Let's talk Siberian cats
The Siberian cat’s thick and lustrous coat is not just for show – although it is magnificent. Over the centuries, this ancient breed developed a triple-layer insulating and waterproof fur coat, ideal for withstanding the harsh climate of its native Siberia. If their ancestors evolved for the rugged, outdoor life, these days, Siberians certainly appreciate more comfortable conditions – these affectionate cats can be playful but are mostly quite content curled up in the warm, near their owners, always ready for a snuggle.Official name: Siberian
Other names: Neva Masquerade (pointed variety) Siberian Forest Cat
Origins: Russia
Shedding level |
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Warm weather? | |
Physical activity needs (high, low, medium) | Low | Kid-friendly?* | |
Compatibility with other pets |
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs).
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
Baby cat | Birth to 4 months |
Growing kitten | 4 to 12 months |
Adult | 1 to 7 years |
Mature | 7 to 12 years |
Senior | From 12 years |
Extravagant fur coats, wide round eyes, fluffy ears and impressive brush-like tails
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Siberian cats
1. From Russia with gloves
Actually gloves might be the only thing missing from the Siberian’s winter wardrobe. This warm-hearted cat’s weather-proof clothing is impressive: a triple-layer, water-repellent coat, a full ruff, fluffy breeches and a fox-like bushy tail. Tufted paw pads complete the Siberian’s outdoor equipment, there to help them walk across the snowy landscape before they got to you.
2. Lynx-tipped Neva Masquerade
No, it’s not a secret code, but a way of describing a Siberian cat with distinctive markings and tufty ears. The alternative name Neva Masquerade is used for Siberians with darker fur on their extremities (also known as pointed). And if your cat has little tufts of hair on the tips of their ears then they have something in common with their bigger, wilder (distant) cousin, the lynx. These tufts, which help keep cats’ ears clear of dirt, are known as Lynx Tips.
History of the breed
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Siberian cats
1. Tail
Thick bushy tail resembling a fox’s brush.
2. Ears
Medium-sized ears, with longer hair at the base and sometimes tufts at the ends.
3. Coat
Fluffy, medium-length weatherproof fur in various colours.
Gregarious Siberians get on well with other animals and children too
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Siberian
Heart trouble
Siberians are generally healthy cats but the breed is among those prone to a condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a form of heart disease that causes the heart muscle to enlarge, decreasing its efficiency. Always try to buy from a reputable breeder who will take care to only breed from disease-free parents.
Watch the pounds
Siberians are a naturally big breed and may be at risk of putting on too much weight, which can lead to health problems. Make sure your cat eats the right food and in the right quantities to ensure they stay in the best of health. Regular check-ups with your vet are always a good idea.
Siberians are playful catsand appreciate the chance to run and jump or chase a toy
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Caring for your Siberian
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Keeping that wonderfully thick Siberian coat in good condition doesn’t take as much effort as you might expect: a brush or comb twice a week should ensure it stays tangle free. During shedding season, you may need to increase the frequency. Regular ear and teeth cleaning (daily if possible) and nail trimming are important too, and your cat needs to have access to a scratching post to allow them to fulfil their instinctive need to scratch. Siberians are playful cats and appreciate the chance to run and jump or chase a toy. If you have the patience, intelligent Siberian cats can easily master obedience commands and tricks – good for their mental stimulation.
All about Siberian cats
Not really – Siberians’ coats may be thick and impressive but they only need a quick brush every few days to stay in good, knot-free condition. In shedding season (twice a year) expect to do a little more brushing and probably a LOT more vacuuming.
No cats can be considered truly hypoallergenic. However, anecdotal evidence suggests the Siberian breed may not elicit such strong reactions in people with allergies as other breeds. That may be because Siberians have lower levels of the allergy-causing protein in their saliva and skin than other cats – but scientists are still researching the phenomenon.
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Read more on this topic
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Common cat digestive problems
Common skin conditions in cats
Feeding your cat after surgery to support recovery
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/