Size

The height of the Siberian cat reaches 23-28 centimeters. As for the length, it ranges from 38-46 centimeters.

Weight 

An adult Siberian cat typically weighs between  3.5 and 7.5 kilograms. The exact weight of each cat can vary based on genetics, diet, and overall health.

Lifespan 

The Siberian Cat’’s lifespan ranges from 11 to 18 years. Nevertheless, remember, these numbers are only tentative and our beloved companion’s life expectancy significantly depends on their healthy lifestyle and stress-free environment. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet will greatly improve the quality of life of your companion animal.

Fur

Due to its long and thick fur, the Siberian cat can perfectly tolerate frost. The fur of these important family members is distinguished by a multitude of colors and, as usual, consists of three layers. This evolutionary adaptation related to the coat, similar to the Norwegian Forest Cat, makes the Siberian cat especially comfortable to live in its native environment.

Social, intelligent, and capable of independence when necessary, the Siberian cats are unusually curious and sharp-witted. Despite their impressive size, it has a flexible body, able to reach desired objects with a single jump. While Siberian cats are friendly and loving with their companions, they tend to be reserved and cautious around strangers. This can be mitigated with proper socialization.

If they receive sufficient physical activity and opportunities for outdoor walks, Siberian cats adapt well to any living environment and are content to spend most of their time indoors.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency

An enzyme known as pyruvate kinase aids the companion animal’s body to produce red blood cells. Therefore, lack of pyruvate kinase manifests in hemolytic anemia and causes fatigue along with yellowing of the skin. If symptoms are detected, you will be able to determine the amount of the enzyme with the help of a timely consultation with the veterinarian.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a heart disease that causes the walls of the ventricles to thicken. Companion animals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy suffer from chest pain, shortness of breath, and arrhythmia. Medicines that reduce the heart’s contraction force are often used to treat the disease. Like congenital hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, most late-onset cases of the disease are caused by a genetic defect. 

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may appear in infancy or adulthood. Hopefully, you can effectively manage the disease by actively communicating with your veterinarian, exercising properly, and avoiding obesity.

Polycystic

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes the formation of fluid-filled cysts and loss of kidney function. To prevent the spread of the illness, it is necessary to identify the companion animal carrying the polycystic disease gene and declare them unsuitable for the breeding process.

A specialized diet may be necessary to support kidney function. It is recommended to conduct this process only in collaboration with an experienced nutritionist. Blood tests, frequent veterinary check-ups, and competent companion animal care practices can help manage the disease and adjust the treatment strategy.

Even though felines have unique food preferences, they all have in common the need for vital substances that they require to ensure a healthy and happy life. You can meet this need thoroughly by offering them high-quality cat food.

The recommended portion sizes for Siberian cats vary based on age, lifestyle, and health. It’s no surprise that a fast-growing, energetic kitten requires a different balance of nutrients compared to a less active, sterilized cat.

Proper nutrition is crucial for the health of your Siberian cat, as with the right diet, its lifespan may even be extended up to 18 years. Therefore, consulting a nutritionist to get answers to all your questions about optimal nutrition for your furry friend is highly recommended.

Siberian cats originate from Russia, specifically the Siberian region. They have been documented as far back as the 11th century. While much about their early history remains unclear, their name frequently appears in Russian fairy tales and children’s books.

Russians have demonstrated their affection for these beloved cats in various ways, including naming a square in Tyumen after them. During World War II, the Hermitage, Russia’s main museum, faced a severe rat infestation. To protect the valuable exhibits, the government deployed over 5,000 Siberian cats to eliminate the pests. Remarkably, cats still reside in the museum today.