Siberian cat breed: the good-hearted giant who is the perfect companion for allergy sufferers

One of the world's largest cat breeds, the Siberian cat may seem like a grumpy, aloof kitty to many at first glance, but this is not the case at all. This thick-furred, powerfully built pet is extremely affectionate with all members of the family and would be the perfect companion for almost most cat lovers.

This beautiful, warm-hearted giant immediately sweeps anyone off its feet. In addition to its thick, soft fur, sparkling eyes, bursting energy and refined hunting instinct, this cat is kind to almost everyone. It has a sensitive nature, and one of the best things about it is that it can also be a suitable companion for people with allergies!

History

The Siberian, or Siberian Forest Cat, is a charming feline native to the Siberian taiga, a forested area with a subarctic climate contributed to the cat’s long, thick, protective coat. Cats like it have been known in Russia for about 1,000 years and are often featured in folk tales. Because of the climate, most of the cats from the region resembled the present-day Siberian breed, and all cats similar to it were given that name.

As in all cultures, Russian farmers and shopkeepers valued cats for their hunting ability. Mice and rats were kept well away from the grain and other food stores. Allegedly, during the siege of Leningrad in World War II, unwanted rodents proliferated in the city, so Siberian cats were introduced to control the population. The breed is thought to have developed from the crossing of Siberian wild cats with domestic cats over time. Individuals of this type already took part in the first cat exhibition – held in 1871 in the Crystal Palace in London. Siberians were first imported to the United States in the early 1990s after the end of the Cold War, and were recognized by the International Feline Federation in 1996.

Breed standard

The Siberian is a large, powerfully built cat that can weigh up to 11 kg. Its body is covered with moderately long, abundant, dense, waterproof fur. Its color can be very diverse, but most often it is orange, black, cream, blue, tortoiseshell and their tabby versions. This breed is only very rarely monochromatic. The coat thickens significantly in winter, even if the kitty is only indoors. In summer, the coat is shorter. The head is short, wedge-shaped, and somewhat stocky. The mustache pads are round and stand out well. Its ears are medium-sized, hairy inside, and rounded at the end. His eyes are slightly oval, set far apart. Their color can be blue, green or yellow. The neck is short, the limbs are strong and moderately long. There are tufts of fur between his toes. His tail is thick, powerful, with a rounded tip. Its expected lifespan is 12-15 years.

Character

The Siberian is at least as warm-hearted as his cold homeland. It loves people and wants to be around them all the time, so it tends to follow the owner everywhere. Relaxing on their owner’s lap can be the highlight of their day. But they also love guests, they heart is open to everyone. They are not a one-owner cat, they like the whole family; ncluding children, dogs and other cats.

In addition to being loving and attentive, the Siberian is also active and playful. Any object can become a toy for this smart cat, so valuable things should be kept away from it. Teaching tricks is a fun and easy way to exercise their sharp mind.

Because of its forest-dweller heritage, it likes to play with water —perhaps a genetic memory of when it went fishing for food. Don’t be surprised if it likes to dabble in the water left at the bottom of the tub or drink from the tap, or poke the water in the bowl with its paw. As befits a cat that works hard and hunts, it is very athletic and may be found balancing on the top of a door or leaping to the highest point in the room with ease.

Its calm nature gives the opportunity to be a therapy cat. It likes to snuggle next to its owner, and since it is a very sensitive animal, it notices the mood changes of its loved ones. And although it really likes the attention directed at itself, it doesn’t demand it, but politely waits for it.

Ideal environment

It can be an ideal companion for many. This cat gets along well with other cats and dogs, and can be a great favorite for large families. It is also loved by children, and is even recommended for allergy sufferers. Because the saliva of most individuals contains very little Fel d1 glycoprotein, and this is the compound responsible for allergic reactions. It is important to know that most people are not allergic to the fur itself, but to the aforementioned compound found in the saliva of cats. Since cats wash themselves a lot, this allergen covers their entire fur.

Since the Siberian is a particularly sociable cat, it is difficult for it to bear loneliness. But, if you work a lot, it gets along well with another cat companion or even dogs during the day. Being playful and energetic, it is important that these needs are met.

Care

It rarely needs a bath, as the layer of sebum on its fur repels dirt and water. The thick fur is relatively easy to maintain. You only need to comb more often during the shedding period. Brushing too hard can damage the fur as it can loosen it. Claws should be trimmed, and the cleanliness of the ears and eyes should also be checked from time to time.

Common health problems

Siberians are generally healthy, but one problem that has been noted in the breed is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is a form of heart disease that causes the heart muscle to become enlarged.

(Literature Laura Aceti – Viola Autieri: Our best friend, the cat)