Siberian Cat Kittens: Everything You Need To Know

The Siberian cat is a centuries-old breed of domestic cat native to Russia, known for its luxurious triple coat and affectionate, playful personality. With their sweet facial expressions and powerful builds, these cats are well-adapted to the cold climate of Siberia, where they have been cherished for thousands of years. Siberians are often called hypoallergenic due to lower levels of the allergen Fel D1 in their fur, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. They are also highly intelligent, agile, and social, with a fascination for water.

Hypoallergenic qualities

Siberian cats are sometimes classified as hypoallergenic because they produce a negligible amount of the allergen Fel d 1. This is due to a mutation in the Ch1 and Ch2 genes, which are responsible for producing Fel d 1. However, it's important to note that Siberian cats are not entirely hypoallergenic, and some individuals may still experience allergies when exposed to them.

The level of allergens produced by Siberian cats can vary, and some may have higher allergen counts than others. In a study of 300 Siberian cats, it was found that more than half had significantly lower allergen counts than street cats, while a small number had high allergen counts. People with severe cat allergies may react to Siberian cats if the cat licks them or rubs against them excessively. Additionally, Siberian female cats tend to produce higher concentrations of allergens during pregnancy and the early nursing period. Siberian kittens also secrete more Fel d 1 as the protein is crucial to their early development.

To reduce the risk of allergies, it is recommended to spend some time with a Siberian cat before adopting one to assess your sensitivity. It is also important to maintain a clean living environment, regularly groom your cat, and wash your hands after playing with them.

Some people with cat allergies have reported reduced symptoms when owning Siberian cats. For example, one person with asthma and itchy eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing when exposed to regular cats, experienced no allergy attacks when with their Siberian cat for three years. Another person with similar allergy symptoms reported that their symptoms mostly disappeared when living with Siberian cats, unless they were in the same room when the cat used the litter box or during shedding season.

Grooming and triple-layered coats

Siberian cats are known for their long hair and three coats, which can look intimidating to maintain but are actually quite easy to care for. The triple-layered coat is made up of a shorter, dense undercoat of downy hair, a layer of slightly longer "awn hair", and an even longer outer coat of coarse guard hair. The coats can take up to five years to fully develop and can look magnificent when cared for properly.

The grooming routine for a Siberian cat will depend on the cat's coat. Some cats require minimal grooming and can go weeks without being combed, while others have thicker, oilier coats that require daily combing and brushing to avoid matting. It is recommended to use a combination of a slicker brush, soft brush, and metal comb to care for their three coats. During the late winter and summer, Siberians will go through molting seasons and will need to be brushed daily to prevent matting.

In addition to frequent brushing, Siberian cats also need their teeth brushed several times a week and their nails trimmed. It is not recommended to cut their hair or declaw them. While Siberians are considered hypoallergenic, they still shed, so regular brushing and occasional bathing are necessary to reduce loose fur and dander.

Siberian cats are known to have a fascination with water, and their coats are naturally water-resistant. Their coats help them regulate their body temperature throughout the seasons, with a thicker winter coat and a lighter summer coat.

Siberian cat breeders

If you're looking to buy a Siberian kitten, it's important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Health and Genetic Testing:

Ensure the breeder provides official documentation verifying the health of their breeding cats and that the kittens have been genetically tested for common diseases. Ask about any health guarantees and whether the kittens have received their initial vaccinations.

Ethical Practices:

Look for breeders who prioritise the well-being of their cats and kittens. This includes proper socialisation, a clean and stimulating environment, and limited litter sizes to ensure adequate care. Avoid breeders with frequent litters, as this may indicate a focus on profit over ethical practices.

Registration and Certifications:

Reputable breeders are often registered with cat associations like The International Cat Association (TICA) or Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). These organisations hold breeders to high standards of conduct and ethical codes. Additionally, seek out breeders who are transparent about the pedigree and lineage of their cats, providing transfer slips and certificates.

Communication and Transparency:

A good breeder should be responsive and open to communication. They should allow you to visit and see the kittens and their parents in person before purchase. Be cautious of breeders who are difficult to contact or who do not provide clear answers to your inquiries.

Allergy Testing:

If you or someone in your household has cat allergies, it's crucial to test your compatibility with Siberian cats before purchasing. Reputable breeders should offer allergy testing or provide guidance on how to assess your allergies. Keep in mind that while Siberians are known for their hypoallergenic qualities, individual experiences may vary, and some people may still experience allergies.

Price:

Siberian kittens from reputable breeders typically range from $1400 to $2100 USD. Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate a scam or unhealthy breeding practices.

