The Siberian cat is a kind of middle-length-haired domestic cat that descends from Siberia, Russia. Most likely it is a crossbreed of European cats and the wild cats in the woods of Siberia. This breed appeared naturally and it is distinguished with sound health and adaptable character.
Appearance
This cat can reach 6 – 15 kg of weight for the males and 3.5-8 kg for females. It demonstrates power and vigour which are in contrast with its lovable mouth.
The whole body leaves the impression of plumpness which is not due to overweight but to its characteristic skeleton construction. It has long, thick fur, which is wet-proof and very thick underhair.
The head has the form of trapezium with round lines, average to big, in harmony with the body. The eyes are big, almost round and they could be green as well as yellow-brown or orange. The ears are average in size, with rounded edges and slightly inclined forward and it is desirable that they have a tuft of hair like the lynx. The limbs are of average length, the back ones are longer than the front.
The paws are big, round with hair between the dactyls. The tail is thick with, not pointed but cylindrical and extremely fluffy. Some kinds have even a characteristic mane. The maturity is relatively late, hardly at the age of 5, which is typical of the bigger breeds of cats and of those descended naturally.
The colouring is variable – red, cream-coloured, black and brown with or without spots. The traditional colouring is preferred, i.e. the so called tabby as well as a variety of striped, spotted and marble.
Character
It is calm, an excellent hunter which likes climbing. The Siberian cat is sensitive and kind to people with a sense of affiliation and loyalty; it keeps in good terms with the dogs since this cat itself is very faithful – just like a dog is; notably brave, proud and with the feeling of its own dignity but at the same time greatly devoted to its householders. This cat lives your life – if you are upset it cuddles with you and soothes you murmuring; were you in good mood, it lives through it stronger than you.
It has long ago been noticed that the Siberian cat creates positive aura in the home because it brings the pure natural energy and harmony of the Siberian taiga. It is open to training when it is being made tenderly and without any violence. A cat of this breed is able to learn its name and respond to it. They could learn to perform various amusing tricks. The Siberian is curious and loves imitating. As a whole it is quiet and good-natured.
The Siberian cat is tender, loving and very sociable. It likes being among people so being a part of any domestic activity is its habit. The Siberian is willing to meet guests at the front door. Not get the attention she needs makes her sad and even depressed. Till the end of its life she can be childishly playful and curious. Thanks to its keen mind and well developed muscles, the Siberians are wonderful mice hunters but without having any activity or challenges, they may turn into bored and naughty animals.
The Siberian cat is not afraid of water unless it has a serious reason for that. It enjoys playing with water, splatter and even throw its toys in water.
Hypo-allergenic
The breed is particularly popular among people who are susceptible to cats. In 80% of the Siberians the allergen Fel-d1, the one that causes a number of respiratory problems, is in very small amounts and does not cause reactions.
Care
The thick, long fur must be brushed regularly with a proper brush in order to get rid of the dead and fallen hair. This is recommended to be done twice a week or else, some felt balls of fur could appear.
In autumn and spring it moults so in these periods it should be cleaned more often. As its fur is thick, it is recommended to have baths so the water could wash most of the unnecessary hairs.
With regard to avoid dental problems, the cat’s teeth must be brushed once a week. It is also useful to be fed with food and to be given toys which support the good mouth hygiene.
The cat’s toilet must be changed regularly and be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. Each week its ears and eyes should be checked whether they are clean, healthy and without any symptoms of inflammation. To keep the cat in healthy condition it is not recommended to take it outside because it may get fleas or some other contagious diseases, it may be harmed or be stolen.
Health problems and length of life
A distinctive feature, contributed to the popularity of the breed is the one that the Siberian cat is thought to be hypo-allergic, which is to say that there is a minimum chance this cat to cause or stimulate some kind of allergy at its owners. The only health problem, registered to be more often met with this breed, is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is a heart disease in which the heart muscles become bigger. It may be seen in different kinds of pedigreed or unpedigreed and the Siberians are not an exception. The average length of life is 11 to 15 years or more.