Siberian Forest Cat

Siberian Forest Cat

The medium to large semi-longhaired breed is known as Siberian cats, Siberian forest cats, or Moscow longhairs. Males weigh between 7 and 9 kg, and females are only slightly smaller. They have shiny fur, round, curious eyes, and are powerful, attentive, and adventurous. As Siberian forest cats originate from Siberia, they have evolved over time by adapting to their environment, where they need a thick coat to withstand the harsh Russian winters. They are wonderful for a busy home with children and other animals due to their relaxed behavior and low maintenance needs.

The History of the Siberian Forest Cat:

The dense forests of Siberia are said to have given rise to Siberian cats for at least 1,000 years. Some people even believe that these silky beauties are the precursors of all modern longhaired cats. Although not much is known about the early development of these cats, they most likely became domesticated as they sought shelter from the harsh Siberian weather in yards, shops, and monasteries. They would have been valued by the residents of Siberia for their keen hunting abilities, which would mean fewer indoor rats. Although the exact timing is uncertain, Siberian cats most likely immigrated to the UK alongside Russian immigrants. Siberian cats arrived in the United States in 1990, which might surprise most people. The costs of importing them were prohibitive, but an enthusiast from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, named Elizabeth Terrell, eventually made a deal to swap four of her Himalayan cats for Siberian cats. Even though Siberian cats can be found in the USA, they are still quite unusual.

Caring for a Siberian Cat:

Since the Siberian cat is incredibly soft, you might be concerned about whether they require a lot of maintenance and grooming, but fortunately, they do not. The Siberian cat has three layers of fur, yet their shiny coat only needs to be brushed once or twice a week to prevent matting. However, towards late winter, it's a good idea to brush the cat every day because they shed heavily during this period. Weekly nail clipping is recommended, and you should check for foul odors and redness in the ears. If there is an ear infection, gently clean any buildup with a damp cotton ball and call your vet. In addition, you should give your cat a couple of weekly teeth cleanings.

Are Siberian Cats Hypoallergenic?

Siberian cats are purportedly hypoallergenic and should not trigger an allergic reaction when petted. Siberian cats actually produce less Fel d.1, which is the itching and sneeze-inducing protein found on the skin and in saliva. However, even trace levels of Fel d1 can make your eyes water. Siberian cats also create dander, which can exacerbate allergies.

How Much Does a Siberian Forest Cat Cost?

A Siberian forest cat costs between 6,000 and 10,000 DKK, depending on lineage and age. The price of Siberian kittens varies based on pedigree and age. Why is the price so high? It's because of the high demand for this breed and the very limited number of purebred Siberian cats outside of Russia.