Pixie-Bob vs Russian Blue

Which cat breed is right for you?

Pixie-Bob

Size
8–17 lbs
Lifespan
13–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Social Bold Active

Russian Blue

Size
7–12 lbs
Lifespan
15–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Quiet Gentle Shy Loyal

About the Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob was developed in the Pacific Northwest of the United States beginning in 1985, bred to resemble the North American coastal bobcat. This large, muscular cat weighs 8–17 pounds — with males often tipping the scales on the higher end — and features a broad, pear-shaped head, hooded eyes, and a naturally short or bobbed tail ranging from two to six inches. Their coat is brown spotted tabby, either short or longhaired, with heavy ticking and a woolly texture.

Temperament & Personality

Pixie-Bobs are known for their devoted, dog-like personalities — they follow their owners everywhere, learn to walk on a leash, and some will even play fetch. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle and patient, making them excellent family cats. They tend to chirp and chatter rather than meow and are generally quieter than many breeds.

Pros

  • Wild, bobcat-like appearance with a gentle, domestic temperament
  • Dog-like loyalty — follows owners, learns commands, walks on a leash
  • Polydactylism is common and accepted in the breed, adding to their unique charm
  • Calm and patient with children and other household pets

Cons

  • Large size and high food requirements increase ownership costs
  • Some lines carry hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk
  • Can be territorial with unfamiliar cats introduced into the home
  • Thick coat — especially the longhaired variety — sheds heavily and needs regular brushing

Looking for a gentle giant with a wild side? Find Pixie-Bob cats ready for adoption on Puplister and bring home your own little bobcat.

About the Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a naturally occurring breed believed to have originated in the port city of Arkhangelsk (Archangel) in northern Russia, arriving in Europe aboard trade ships in the 1860s. This medium-sized cat weighs 7–12 pounds and is renowned for its dense, plush double coat of uniform blue-gray with silver-tipped guard hairs that give it a luminous shimmer. Its vivid emerald-green eyes, wedge-shaped head, and enigmatic "Mona Lisa smile" complete an unmistakably elegant look.

Temperament & Personality

Russian Blues are gentle, reserved cats that are intensely loyal to their families yet cautious around strangers. They are creatures of habit who thrive on routine — eating at the same time, playing in the same spots, and sleeping in their preferred perch. Once bonded, they are affectionate and playful, often fetching toys and entertaining themselves with quiet grace.

Pros

  • Produces lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen — better tolerated by some allergy sufferers
  • Dense double coat is low-shedding and virtually maintenance-free
  • Quiet and well-mannered — rarely destructive or excessively vocal
  • Long-lived breed with few genetic health issues — many reach 15–20 years

Cons

  • Shy and reserved with strangers — may hide during gatherings or parties
  • Sensitive to change — can become stressed by moves, new pets, or schedule disruptions
  • Prone to overeating and weight gain if food is left out freely
  • Can be slow to warm up to new family members or housemates

Charmed by those emerald eyes and silver-tipped fur? Find Russian Blue cats ready for their forever homes on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

0

Pixie-Bobs

9

Russian Blues

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Pixie-Bob and a Russian Blue?
The Pixie-Bob is 8–17 lbs sized while the Russian Blue is 7–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–17 lbs vs 7–12 lbs), lifespan (13–15 years vs 15–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Pixie-Bob or Russian Blue?
Pixie-Bob is generally good with kids. Russian Blue is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Pixie-Bob or Russian Blue?
The Pixie-Bob has a lifespan of 13–15 years while the Russian Blue has a lifespan of 15–20 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Cats