Although their appearance and nature is somewhat similar to that of the Norwegian Forest cat and Maine Coon cats, Siberian cats are not as popular. Outside of Russia and the former Eastern Bloc, they are not well known and are not seen very often. In our country, we have a good (but not very large) breeding base. Not much is known about the origin of the Siberian cat.
It is assumed, however, that in Siberia these beautiful cats with furry ears and glossy semi-long hair have existed since time immemorial. Their ancestors are probably Angora cats or Norwegian Forest cats that bred with local domesticated cats with short fur.
Compared to the Norwegian Forest cat, the Siberian cat has a much rounder and shorter head, but both breeds share a passion for climbing. The Siberian cat will not allow intrusive cuddling, although it does enjoy care and stroking. It tries to keep its dignity in every situation. They can be good partners to both dogs and children if boundaries are set to allow the cat its space and quiet, as it has a very calm and pleasant nature. Thanks to its wild origin, this cat is hardy, quite inventive and independent and, unlike most other breeds, it's not afraid of water.
The advantage of this furry pet is that its coat is self-cleaning, repelling water and dirt, so caring for it doesn't require much time. On the contrary, excessive brushing could damage it and release too much underfur. It's sufficient to brush it once a week and to comb critical areas where clumps tend to form, such as behind the ears, on the chest and between the fore legs and hind legs. They also have the same style of shedding as the Norwegian Forest cat, namely intense but short shedding in the spring. This is the only time that their fur requires extra care to keep the loose hair from the underfur from getting tangled in the topcoat.
A short, triangular head with a wide nose is considered to be the beauty ideal in this medium-sized, muscular breed. Unlike the Maine Coon cat and the Norwegian Forest cat, the Siberian cat can come in natural colors as well as in chocolate or lilac. It can also be found with Himalayan points, but in these cases it is recognized as the related breed Neva Masquerade.
Can someone compare the Siberian cat and the Norwegian Forest cat? In what way are they most similar, and how are they most different?
Allegedly, fast is instinctively practised by both wolfs and wild dogs. This has led many people to that assumption, that our dog on the couch should, once in a while, be fasting as well. A wild animal surely knows what it is doing, nature is wise, you...
In this cycle, we will get to know interesting dog personalities. Dogs play an important role in our life, so let us take a look what they have already achieved during our life together. We should find Hachiko in the dictionary next to the phrase...
Markéta is my long-time friend. We got to know each other through a shelter, from which I took my first dog and where I then started to help out. Under this association, Markéta runs a depository for cats in Prague, where I like to go when I have a bit...
Have you ever wondered how much movement is healthy for your dog and when it can be harmful? Or that not every movement is beneficial? Most dog owners never think about this. It’s said that the more you move, the better. But this is not always true.
As I mentioned in previous articles, I occasionally help out my friend Markéta, who runs a cat shelter. I had the opportunity to take part in several humane trappings for stray cats and would like to share the experience with you today.
Did you know that even your pet dog can suffer from depression? As with people, we shouldn’t underestimate the mental state of our dogs. How to recognize it and what to do about it?
In this cycle, we shall take a look at how cats and dogs are getting along in the world. Where people nurture and spoil them, or on the contrary they suffer and their situation is critical. Today I would like to introduce you to the cats of Greece,...
The approach of warm sunny days will surely entice many people to go for long walks. Many of us take our four-legged companions on vacation. It’s during these times that we should be careful about sunstroke, both for us and our dogs. How can we prevent...
Just like with people, being overweight can have a negative impact on a dog’s health. Preparing the right diet and amount of food to give them can sometimes be, however, like pure alchemy, and so your dog can start to become obese. If this is the case...
There seems to be more and more ticks year after year. Fortunately, the ways to protect our furry friends, whether dogs or cats, against these parasites are growing. Everyone can choose what product fits best for them and their four-legged companions.
Until recently skinny guinea pigs were relatively rare in our country. Word about them is quickly spreading, however, and they have become a sudden hit among breeders. What’s it like having these guinea pigs and what do they like to eat?
The kidneys perform one of the most important functions in the body - cleaning the blood. Due to their small intake of water, cats are more burdened than other animals and therefore suffer quite often from kidney problems the older they get.
