When considering a blue cat, the question of whether a long-haired or short-haired coat is better often arises, along with the price difference. Short-haired blue cats are generally favored for their ease of grooming, while long-haired varieties are often admired for their more luxurious appearance. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference.
The presence of long hair in a blue cat can sometimes indicate a less pure lineage or a genetic throwback. Typically, short-haired blue cats tend to be more expensive due to their adherence to breed standards, while long-haired blue cats are often more affordable.
Most blue cat breeds, such as the British Shorthair and Russian Blue, naturally have short coats. If a blue cat has long hair, it could suggest that it is not a purebred or that it has a recessive gene expressing long hair. Generally, long-haired cats are considered a different breed altogether, which can influence pricing. Specifically regarding blue cats, long-haired blue cats are often seen as less purebred than their short-haired counterparts, thus impacting their price and usually making them less expensive.
How to Determine a Blue Cat's Quality
1. British Shorthair blue cats should have a distinctive round face, often described as a 'dumpling face,' and a broad, flat face with wide-set, gold-colored eyes. They are also characterized by a robust build with well-developed muscles, a short and thick neck that blends seamlessly into broad shoulders. The head is round and wide, with the ears being noticeably close together.
2. British Shorthair blue cats should have a short, dense, and plush coat that feels resilient. Their tails should be about two-thirds of their body length, thicker at the base, and tapering to a rounded tip. If you see a blue cat with a pointed face, slender limbs, and emerald-green eyes, it is more likely a Russian Blue than a British Shorthair.
When selecting a blue cat, it's crucial to consider these breed-specific traits to ensure the cat meets the desired standards and to be mindful of the implications of long or short hair on price and lineage. Understanding these differences ensures that you make an informed decision when adding a blue cat to your family.