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What is a Siberian Cat?

Sheri Cyprus
Sheri Cyprus

The Siberian cat is a medium to long-haired breed of cat native to Russia. It's also called the Russian Siberian Cat or the Russian Forest Cat, and is Russia's national cat. The Siberian breed is at least 100 years old, but it wasn't imported to the United States until 1990 and is still fairly rare in America.

The Siberian cat developed naturally in Russia and was not developed as a domestic breed for many years. Keeping pets in Russia was not something that was commonly done due to a lack of enough food and housing available for people. There are records of Siberian cats participating in the first cat show held in the 1700s in England.

Siberian cats are native to Russia.
Siberian cats are native to Russia.

The overall shape of the Siberian cat is rounder than either the Norwegian Forest Cat or the Maine Coon Cat. The Siberian's eyes and head are also more rounded and its tail is also shorter than that of the other two breeds. Many Siberian cats have yellow-green eyes although many other eye colors are possible.

The coloring of the Siberian cat varies widely from cream to black and everything in between. Points, stripes and tortoiseshell markings are all common to this breed as well. The Siberian cat is unique in that it has a triple coat, probably due to a response to the weather conditions in Siberia. An extra portion of fur grows around the cat's neck in winter. The Siberian cat's coat is also thicker in the winter and less dense in the summer.

The Siberian cat is unique in that it has a triple coat, probably due to a response to the weather conditions in Siberia.
The Siberian cat is unique in that it has a triple coat, probably due to a response to the weather conditions in Siberia.

The Siberian cat is considered hypoallergenic, but those with more severe allergies may still be allergic and should get an allergy test and spend time with Siberians before getting one as a pet. However, Siberian cats lack dander. They also have no Fel d 1 allergen in their saliva, so when they clean their coats they don't cover their coat with the allergen as most cats do.

The Siberian cat is considered a very healthy breed and they have no genetic health problems as many cat breeds have. Siberian cats are known to be very agile and many like to jump and leap. They are indoor cats and often like to follow their human companions through every room in the house. Siberian cats are often compared to dogs in their loyalty and may be quite content as lap cats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Siberian cat and where does it originate from?

The Siberian cat is a natural breed known for its long, thick, water-resistant fur and robust build. Originating from Russia, these cats are well-adapted to cold climates and have a history that dates back to at least a thousand years. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions.

Are Siberian cats hypoallergenic and suitable for people with allergies?

While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, Siberian cats are often considered more suitable for allergy sufferers. They produce lower levels of Fel d 1, a common allergen found in cat saliva. According to studies, this trait may cause fewer allergic reactions, but individual sensitivities vary, so spending time with a Siberian cat before adopting is advisable.

What is the typical personality of a Siberian cat?

Siberian cats are known for their friendly and playful disposition. They are often described as dog-like in their loyalty and enjoy being close to their human companions. Siberians are intelligent, curious, and have a knack for problem-solving, which makes interactive play and puzzle toys ideal for keeping them entertained.

How much grooming do Siberian cats require?

Despite their long, dense coats, Siberian cats require relatively moderate grooming. Their fur is less prone to matting compared to other long-haired breeds. A weekly brushing is typically sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. During shedding season, more frequent grooming may be necessary to manage loose hair.

What is the average lifespan of a Siberian cat, and are they prone to any specific health issues?

Siberian cats are generally healthy with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are a hardy breed but can be predisposed to certain health issues like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hereditary polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing from reputable breeders can help ensure a healthy life.

How active are Siberian cats, and what kind of environment do they thrive in?

Siberian cats are active and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can climb, explore, and engage with their owners. Access to cat trees, perches, and interactive toys can help satisfy their physical and intellectual needs, making them well-suited for most living situations, including family homes.

Discussion Comments

GrumpyGuppy

Up until the 1980’s, the number of Siberian cats that were owned was very low. Prior to then, the former Soviet Union discouraged people from keeping any kind of pet due to shortages of food and housing. Owning a pet became a status symbol that only the wealthy were allowed. In 1987, the restriction on house pets was lifted. Then, organizations and clubs were developed to promote standards for this beautiful cat and give him his own breed.

After the Cold War, the Siberians made their way to the United States. In the beginning, they were traded for Himalayan cats. A woman named Elizabeth Terrell was said to be the first proud owner of Siberian kittens in the United States. She went to great lengths to promote the breed.

chrisinbama

It has been said that the Siberian cat came to be when the Russian people who were exiled to Siberia, brought their cats with them. The cats then bred with the cats in Siberia where the temperature was bitter and very unforgiving. After a while, this breed mixture started getting bigger and had long, dense coats on them. Eventually, these traits led to the new breed and, through natural selection, the Siberian Cat came to be.

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    • Siberian cats are native to Russia.
      By: Iryna Volina
      Siberian cats are native to Russia.
    • The Siberian cat is unique in that it has a triple coat, probably due to a response to the weather conditions in Siberia.
      By: simanovskiy
      The Siberian cat is unique in that it has a triple coat, probably due to a response to the weather conditions in Siberia.