Siberian cat breed

A Siberian cat can take up to five years to become fully mature and they should have a cat food that matches their age, size and activity level. Follow the guidance on the packaging when it comes to how much to feed your cat. 

Measuring out their food will ensure they have enough energy while reducing their chances of becoming overweight.

Siberian cats are described as having a ‘semi-longhair, triple coat’ and they need grooming more frequently in spring and autumn where they moult heavier. This is when they shed their winter or summer hair in preparation for the new season’s coat. Special cat combs are available from your vet that minimise discomfort when grooming. But for the rest of the year, a Siberian cat will only need brushing with a cat brush or grooming glove once or twice a week.

They have a water-resistant coat, and baths aren’t usually needed as they naturally keep themselves clean and tidy.

The Siberian coat comes in a variety of colours and patterns – that means you could find a red Siberian or even a Siberian tabby cat, as well as tortie, chocolate, and grey variations. The result is 124 possible colour combinations for Siberian cats. Eye colour varies a lot too, from coppers to green and blue.

Siberian cats are energetic and love to play. They can be kept as indoor or outdoor cats, but if kept indoors, they’ll need lots of toys to keep them amused. They’ll also enjoy having a perch so they can climb. If they have access to a garden, they love to play outdoors. If you’re concerned about them wandering off, you can teach them to walk on a lead so you can enjoy going out together.

They also love water so whether it’s a running tap or a garden pond, you’ll often find your Siberian cat playing there.

Siberian cats are an intelligent breed. They love being trained and learning new tricks and should be quick to pick up toilet or litter training. They’re often described as having ‘dog-like’ traits and can be taught to play ‘fetch’. They’re very agile and are good at climbing and jumping.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (commonly known as HCM) is a serious heart condition that can affect Siberian cats. In HCM, the heart muscle becomes thick which prevents the heart from working properly. This inherited condition has been identified in some Siberian cat breed lines.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a DNA test for Siberian HCM but research into this condition is ongoing. If recognised early enough, long-term medication and other measures can slow the disease down.

Pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency is an inherited disorder that can affect certain breeds of cats including the Siberian. Affected cats may appear weak and tired, lack an appetite and lose weight. As it is caused by a genetic mutation, there is no treatment or cure. However, the episodes of anaemia can be managed.

Dental problems can affect many cats and Siberians are no exception. Check your Siberian cat’s teeth regularly for any signs of gum disease. Bad breath and difficulty eating can also indicate dental problems. It’s recommended your cat has regular dental check-ups with your vet.

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a condition that covers bladder stones, cystitis and blockages. All these conditions can cause your Siberian cat pain and discomfort when emptying their bladder.

Making sure your Siberian drinks enough water and adjusting their diet can help prevent this unpleasant condition. But if your cat is unable to go to the toilet, emergency treatment may be needed.

It is always best to buy from a trusted breeder. Make sure that the kitten looks healthy (clear eyes and ears, shiny coat and clean bottom) and ask to see the kitten along with its mother, and if possible, the father too.

You can expect to pay between £300 and £1,600 for a Siberian kitten. This may seem like a lot of money. But if you buy your kitten from a reputable breeder, they should have had any necessary health checks done. So, you can be safe in the knowledge you’re buying a healthy kitten.

Like most cats, Siberian cats do shed - but only a small amount in summer and winter. They will moult or shed more fur in the spring and autumn.

While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, Siberian cats are a good breed to have if you’re an allergy sufferer. They have a lower allergen level in their saliva than other breeds.

Although they were once wild cats in Russia, Siberian cats are very friendly. They’re an easy-going breed and will get on with everyone including other pets in the household. They love a cuddle and will happily sit on your lap which makes them an ideal pet for all the family.