Loading...
preeders.com Sign in Contact us

Siberian

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of cat siberian!

Here, you will find all the useful information about siberian. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Siberian breed of cat is a feline breed originating from Russia, specifically from the regions of Siberia and the Urals. It is known for its robustness, natural beauty, and affectionate nature. The history of the Siberian dates back several centuries and is closely tied to the culture and daily life of the Russian people. It was first described by Brehms Tierleben in 1925.

The exact origin of the Siberian remains shrouded in mystery, but this giant feline certainly stems from the crossbreeding of domestic cats and wild cats from the Ural Mountains and the central Siberian plateau. They were traditionally bred by Russian peasants for their skill in hunting rodents and adapting to harsh weather conditions. Over time, the characteristics of the Siberian developed, including its thick, water-resistant fur and friendly, sociable temperament.

The creation of the Siberian breed as we know it today is often attributed to a Russian breeder named Elena Krasnova. In the 1980s, she began collecting and breeding semi-longhaired cats with the goal of preserving the natural beauty and unique traits of Siberian cats. Thanks to her efforts and those of other dedicated breeders, the Siberian breed began to gain popularity in Russia.

Its introduction to Europe dates back to the 1990s, when German cat breeders Hans and Betti Schulz imported the first specimens and developed the breed in the West. Later, Elizabeth Terrel and David Boehm took up the task of popularizing the breed in the United States.

The ancestors of the Siberian are the indigenous domestic cats of Siberia, which over centuries acquired the distinct traits that characterize them today. Their double-layered coat, thick fur, wide paws, and expressive eyes make the Siberian a living work of art perfectly adapted to the conditions of its original habitat.

Its morphology is impressive and it undoubtedly belongs to the large cats, possibly the largest domestic cats in the world, with a muscular and well-proportioned body. Its fur is dense and water-resistant, with an insulating undercoat that protects it from extreme temperatures. The coat colors of the Siberian cat vary widely and can include a wide range of patterns and shades, from classic tabby to solid colors and pointed patterns.

The Siberian cat is not only known for its outer beauty but also for its loving and sociable nature. It is an intelligent and curious cat that generally gets along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. It is known for its warm and affectionate behavior towards its family and is often described as "dog-like" due to its attachment to its owners.

Regarding weight and size specifications, the Siberian cat exhibits some variation depending on gender and lineage. On average, an adult Siberian cat weighs between 4.5 and 9 kg (10 to 20 lb) and measures about 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches) at the shoulder.

The Siberian cat has gained popularity not only in Russia but also worldwide. The founding breed club is the Siberian Cat Club of Russia, founded in 1988. The breed standard was first established in the 1990s. The breed is recognized by many international cat organizations, including the International Cat Federation (FIFe) since 1997 and the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) since 2000.

In summary, the Siberian embodies the rustic beauty and warm friendliness that have made it a cherished member of many families around the world. Its heritage as a sturdy working cat of Siberia has been preserved and enriched through the efforts of dedicated breeders, making the Siberian a precious and beloved breed in the world of feline breeding.

Origins

The Siberian cat, originating from Russia, is a natural breed known for its robustness and adaptability to cold climates. This ancient breed is mentioned in Russian folklore tales and historical documents, testifying to its presence in Russian society for centuries. Siberians were valued for their ability to hunt rodents and for their dense fur, allowing them to survive the harsh winters of Siberia.

History

The Siberian was officially recognized as a breed at the international level in the 1990s, although its history in Russia dates back much further. With Russia opening up to the West, interest in the breed increased, and breeding efforts were undertaken to preserve its unique characteristics. Today, the Siberian is appreciated worldwide for its majestic appearance and affectionate temperament.

Standard

The Siberian is a large, powerful and muscular cat, with a wide chest and sturdy legs. Its head is a rounded triangle shape with medium-sized ears wide at the base and expressive oval eyes. Its mid to long fur is dense and waterproof, with an impressive ruff and britches on the hind legs. The fur colors and patterns can vary.

Physical characteristics

Siberians are remarkable for their luxurious fur, designed to protect them from the cold. They have an imposing presence, with a well-balanced body and surprising strength. Their coat is thick and fluffy, requiring regular maintenance, especially during shedding periods. Their facial expression is soft and welcoming, reflecting their friendly nature.

