Siberian Cat

Country of Origin:	Russia
Colors:	Black, Blue, Fawn, Silver, Tabby and White
Average Size:	Weight:  17-26 lbs  ( 7.7 – 11.7 kg)      Length: medium to large
Life Span:	12-15 years
Coat:	Semi-long
Personality:	Affectionate, Agile, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful and Social.
Characteristics:	Energy:  Active     Talkative: High        Kid Friendly:  Yes        Allergic: Yes

These cats are looking very similar to the Norwegian Forest Cat, and the same as them have a wonderfully thick, dense and oily hair, ideal for extreme cold northern climate. This breed has probably existed for thousands of years.

Russian cat breeds were almost forgotten in the 20th century, when the relations between the Soviet Union and the rest of the world became very chilly. However, in recent years there is a growing interest for the official recognition of this breed.

Siberian forest cats were imported to the United States in 1990 thanks to the efforts of Elizabeth Terrell of Starpoint kennel for cats – a name that is mentioned in the pedigrees of most excellent Siberian cats in America.

As interest in the Siberian forest cats grew, appeared a greater variety of colors and patterns. Face of Siberian forest cats in Russia is different from the one officially accepted in the West.

In Russia, more preferable look of these cats is a “wild cat” look with broad face and slightly slanted eyes that looks more like Asian. Outside Russia, the TICA standard for the head- Siberian cats describes them as less “wild” with lovely expression and almost round eyes.

Furthermore, in their homeland, Siberian Forest Cats can have only colors that are based on black and red, in order to preserve their wild look. Therefore, Siberian Forest Cats at international level developed two different looks.

Siberian Forest Cat is a strong animal with long muscular and strong body and strong legs that end in have large round paws with tufts of fur. For both sexes, the hind legs are slightly longer than the front, and the posture pelvis is slightly curved. Around her neck is a mane, which emphasizes low compact body proportions.

The ears are of medium size with rounded tips pointing outwards, creating the impression that the cat is constantly on the alert. Magnificent tail is thick with a rounded tip.

The top coat is firm and slightly oily to easily reject the rain and snow, and the dense woolly undercoat is thick enough to protect the cat from the Arctic winds in Siberia. Every aspect of the Siberian Forest Cat shows that it is able to survive in the harshest environments and climates around the world.