• Blue Eyed Frisco (Bay Area, California)
• SIBER (Alberta, Canada)
• Sullivan's Siberians (Idaho)
• Lundberg Siberians (Oregon)
• Golden Dawn Siberians (north of Sacramento, California)
• Siberians of Santa Barbara (California)
• Moubani Cats (Pacific Northwest)
• Kender Siberians (Phoenix, Arizona)
• Pumaridge (Kingman, Arizona)
• Sineglazka Siberians (Nevada)
• Nightmusic Siberians (Arizona)
• Tina Slayton at Puma Ridge (Arizona)
• Sunlit Siberians (Rocklin, California)
• Siberian Beauty Cattery (Los Angeles, California)

Remember to always do your own research and follow your instincts when choosing a breeder. A good breeder will prioritise the health and well-being of their cats and provide you with all the necessary information and support.

Common health problems

Siberian cats are generally a healthy breed, but there are some common health problems to watch out for. Here are some of the most frequent issues:

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a heart disease that causes the wall of the heart to thicken beyond its normal width, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood. HCM can lead to congestive heart failure, fluid buildup in the lungs, and blood clots. While some cats may show no signs, others may exhibit symptoms such as laboured or rapid breathing, open-mouthed breathing, and pain or paralysis in the hind limbs due to blood clots. HCM is typically diagnosed using echocardiography and is treatable with medication, but early detection is crucial for long-term management.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Polycystic Kidney Disease is an inherited condition where multiple cysts or pockets of fluid form in the kidneys. These cysts are present from birth but grow over time, disrupting kidney function and potentially leading to kidney failure. PKD is caused by a single gene abnormality and can affect cats of all ages. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, decreased appetite, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhoea. While there is no cure, special diets, fluid therapy, and medications can help manage the condition.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a common issue in Siberian cats due to accidental breeding with other cat breeds. It occurs when tartar builds up along the gum line, leading to bacterial growth and inflammation (gingivitis). This can progress to tooth decay, pain, and tooth loss, and the infection can spread to other organs. Signs of periodontal disease include excessive drooling, loss of appetite, and bleeding, red, or receding gums. Treatment options include dental cleaning, antibiotic gel, and tooth extraction if necessary. Maintaining a dental hygiene routine, including brushing your cat's teeth daily or a few times a week, is essential for prevention.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease encompasses several conditions affecting the bladder and urethra, such as urinary stones, bacterial infections, and tumours. FLUTD can be serious and even fatal if left untreated. Signs to watch for include urinating outside the litter box, blood in the urine, foul-smelling urine, excessive licking of the genital area, difficulty urinating, or inability to urinate, which requires immediate veterinary attention. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include flushing the urinary system, surgery, fluid therapy, antibiotics, and special diets.

Hereditary Cancer

While relatively rare, cancer is more common in solid white Siberian cats due to their pedigree ancestors. It is caused by the presence of a specific gene called an oncogene. Signs can be vague, such as poor appetite, lack of energy, and weight loss, or more apparent, like lumps, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unhealed wounds. Early detection through biopsies and other tests is crucial for successful treatment with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency

Pyruvate kinase deficiency is an enzyme deficiency that affects red blood cells, leading to anaemia. This condition may show few signs, but symptoms can include lethargy and decreased appetite. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. A genetic test can detect this condition, and your veterinarian can advise on appropriate management.

History of the breed

The Siberian cat, or Siberian Forest Cat, is a centuries-old breed of domestic cat native to Russia, and is the country's national cat. They are known to have existed for a long time in the dense forests of Siberia, with the earliest known reference dating back to around 1000 AD.

Siberian cats are thought to have descended from an ancient, natural landrace from Siberia. They were selectively bred and pedigreed in cat fancier and breeder organisations, and today, all Siberian cats are purebred with a formally registered ancestry.

The breed was first introduced to the world outside of Russia in the 19th century. In 1864, a German book called *Brehms Tierleben* described a long-haired cat breed as "eine rote Tobolsker Katze aus Sibirien" ("a red Tobolsk cat from Siberia"). In 1889 and 1892, the breed was mentioned in two editions of a book by Harrison Weir, who organised some of the earliest cat shows in England in 1871. Weir referred to the breed as the "Russian Long-haired Cat", but also mentioned a "Siberian Cat" shown to him by a Mr. Castang, which had a "slaty-blue" colour, a rounded head, deep golden eyes, and a short, thick tail.

During the late 1980s, following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the Soviet Union, a second wave of Siberian cats were introduced to the rest of the world. In 1987, a cat enthusiast took a young male and female from St. Petersburg to Berlin, starting a serious breeding program under the name Siberian Forest Cat or Siberian Cat. The breed was recognised by all major cat registries for championship status in 2006.

The Siberian cat is thought to be the ancestor of all modern-day long-haired breeds. They are known for their affectionate, playful, and intelligent personalities, as well as their long, thick coats that protect them from the harsh Russian climate.

Frequently asked questions