|
The Scratching Post
Siberian 
The Siberian is one of the two largest cats and is very similar in size to the Maine Coon. The Siberian is large, strong and luxuriously furred. This breed takes up to five years to attain its full size and splendor. At maturity, these cats are powerfully built, with an overall appearance of strength and size. They are medium to large triple-coated cats with surprising heft for its size. The head is broader at the top of the skull and narrows slightly to a full-rounded muzzle. The ears are medium-large, wide, rounded and slant forward. The hair over the back of the ear is short and thin. The round eyes angle slightly towards the base of the ear. The well-muscled neck is round and sturdy. The body is well muscled with the back arched slightly higher than the shoulders. The paws are large and rounded with toe tufts.
|
|
Temperament
|
The Siberian has a heart that is as big as its size. They are large, loyal and loving; making them wonderful family pets. Siberians are devoted, affectionate cats that tend to bond with the entire family rather than only one person. This breed will make friends with children, cat-friendly dogs, other cats and strangers. They love all creatures great and small ? with the exception of mice, which they turn into a nice meal. They enjoy being handled, picked up and cuddled. Just make sure that your lap is big enough to accommodate this giant cat. They love to sleep next to and on top of their humans, so a king-size bed is recommended if you have more than one Siberian. They are intuitive, extremely strong and remarkably agile for their size. This cat is generally a quiet breed.
|
|
Weight
|
Male: 12-16 lbs. ; Female: 8-12 lbs.
|
|
Health Problems
|
Though this breed is new to North America, so far, Siberians seem to be healthy, hardy cats with no known breed-related health problems.
|
|
Living Conditions
|
This breed easily adapts to any type of living conditions both indoor and outdoor.
|
|
Exercise
|
Siberians strongly carry their natural instinct for hunting. It is easy to teach them to fetch and do other tricks. Remember to play with your cat each day as this is important to your cat?s mental and physical health. Take your Siberian out for walks in your garden, the woods or the park.
|
|
Life Expectancy
|
15 or more years
|
|
Grooming
|
Siberians tend to be self-grooming. They remain relatively tangle-free, though males do tend to get knotty in the springtime if they are not combed daily.
|
|
Origin
|
The Siberian is the national cat of Russia. Siberians have been around for hundreds of years. According to some Siberian fanciers, Russians immigrating (or being exiled) to Siberia brought their cats with them. Because of the merciless climate, these cats developed?or acquired through mating with the local cats?longer hair, weatherproof coats and larger, stockier bodies. The breed is rare in the United States and breeders maintain waiting lists since demand exceeds the supply.
|