputable breeders, while Korats are rarer and often command prices from $1,200 to $2,000 or more depending on lineage and availability.
• Both breeds shed minimally compared to other cats and produce slightly lower allergen levels, though neither is truly hypoallergenic.
• Russian Blues adapt well to quieter households and appreciate routine, while Korats thrive in active environments where they receive constant attention and interaction.

Two Ancient Breeds with Rich Histories

The origins of the Russian Blue is not really established, though the breed is believed to have developed naturally in the Archangel Isles of northern Russia. These cats arrived in England and Northern Europe via ship in the 1860s, where they were originally called Archangel cats. Their dense coats evolved as protection against Russia's harsh climate.

The Korat's history is far more documented. Originating from the Cao Nguyen Khorat Plateau in Thailand, these cats appear in the ancient Thai manuscript "Tamra Maew" (Cat Book Poems), dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period (1351–1767). In their homeland, Korats are considered symbols of good fortune and prosperity, traditionally given as gifts rather than sold.

Distinguishing Physical Characteristics

Both breeds feature distinctive silver-blue coats, though the Russian Blue's double coat differs from the Korat's single-layer fur.

Build & Structure

The Russian Blue presents a fine-boned, elegant appearance with a modified wedge-shaped head and medium build. Weighing between 7 to 12 pounds, these cats possess long, graceful legs and a muscular yet refined body structure. Their overall silhouette conveys both athleticism and sophistication.

Korat cats are notably more compact and muscular despite their smaller size. Weighing 6 to 10 pounds, they display a semi-cobby body type with a broad chest and substantial bone structure. Their most distinctive feature is their heart-shaped face, visible when looking at them head-on, with prominent cheekbones that create this unique contour.

Coat Characteristics

A plush, dense double coat with silver-tipped guard hairs that create an iridescent, shimmering appearance crown the Russian Blue in glory. The texture is exceptionally soft and stands away from the body, often compared to seal fur. Each hair shaft has a silver tip, giving the coat its characteristic sparkle in natural light.

Despite having a similar color, Korat coats differ significantly. They have a single-layer coat that lies close to the body with a glossy, smooth texture. The color is a rich silver-blue that appears lighter at the roots, creating depth. The coat lacks the plush density of the Russian Blue but possesses its own luminous quality.

Facial Features & Eye Color

Russian Blues have wedge-shaped faces with prominent whisker pads that create a subtle smile. Their large, rounded, vivid green eyes develop gradually—kittens are born with blue eyes that transition through yellow before reaching the signature emerald green by around four months of age.

Korats feature those distinctive heart-shaped faces with large, luminous eyes that appear oversized for their face. Their eyes are a striking peridot or amber-green, and the breed standard specifically requires this green coloration. The eyes are set wide apart and slightly slanted, contributing to their alert, expressive appearance.

Temperament: Understanding Their Personalities

Gentle and intelligent by nature, the Russian Blue is known for reserved behavior around strangers. These cats form deep attachments to their family members but typically select one or two favorite people. They appreciate routine and predictability, often becoming distressed by changes in their environment. 

Russian Blues are moderately playful and enjoy interactive toys but are equally content observing from a comfortable perch. They're relatively quiet cats, using soft vocalizations only when necessary.

Intensely social and demanding involvement in family activities, Korat cats are highly intelligent and can be strong-willed, often determining how interactions should proceed. These cats are remarkably perceptive to their owner's emotions and provide genuine comfort during difficult times. 

Korats are active and playful throughout their lives, enjoying puzzle toys and games that challenge their minds. They can be quite vocal, using chirps, trills, and meows to communicate their needs and opinions.

Care & Maintenance Requirements

Regular brushing maintains coat health, with Russian Blues needing more frequent grooming during seasonal shedding periods.

Grooming Needs

Weekly brushing is essential for Russian Blues to remove loose undercoats and maintain their coat's lustrous appearance. During seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall, increase brushing to two or three times weekly. Their dense coat benefits from a metal comb followed by a soft bristle brush to distribute natural oils. Bathing is rarely necessary; typically only if the cat gets into something messy.

Lower maintenance grooming makes Korat cats easier to care for due to their single coat. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt is sufficient to remove loose hair and maintain shine. Their coat naturally stays clean, requiring bathing only occasionally. Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear cleaning apply to both breeds.

Environmental Needs

A calm, stable environment with consistent routines suits Russian Blues best. They benefit from vertical spaces like cat trees but don't require extensive climbing structures. These cats are well-suited to apartment living and adapt to quieter households.

More environmental enrichment is necessary for Korats due to their higher energy and intelligence. Provide multiple interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and climbing opportunities. They thrive with regular play sessions and mental stimulation. Korats tolerate apartment living but need dedicated playtime to prevent boredom-related behaviors.

Nutritional Requirements

Both breeds benefit from high-quality, protein-rich diets formulated for their life stage. Russian Blues can be prone to weight gain if overfed, so portion control and measured feeding are important. Look for foods with moderate fat content and quality animal protein sources.

