Siberian Cat: Everything You Need to Know
Meet the Siberian Cat
Weight: 4 - 10 kg
Wither height: 20 - 25 cm
Energy level: High
Lifespan: 12 - 20 years
Social need: High
Colours: Many colours and patterns, including black, white, golden, chocolate, blue, and cinnamon.
Health problems:Generally healthy, but can be prone to eye conditions and genetic issues like Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).
Siberian Cat Personality
Curious, adventurous, and very social, the Siberian cat needs plenty of opportunities to explore. They have high energy levels and love to play, jump, climb, and 'hunt'. Whatever the weather, they'll likely want to be outside. These intelligent cats know what they want and can sometimes benefit from gentle training. Siberians form deep bonds with their humans and love to be involved in everything you do, appreciating plenty of interaction and cuddles.
Appearance and Coat Care
Siberian cats are strong and muscular, and can become quite heavy. They grow slowly, often reaching full size between 3-5 years old. Their coat is thick, dense, and water-repellent, offering excellent protection against the cold and wet. While it doesn't usually tangle badly, its length can sometimes cause knots. Regular brushing a few times a week will keep their coat looking good and minimise shedding. Siberians are popular with allergy sufferers because they produce less of the Fel d 1 protein, the primary allergen, meaning their dander is less likely to cause reactions.
Siberian Cat Health
Siberians are generally a robust and healthy breed. Due to their large eyes, keep them clean to help prevent potential issues. Like all cats, they can inherit certain genetic conditions, such as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart condition.
Dental Health
Did you know brushing your cat's teeth is crucial? Daily brushing is the best way to prevent gum disease (periodontitis). Find out more here. FORL, another common dental condition, often occurs alongside periodontitis. While brushing might be a challenge, your cat can learn to tolerate it with patience and tasty rewards. Get tips on how to brush your cat's teeth here. For more general advice on cat dental care, click here.
Poisoning Risks
Many common household items can be toxic to cats. Be aware of poisonous plants; learn more here. Other dangers include chocolate and mouse and rat poison. Always store anything hazardous securely out of your cat's reach.
