Got a Siberian? Check your pet with Pawcode
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Cats
Siberian
Russia's dog-like forest cat with a triple coat.
The Siberian is Russia's national cat: a powerful, agile breed with a dense triple coat and a playful, affectionate personality. Naturally developed over centuries in a subarctic climate, it is often cited as more tolerable for allergy sufferers.
OriginRussia
SizeMedium to large
Life span11–18 years
Weight4.5–9 kg (10–20 lb)
CoatLong, water-resistant triple coat
Temperament & personality
- Playful
- Affectionate
- Agile
- Fearless
Siberians are athletic, adventurous and dog-like — they fetch, follow their owners and often enjoy water. They are affectionate and patient with children and other animals, yet retain a bold, curious streak and love climbing and problem-solving.
At a glance
Activity level2 / 3
Affection3 / 3
Shedding3 / 3
Grooming needs2 / 3
Vocalness1 / 3
Scale: low to high (1–3)
Grooming & care
The triple coat needs weekly grooming most of the year and daily attention during two heavy seasonal moults. Despite the volume of fur, it resists matting more than a Persian's. Provide sturdy climbing structures for this agile jumper.
Common colours
- Brown tabby
- Silver
- Red
- Black
- Colourpoint (Neva Masquerade)
- White
Good with
- Families
- Children
- Other pets
- First-time owners
- Apartment living
Health tendencies to watch
Every breed has predispositions. These are things worth discussing with your vet — not diagnoses.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the main breed concern
- Generally robust with good genetic diversity
- Watch weight given their sturdy build
- Some individuals produce less Fel d 1 allergen than average
Informational only. Pawcode is not a veterinary service and does not replace professional advice.
Fun facts
1
Siberians are frequently recommended for allergy sufferers due to lower Fel d 1 levels
2
The colourpoint variety is called the Neva Masquerade
3
They are exceptional jumpers, capable of leaping to high shelves with ease
Frequently asked questions
Are Siberian cats hypoallergenic?
No cat is fully hypoallergenic, but Siberians often produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen, so many allergy sufferers tolerate them better.
Are Siberian cats affectionate?
Very. They are playful, people-oriented and dog-like, often following their owners and joining family activities.
Similar breeds
Siberian EMS colour codes
Only the varieties FIFe actually recognises for each breed.