Siberian is the name given to Russia's native semi-longhair. They have been around for at least one thousand years as far as recorded history. This large, powerful cat is still quite rare in the U.S., though it is more common on the Asian continent and in Europe. Brown tabby is the most popular color, but it is accepted in all other colors as well.

Other Names

Sibi

Native Country

Russia, Ukraine

Breed Description

Head: Medium-sized, broad, triangular, with rounded contours. Flat top of the head. Slightly curved forehead. Cheeks not pronounced or prominent. Rounded, moderately long muzzle. Nose broad between the eyes, receding toward the tip, with a slight curve. Round chin. Long, thick whiskers.
Eyes: Large, nearly round, well-spaced, set at a slight slant. Traditional adult color: green to yellow, but blue in colorpoints. No relationship to coat color.
Neck: Moderately long, rounded, thick, very muscular.
Body: Compact, moderately long. Long back, slightly curved or arched. Well-rounded chest. Strong bone and muscle structure.
Paw: Hind legs slightly longer than forelegs. Heavy-boned, very muscular. Large, round paws with tufts of hair between the toes. All claws but one are retractile.
Tail: Moderately long, rounded, thick, very muscular.
Coat: Semilong to long hair, fluffy, oily, waterproof, effectively protecting the cat from bitter cold. Stiff guard hairs. Long hair on the belly, slightly shorter on the shoulders and part of the chest. Long, well-furnished ruff. Thick undercoat. All traditional colors and color combinations are accepted except chocolate and lilac. Colorpoint specimens are known as Neva Mascarade.

History

His pedigree must indicate his Russian origin This large cat lived in the wilds of Russia for quite a while. It might be the product of crosses between domestic cats brought to Siberia and the Ukraine and local wild cats. Its thick, insulating fur is adapted to its harsh native climate. Mussa, a female red and white tabby, and Tima, a tom, were purchased in St. Petersburg and brought to Berlin in 1987. Hans and Betti Schulz bred the first Siberians in their Newski Cattery. In 1990, some fifteen specimens were recorded in western Europe. The Siberian has been established in France since 1991. It was recognized by the F.I.Fe. in 1997. In 1990, Elizabeth Terrell imported the first specimens of the breed to her Starpoint Cattery in the United States. T.I.C.A. recognized the Siberian and published a standard in 1998. The breed is quite uncommon outside eastern Europe and the United States.

Behavior

The cat's personality is often described as dog-like, as they tend not to be shy with strangers. It is a loyal, affectionate, and playful breed. These large cats exude quiet strength. They are quite lively and can be highly active. Despite a strong personality and character, Siberians are very friendly toward other cats. They are playful and get along well with children. They are affectionate and very attached to their owner. They have a soft voice. These hardy, water-loving cats are good climbers and excellent jumpers. They are not fully grown until the age of five. They are easy to groom, since their coat resists matting. Normally, weekly brushing is enough. During heavy shedding in the spring, daily brushing is required.