Korats maintain their muscular build well and typically self-regulate food intake better than Russian Blues. However, they still require balanced nutrition with adequate taurine for heart health. Both breeds should have constant access to fresh water, and wet food can be incorporated to increase hydration.

Veterinary-formulated supplements can provide additional support for both breeds but always consult your veterinarian before introducing supplements to ensure they're appropriate for your cat's specific needs and don't interact with any existing health conditions.

Cost Considerations

Purchase Price Differences

Russian Blue cats typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 from reputable breeders, with show-quality cats reaching $2,000 or more. Their relative availability in North America and Europe keeps prices moderate.

Korat cats are considerably rarer outside Thailand, commanding premium prices of $1,200 to $2,000 for pet-quality cats, with show-quality specimens reaching $2,500 or higher. Limited breeder availability and strict breeding programs contribute to these increased costs, and waitlists are common.

Ongoing Expenses

Beyond the purchase price, expect initial setup costs of $300 to $600 for supplies including litter boxes, carriers, toys, and grooming tools. First-year veterinary expenses may add $200 to $400 for examinations, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering.

Annual costs include quality food, routine veterinary care, pet insurance, and supplies. Russian Blues may require weight management formulas, while Korats need more interactive enrichment toys.

Total lifetime costs over 15–20 years can reach $15,000 to $30,000 or more per cat when accounting for all expenses and potential medical emergencies.

Russian Blue vs Korat: Side-by-Side Comparison

Choosing Between Russian Blue & Korat Cats

Choosing between these breeds depends on matching your lifestyle to their distinct personality traits and care requirements.

Your lifestyle and personality should guide your decision between these beautiful breeds. Russian Blues excel in households that value tranquility and predictability. If you work from home, live alone or with a small family, and prefer a cat that provides companionship without constant demands for attention, the Russian Blue's gentle nature aligns perfectly. They're ideal for first-time cat owners seeking a low-maintenance, affectionate companion.

Korats suit active households ready to provide substantial daily interaction. If you're home frequently, enjoy engaging play sessions, and want a cat that participates actively in family life, the Korat's intense personality will thrive. These cats do best with experienced cat owners who understand feline behavior and can provide the mental stimulation Korats require.

Cost differences exist beyond the initial purchase price. Russian Blues, being more common, have somewhat lower acquisition costs and wider breeder availability. Korats command premium prices due to their rarity outside Thailand, and finding reputable breeders may require patience and travel.

Both breeds form profound bonds with their families and can suffer from prolonged isolation. If your schedule includes frequent travel or long work hours without other household members present, consider whether either breed suits your situation or if adopting two cats for companionship makes sense.

Visit breeders in person to observe adult cats and assess temperament. Reputable breeders welcome questions, provide health certifications, and demonstrate transparent breeding practices. Avoid breeders who are unable to provide documentation or unwilling to show you where cats are raised.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Russian Blue & Korat cats live together?

Yes, Russian Blues and Korats can coexist successfully with proper introductions. The Russian Blue's calmer demeanor often complements the Korat's more assertive personality. 

However, the Korat's high energy and social demands may occasionally overwhelm a Russian Blue who prefers peace. Ensure each cat has separate resources and safe spaces. Monitor early interactions to ensure compatibility.

Are Russian Blue & Korat cats suitable for families with children?

Both breeds can adapt to family life, though with different considerations. Russian Blues tolerate children best when kids understand boundaries and provide gentle interaction. They may retreat from boisterous play rather than engage. 

Korats often enjoy active play with respectful children and participate enthusiastically in family activities. Teach children appropriate handling and respect for each cat's individual temperament.

Do Russian Blue & Korat cats require special diets?

Neither breed requires specialized food formulations, though Russian Blues benefit from weight management formulas if prone to overeating. Both thrive on high-quality, protein-rich diets appropriate for their life stage. Some Russian Blues may need urinary health support formulas if predisposed to bladder issues. 

Consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations based on your cat's specific health needs.

How do I find a reputable breeder for these breeds?

Start with breed-specific organizations like The Russian Blue Fanciers or The International Cat Association for breeder referrals. Reputable breeders provide health guarantees, genetic testing results, vaccination records, and allow facility visits. 

They interview potential buyers, limit breeding frequency, and remain available for lifetime support. Avoid breeders offering multiple breeds, lacking documentation, or pushing immediate sales. For Korats especially, expect waitlists due to the breed's rarity.

What are the ongoing costs of owning Russian Blue or Korat cats?

Beyond the initial purchase price, budget for annual veterinary care ($200–$400), quality food ($300–$600 annually), litter and supplies ($150–$300), and pet insurance or emergency fund ($300–$600 yearly). 

Russian Blues may incur additional costs for weight management or urinary health care. Korats might need more enrichment toys and interactive items. Both breeds' long lifespans mean committing to 15–20 years of expenses.

*Note: Prices mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on location, breeder reputation, pedigree, and availability. Always confirm current pricing directly with the seller or breeder before making a purchase.