Siberian

Is a Siberian cat right for you?

The Siberian is a large, agile breed with a dense triple coat that developed naturally over centuries in the forests of Russia. CFA describes it as dog-like, intelligent and devoted. It is playful and curious but generally steady and easygoing. The most common claim about the breed is that it is "suitable for people with allergies"; as you'll see below, that claim needs very careful handling.

Before you adopt

Be realistic about allergies. The main cause of cat allergy is not hair but a protein called Fel d 1. It is found in saliva and skin secretions; as the cat grooms, it spreads onto the coat and becomes airborne when dry. Every cat produces Fel d 1.

What is known about Siberians:

• A 2017 genetic study found several mutations in the Siberian's Fel d 1 genes that were not seen in other cats. But the study included only four Siberians, and the authors state clearly that further work is needed to find out whether these mutations actually reduce allergen production. In the same study one cat had low salivary allergen levels while others had higher levels.
• According to compiled testing data, some Siberians show lower Fel d 1 levels, but roughly half of those tested produce typical allergen levels.
• Cat geneticist Leslie Lyons told Smithsonian magazine that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat, although specific Siberians may trigger less of an allergic response.

The bottom line: the Siberian is not a breed for everyone with allergies; at most, some individuals may cause fewer symptoms in some people. If you have allergies:

1. Talk to your allergist first; for people with severe allergy or asthma the risk is real.
2. Look at the specific cat you're considering, not the breed in general. Spend several long visits with that cat.
3. Ask about allergen testing some breeders offer, but don't treat the result as a guarantee.
4. Don't start with a "we'll give it back if it doesn't work" plan; that means serious stress and loss for the cat.

Ask the breeder for: CFA notes that HCM and PKD can occur in the breed; ask for heart ultrasound and PKD results for the parents, pedigree papers, and a kitten at least 12 weeks old with vaccinations started. Check local microchipping rules (in Turkey, for example, owned cats must be registered in the PETVET system).

Temperament

• Dog-like and devoted: Often follows its people around the house and chooses to stay close.
• Steady: In CFA's words, mostly placid with a bit of mischief. An easygoing, confident cat.
• Purrs rather than yowls: Communicates more with purring and short sounds than loud meowing.
• Agile and playful: Despite its size it climbs and jumps well; the tops of tall cupboards are favourite spots.
• Slow to mature: Sources say full development can take up to five years, so kitten energy lasts a long time.

It usually settles well in homes with children and multiple pets.

Health issues and lifespan

As a naturally developed breed, its general health is considered good. Points to watch:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): Cornell lists the Siberian among breeds predisposed to HCM. It can be silent for a long time; rapid or laboured breathing, open-mouth breathing, lethargy and sudden hind-limb paralysis are emergencies.
• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): CFA notes it can occur in the breed; it has been reported particularly in the colourpoint Neva Masquerade variety. Signs: increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite and weight, vomiting. Diagnosis is by ultrasound.
• Injuries: In a large study comparing breed health, Siberians scored low for overall illness risk but high for injury risk, in keeping with their athletic build. Guard against falls from heights, windows and balconies.
• Hairballs and matting: The dense undercoat can cause hairballs and belly mats, especially at seasonal coat changes.
• Obesity: Extra weight on a big cat can go unnoticed under a thick coat; check by hand.

Popular sources give varying lifespan ranges; we found no reliable breed-specific lifespan study.

Feeding

According to CFA, males weigh about 5.5-8 kg and females 3.5-5.5 kg.

• Kitten and junior (2 months - 1 year): Kitten food, initially 3-4 meals a day. Because the breed develops slowly, don't overfeed to make the kitten look big.
• Young adult (1-5 years): Still building muscle; high-protein, meat-based complete food. Adjust amounts to body condition.
• Neutered adult: Lower energy needs; weigh the food.
• Senior (8+ years): Yearly blood and urine tests and heart check.

For kidney health, use wet food and a drinking fountain. If hairballs are frequent, ask your vet about fibre support.

Grooming and coat

According to CFA, the Siberian has a triple coat that thickens in winter and becomes shorter in summer. Grooming needs vary enormously: some need weekly sessions to prevent mats, while others go for weeks without one.

• Comb at least once a week with a wide-toothed metal comb; daily during the spring shed.
• Belly, armpits and behind the ears are the most mat-prone areas.
• Baths are rarely needed; if you bathe, dry the undercoat completely.
• Nails every 2-3 weeks, teeth several times a week.
• In hot summers, remove dead undercoat with regular combing rather than shaving; ask your vet before deciding on a shave.

Living space and enrichment

1. A sturdy, tall cat tree. Wide-based models that can be fixed to the wall for a big, agile cat.
2. Daily hunting play. Two 15-minute sessions a day; more for high-energy youngsters.
3. Window and balcony netting. An athletic, bold breed; essential against falls.
4. Food puzzles and fetch games. Mental work for a clever, dog-like cat.
5. A cool spot. In summer, tiled floors, shade, a cool room and several water bowls.

History

The Siberian is an old cat population that developed naturally in Russia's forested regions, with references traced back to Slavic folktales of the 10th century. CFA calls it Russia's national cat. The harsh climate shaped its dense triple coat and powerful body.

Formal breeding began in the final years of the Soviet Union. In 1987 a pair taken from St. Petersburg to Berlin became one of the foundations of registered breeding in Europe. The breed was recognised by WCF in 1991, TICA in 1996 and FIFe in 1997. The first Siberians reached the United States in 1990, and CFA granted championship status in the 2000s.

Colourpoint individuals are known as Neva Masquerade; some registries include them within the Siberian, others register them separately.