Are you familiar with the Siberian cat? If not, it’s time to learn about these fantastic felines! In Russian, “Ya tebya lyublyu” translates to “I love you,” and you’ll want to keep this phrase in mind when meeting your first Siberian cat. These cats possess strength, intelligence, and a gentle nature that makes them an ideal fit for any household, even those with dogs!
Siberian cats are also known as Siberian Forest cats or Moscow Longhairs. They are a semi-longhair breed that typically weighs between 15 to 20 pounds for males and slightly less for females. Their fur is thick, shiny, and their round eyes are filled with curiosity. As a landrace breed, they have evolved over time to survive the harsh winters of Russia.
These cats have remarkable personalities and are easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for homes with children and other pets. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet one of these amazing cats!
Siberian cats have a fascinating history dating back more than a thousand years to the dense Siberian forests. These gorgeous felines are believed to be the ancestors of all modern longhair cats, although their early stages are not well documented. It is thought that they were domesticated by seeking refuge in farms, shops and monasteries to escape the biting winters of Siberia. Their hunting skills were highly valued by their first pet owners, who relied on them to keep rodents away.
It is unclear when Siberian cats were first brought to the UK by Russian immigrants, but they made their debut in Harrison Weir’s late 19th-century book Our Cats and All About Them. In the book, he described them as participants in early cat shows. In contrast, it wasn’t until 1990 that Siberian cats were introduced to the US. Despite their high import costs, Elizabeth Terrell, an enthusiast from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, negotiated an exchange of four of her Himalayans for one male and two female Siberian cats (Kaliostro Vasenjkovich, Ofelia Romanova, and Naina Romanova).
Although Siberian cats are growing in popularity, they remain relatively rare in the US based on their rising demand.
The Siberian cat breed possesses a unique and distinctive set of qualities that sets them apart from other cat breeds. They have a sturdy and agile physique, with powerful hind legs that allow them to leap and play like professional athletes. Their friendly expression is accentuated by their rounded heads, large paws, and distinctive round eyes that come in green or gold. However, their most remarkable trait is their three-layered coat that consists of coarse, straight guard hairs, thin and wavy awn hairs, and a downy undercoat. These cats come in different colors and patterns such as solid, tortoiseshell, and color point.
Siberian cats are intelligent and active problem solvers who enjoy climbing, leaping, and playing with puzzle toys. They are not clingy but are devoted companions who patiently await cuddles. These cats are not easily disturbed by noise or strangers and can coexist with children, dogs, and other pets with proper introduction. As a pet parent to a Siberian cat, you can expect to have a fun-loving and affectionate companion around you.
Looking after your Siberian Cat
Siberian cats are known for their fluffy, cute appearance, but you might think they need a lot of grooming. However, this is not the case. Despite having a triple-layered coat, Siberians have a glossy fur that only requires brushing once or twice a week to prevent tangling and matting. They shed heavily at the end of winter and have lighter shedding in the summer, so it is best to brush them daily during these times.
It is recommended that you trim your cat’s nails once a week and check their ears for any redness or unpleasant smells. If there is any build-up, clean it gently with a damp cotton ball and consult your veterinarian if it indicates an ear infection. You should also brush your feline friend’s teeth a few times a week.
Are Siberian Cats Hypoallergenic?
Some people think that Siberian cats are hypoallergenic and do not cause allergic reactions. While Siberians produce less protein (Fel d1), which causes allergies, even small amounts can trigger allergic reactions. They also produce dander, which can irritate allergies.
Tips for Special Siberian Care
Siberian cats are not clingy, but they enjoy being around other cats. Therefore, if you are thinking of adopting one, consider adopting two. They thrive when they have a feline companion.
Siberians are known for their daredevil antics, but you need to protect them from potential dangers. Avoid displaying glass ornaments or fragile objects on high shelves and invest in a ceiling-height cat tree to keep your furry friend entertained.
Siberian felines are considered healthy due to their natural breeding, but they may be susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a prevalent cardiac ailment in cats that leads to the thickening of their heart muscles and can result in heart failure. It is advisable to have your Siberian cat screened for this condition by a vet. These cats achieve reproduction maturity early and have the potential to produce larger litters, so it is suggested to have them spayed or neutered as soon as possible to avoid unwanted litters.
Siberian cats are renowned for their adorable personalities and love for adventure, and there are numerous intriguing facts about them. They are Russia’s national cat, and their fur shedding is driven by changes in daylight rather than temperature. In the movie Nine Lives, Kevin Spacey portrayed a character whose mind was trapped inside his daughter’s Siberian feline. These cats take parenting seriously, with mother cats typically mating with only one male as the dads play an active role in caring for their kittens. Furthermore, Siberian cats boast of water-repellent coats and love water, so be ready to have them try and join you in the shower!
Picking a name for your Siberian cat can be tough, especially because they have quite the personality. One idea to make it easier is to name them after notable Siberian rivers and lakes like Lena, Amur, Obie (after the River Ob), Yenisei, or Baikal. Alternatively, you could consider naming them after Elizabeth Terrel, who brought Siberian cats to the U.S., or Naina, one of her initial Siberian cats. Another option is to choose names inspired by adventurous explorers with the same spirit as the Siberian, such as Magellan, Lewis, Boone, Leif, or Yuri. Regardless of the name you pick, it’s important to safeguard your four-legged companion from top to bottom. So why not request an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance quote today?
