The Siberian, a robust and affectionate cat, adapted to cold climates.
Russia's Furry Treasure
The Siberian is a natural and ancient cat breed, originating from the cold forests of Siberia, Russia. With its dense, water-repellent triple coat, powerful musculature, and bushy tail, it is perfectly adapted to harsh winters. Despite its wild appearance and imposing size, the Siberian is known for its gentle, affectionate, and very playful temperament, earning it the nickname 'dog-like cat'.
Particularly appreciated by allergy sufferers due to its low production of the Fel d1 protein (which causes allergic reactions), the Siberian is a devoted companion and an excellent family pet.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 14, 2025.
My personal tip : The Siberian's magnificent coat is its natural protection against the cold and requires regular brushing, at least two to three times a week, and daily during intense shedding periods (spring and autumn). This will help prevent matting and reduce shedding. This is a very active and intelligent cat that needs a lot of stimulation. Provide a large cat tree, interactive toys, and daily play sessions. It loves water, so don't be surprised if it plays with the tap or a basin! Its affectionate nature means it enjoys companionship and should not be left alone for too long.
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Identifying the Siberian: Key Characteristics
The Siberian is recognizable by its opulent coat, ruff, and robust silhouette.
The Siberian is a medium to large-sized cat, with a powerful, muscular body and sturdy bone structure, giving an impression of strength and majesty. Its head is a modified wedge shape, with full cheeks and a sweet, attentive expression. Its coat is its most distinctive feature, designed to protect it from extreme climates.
Size: Medium to large-sized cat, robust and athletic.
Coat: Medium-long to long, triple-layered, very dense, and water-repellent. The undercoat is thick, the guard hairs are longer and glossy, forming an impressive ruff, breeches, and a plumed tail. All colors and patterns are accepted, including variations with points (Neva Masquerade).
Head: Modified wedge shape, with a broad skull and prominent cheekbones.
Eyes: Large, round to slightly oval, expressive, all colors accepted (green, gold, or blue for Neva Masquerades).
Ears: Medium to large, wide at the base, slightly rounded, with tufts of hair inside and sometimes 'lynx tips'.
Tail: Long, broad at the base, very bushy, and carried proudly.
Dimensions and Key Information (Siberian)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
28 – 35 cm
25 – 30 cm
25 – 35 cm
Weight
5 – 8 kg
3.5 – 6 kg
3.5 – 8 kg
Life Expectancy
10 – 18 years
10 – 18 years
10 – 18 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-5
These figures illustrate the imposing size of the Siberian, which is a slow-maturing breed, potentially reaching its full size and weight around 3 to 5 years of age.
Behavior: The Russian Guardian, Affectionate and Agile
The Siberian is a cat originating from the cold forests of Russia, which explains its dense and protective coat. It is a cat of wild beauty and a gentle, affectionate temperament, often compared to a small dog for its loyalty and attachment to its family. Highly intelligent and curious, the Siberian loves to explore its environment and is renowned for its great agility and climbing skills.
These cats are known for their balanced personality: they are both playful and cuddly, active and capable of relaxing peacefully. They enjoy participating in family activities and can even learn tricks or play fetch. The Siberian is often well tolerated by allergic individuals due to its lower production of the Fel D1 protein. Its large size and love for human company make it similar to the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat, two other gentle forest giants.
The Siberian gets along very well with children and other animals, making it an excellent family companion. Its meow is rather soft and melodious, often a trill. If you are drawn to a large, robust cat with an affectionate temperament, the Siberian is an ideal choice. For extreme gentleness and the ability to fully relax, the Ragdoll might also appeal to you. Finally, for a more discreet elegance but similar sociability, the Birman and the American Bobtail also offer wonderful companion qualities.
Origin and Adaptability
The history of the Siberian is ancient and mysterious, with its ancestors having lived in Russian forests for hundreds of years, naturally selected by the harsh climate. It is considered one of the three natural long-haired cat breeds (along with the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat). It was mentioned in Russian writings as early as the 17th century.
The breed began to be officially recognized and exported to the West in the late 1980s and early 1990s, after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The CFA and TICA recognized it in the 2000s. The Siberian is a highly adaptable cat, capable of living equally well in an apartment (provided it has enough vertical space and stimulation) or a house with secure outdoor access. Its robustness, intelligence, and love of human companionship make it an ideal companion for many types of households.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Siberian
Is the Siberian hypoallergenic?
No cat is 100% hypoallergenic, but the Siberian is often better tolerated by people with allergies because it produces less of the Fel d1 protein, the main allergen present in cat saliva and skin secretions.
What is the temperament of the Siberian?
The Siberian is an affectionate, loyal, playful, intelligent, and patient cat. It is sociable with children and other animals, often compared to a "dog-cat" for its attachment and enjoyment of interactive games.
How do you groom the Siberian's coat?
Its triple-layered coat requires regular brushing (two to three times a week) and more frequent brushing during shedding periods to prevent tangles and reduce shedding.
Is the Siberian prone to specific health problems?
The Siberian is generally a robust breed. However, it can be predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Genetic testing and regular veterinary check-ups are recommended.
What is the life expectancy of a Siberian?
The average life expectancy of a Siberian typically ranges between 10 and 18 years, and it can live longer with good care and a stimulating environment.
