Siberian

• ExerciseModerate

  A couple of daily play sessions keep body and mind sharp.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Appreciates a roomy home with plenty to climb and patrol.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment12–18 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Kidney disease · Obesity

The Siberian is Russia's national forest cat, a powerful, agile athlete under a magnificent triple coat, with a warm, dog-like personality to match. It is affectionate, playful and adventurous — famous for leaping to the top of bookcases, playing in water and following its family devotedly — yet also calm and even-tempered, making it a wonderful fit for active families with children and other pets. Note that it matures slowly, filling out over about five years. The breed is often described as lower-allergen because many Siberians produce less of the Fel d 1 protein, but this varies from cat to cat and no cat is truly hypoallergenic, so sensitive owners should spend time with the specific cat first. The dense triple coat needs brushing two or three times a week, and daily during the heavy spring and autumn molts. Generally robust, the Siberian is screened by good breeders for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease. Keep this big, food-loving cat lean, provide plenty of climbing space and water, maintain good dental care, and keep up routine heart and kidney monitoring as it ages.

• How much play does a Siberian need?

  Moderate. A couple of daily play sessions keep body and mind sharp.

• How much grooming does a Siberian need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Is a Siberian suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Appreciates a roomy home with plenty to climb and patrol.

• Is a Siberian a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Siberian live?

  12–18 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Siberian?

  Keep an eye out for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Kidney disease, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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