Siberian Cats: Breed Profile

History: Siberian cats are the national cat of Russia. There are records of this breed in recorded history going back 1000 years. No one is sure exactly how the breed developed, but it is believed that it was originally native to the Siberian forests.

This breed is a late comer to the United States and is still rare outside of Russia. The first Siberian cat to be imported to the United States arrived in 1990. Many Americans have fallen in love with the Siberian breed since then, and breeders always have waiting lists for their kittens. The Siberian cat was accepted by the Cat Fanciers' Association in February 2000 and allowed championship status in February 2006.

Appearance: The Siberian cat is a medium large cat with a heavily muscled body. It is heavily boned with powerful legs and thick neck muscles. Siberian cats have round heads with wide set, rounded ears more towards the side of the head than right on top of the head, and almost round, wide set eyes that slant slightly towards the ears. Eye color is green, green with a gold band, gold, or copper. White or predominately white cats may have blue eyes. This breed has a gently rounded muzzle. The body is round and barrel-like with a slight curve on both the top and bottom of the torso. The legs and tail are medium length.

The coat is medium long and distinctive. It has three thick layers. Siberian cats molt in the spring and sport shorter, thinner coats in the summer. Their coats come in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

The Siberian cat is a late developer not reaching full maturity until five years of age.

Personality: The Siberian cat has a doglike personality. This cat becomes a true member of the family, greeting members at the door and following them around participating in or observing their activities. It is a loud and frequent purrer and makes a chirping noise when greeting people or other pets. Siberian cats get along well with children and other pets.

The Siberian breed is known for its agility, climbing and leaping with abandon while somehow not upsetting anything in its path. They can be very entertaining with their antics, and they love to play!

Care: Like all cats, the Siberian cat needs a continual supply of fresh water, a high quality cat food, and access to a clean litter box. Proper veterinary care and safe places to play and scratch are also important to their well being. The beautiful, long coat of the Siberian should stay clean and neat with a daily brushing. Because of their playful natures, it is important that you provide your Siberian cat with toys, play space, and attention. When they are done playing, they will reward you by curling up in your lap and cuddling.