Character

Siberians are known for their gentle and sociable personality. They are very attached to their human family, often showing overwhelming loyalty and affection. Although active and playful, they can also be calm and collected, easily adapting to different environments and lifestyles. They are curious and intelligent, with a tendency to explore their surroundings.

Life expectancy

With proper care, including a balanced diet and regular veterinary care, Siberians can live from 12 to 15 years, or even longer. They are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions. Regular health monitoring is recommended to prevent common problems.

Exercise and activity needs

Siberians are active and playful, requiring daily play sessions to stay fit and stimulated. They enjoy interactive toys, simulated hunting sessions, and access to cat trees or secure shelves to explore. Their adventurous nature can also be satisfied with safe outdoor walks, under supervision.

Recommended diet

A high-quality diet, rich in proteins and suited to their size and activity level, is essential for the Siberian. Foods formulated for large breeds can meet their specific nutritional needs. Access to fresh water must be constant to encourage proper hydration.

Training and obedience

The Siberian, with its intelligence and willingness to please, responds well to positive reinforcement training. They can learn basic commands, tricks, and are generally receptive to litter box training and using a scratching post. Positive reinforcement and a patient approach are key to their training.

Behavior with children

Siberians, with their gentle and patient nature, are excellent with children. They are tolerant and can participate in games, although they also enjoy moments of calm. As always, it is important to supervise interactions between young children and animals to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.

Compatibility with Other Animals

Siberians, with their friendly and adaptable temperament, coexist well with other pets. Their sociable nature allows them to easily integrate into households that already have cats or dogs. However, it is recommended to gradually introduce new companions to ensure a smooth transition and avoid conflicts.

Grooming needs

The dense coat of the Siberian requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing is usually enough to remove dead hair and prevent matting. During shedding seasons, in spring and fall, more frequent grooming sessions may be necessary to manage the increase in hair loss.

Health

Siberians are generally robust and healthy, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions, such as heart disease and kidney problems. A balanced diet, regular veterinary checkups, and special attention to their exercise and weight are crucial for maintaining their health and well-being.

Average price

The price of a Siberian kitten varies depending on many factors, such as lineage, pedigree, and color. On average, prices range between 1000 and 2000 euros. Kittens from reputable breeders and intended for show can be offered at higher prices due to their exceptional quality.

Expenses

Siberian owners should budget for quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming, and essential supplies such as litter boxes, cat trees, and toys. Preventive care, including vaccinations and parasite control, also represents an important aspect of the budget.

Name ideas

Names inspired by their Russian origin, such as Boris, Natasha, Ivan, or Anastasia, may be suitable for Siberians. Names that evoke their majestic appearance and robust nature, like Blizzard, Storm, Luna, or Bear, are also popular among owners.

Legislation and regulation

There is no specific legislation regarding the Siberian breed beyond the general laws on animal welfare. Owners must ensure that their cat is properly vaccinated, identified by microchip, and registered if required by local legislation. Compliance with animal protection laws is imperative.

Official recognition

The Siberian cat is officially recognized by the main international feline organizations, such as the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), the International Cat Association (TICA), and the International Feline Federation (FIFe). This recognition highlights the breed's compliance with specific standards of quality, health, and temperament.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees, providing detailed information on genealogy and confirming breed membership, are available from certified Siberian breeders. These documents are essential for owners interested in breeding, cat shows, or simply to attest to the purity of their cat's breed.

Destination and usage

Traditionally valued for their hunting skills and their ability to adapt to harsh environments, Siberians are now primarily raised as pets. Their friendly temperament, adaptability, and playful nature make them ideal companions for a wide variety of households.

Prohibitions

There are no specific prohibitions on owning Siberian cats. However, owners must comply with local regulations on pet ownership and care, ensuring that their cats receive the necessary attention and care for their well-being.

Breeders of Siberian

Want to see more breeders of Siberian?

Check out the page of our directory listing all breeders of Siberian

Classified Ads of siberian

Breed clubs of siberian

Other of cats breeds that start with a: S

Safari
Savannah
Scottish fold
Scottish straight
Selkirk rex
Selkirk straight
Serengeti
Serval
Seychellois
Siamese
Singapura
Skookum
Snowshoe
Sokoké
Somali
Sphynx
Return to the of cats breed page
Page viewed times