Siberian
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Siberian
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| His pedigree must indicate his Russian origin This large cat lived in the wilds of Russia for quite a while. It might be the product of crosses between domestic cats brought to Siberia and the Ukraine and local wild cats. Its thick, insulating fur is adapted to its harsh native climate. Mussa, a female red and white tabby, and Tima, a tom, were purchased in St. Petersburg and brought to Berlin in 1987. Hans and Betti Schulz bred the first Siberians in their Newski Cattery. In 1990, some fifteen specimens were recorded in western Europe. The Siberian has been established in France since 1991. It was recognized by the F.I.Fe. in 1997. In 1990, Elizabeth Terrell imported the first specimens of the breed to her Starpoint Cattery in the United States. T.I.C.A. recognized the Siberian and published a standard in 1998. The breed is quite uncommon outside eastern Europe and the United States. |
| The Siberian Cat is playful and affectionate, as well as smart and sociable. |
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Head
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The head is a modified wedge of medium size with rounded contours, broader at the skull and narrowing slightly to a full and slightly rounded muzzle with a well-rounded chin. Female muzzles may more delicate than that of the males. The cheekbones are neither high set or prominent. There should be a good distance between the ears and eyes. The top of the head is flat, with a slight nose curvature of a gentle slope from the forehead to the nose and a slight concave curvature before the tip. The neck is medium, rounded, substantial, and well muscled. The whiskers are strong and long. |
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Eyes
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The ears are medium large, wide and set almost as much on the sides as on the top of the head with approximately 1 to 1-1/2 widths between them. The tips are rounded and the ear tilts forward. Lynx tipping is desirable. Hair over the back of the ears is short and thin; from the middle of the ear, the furnishings become longer and cover the base completely. |
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Ears
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The large, almost round eyes are set wide; the outer corner is slightly angled toward the lower base of the ear. There is no relationship between eye color and coat color/pattern, however, the typical adult color is yellow-green. |
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Neck
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Moderately long, rounded, thick, very muscular. |
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Body
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This is a large, moderately long, strong cat which takes five years to mature. The females may be smaller than males, with alters tending to be larger. They are extremely agile and their muscles are mighty, outstanding and powerful. The back is long and very slightly curved or arched; the back appears to be horizontal when in motion. The convex muscular torso and round, compact belly appear with age. The hind legs, when straightened, are slightly longer than the forelegs, but, in keeping with the slightly arched back, this is not noticeable when the cat is in motion. |
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Paw
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Hind legs slightly longer than forelegs. Heavy-boned, very muscular. Large, round paws with tufts of hair between the toes. All claws but one are retractile. |
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Tail
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The tail is medium, somewhat shorter than the length of the body, wide at the base, blunt at the tip without thickening or kinks, evenly and thickly furnished. |
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Coat
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This is a moderately long to long hair cat, with hair on the shoulder blades and lower part of the chest being thick and slightly shorter. There should be an abundant ruff setting off the large impressive head. The coat is solid, long, and lustrous, giving the impression of lacquer and oil when ungroomed; drier once groomed. The hair thickens to curls on the belly and britches, but a wavy coat is not characteristic. There is a tight undercoat, thicker in cold weather. The skin is tough and may have a bluish cast. Both maturity and temperature affect the coat and texture may vary with coat color. |
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Fault
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Adult cats not having substantial size and weight. Straight profile; narrow or fox-like muzzle. Almond shaped eyes; very long legs. |
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Disqualify
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Kinked tails, incorrect number of toes, crossed eyes. |
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Character
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These large cats exude quiet strength. They are quite lively and can be highly active. Despite a strong personality and character, Siberians are very friendly toward other cats. They are playful and get along well with children. They are affectionate and very attached to their owner. They have a soft voice. These hardy, water-loving cats are good climbers and excellent jumpers. They need space for their emotional well-being, and their beautiful coat makes them well-adapted to outdoor life. They are not fully grown until the age of five. They are easy to groom, since their coat resists matting. Normally, weekly brushing is enough. During heavy shedding in the spring, daily brushing is required. |