The national cat of Russia may have been the inspiration for the Beatles’ lyric “Come and keep your comrade warm.” The Siberian has a thick double coat with a neck ruff, perfect for surviving those cold northern Russia winters. He’s a sweetheart with an adventurous spirit and an agile, muscular body.
Did You Know the Siberian is Well-Suited to Any Home?
You may hear that the Siberian is a hypoallergenic breed, but that is not correct. Allergies are not caused by a particular coat type but by dander, the dead skin cells that are shed by all cats (and people, for that matter). There is no scientific evidence that any breed or cross breed is more or less allergenic than any other cat.
As befits a cat from northern Russia, the Siberian wears a magnificent fur coat that not only protects him from the elements but also gives him a glamorous appearance that belies his gentle good nature. The semilonghair is the national cat of Russia and only made his way to North America in the past 20 years, one of the benefits of the fall of communism.
At first glance the Siberian resembles the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat, but he is differentiated by having a more rounded body and head. He also stands out for his large yellow-green eyes, tufted ears and neck ruff. The Siberian coat comes in many colors and patterns, but brown tabbies seem to be most popular.
The Siberian is well suited to any home with people who will love him and comb his gorgeous coat twice a week. He does have periods of heavy shedding, during which you will need to comb him more frequently. Physically, he is adapted to harsh climates, but keep him indoors to protect him from cars, diseases spread by other cats and attacks from other animals.
Other Quick Facts About the Siberian
The Siberian matures slowly, sometimes not reaching his full physical development until he is 5 years old. Some neutered males weigh up to 25 pounds.
This is a medium-size to large cat who is strong and alert. His head is a modified wedge shape with rounded contours. He has furry, medium-large ears and medium-size to large eyes that are almost round. The body is solid and muscular, supported by medium-length legs and big round feet adorned with tufts of fur on the toes. The long coat comes in all colors and patterns, including colorpoint, with or without white.
