Cat breed · Natural / Longhair
Siberian
A powerful Russian forest cat, athletic and affectionate, often mentioned in discussions of allergy tolerance — though no cat is truly hypoallergenic.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Natural / Longhair
- Origin
- Russia
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 4.5–9 kg (10–20 lb)
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–18 years
- Coat
- Triple coat, water-resistant
- Temperament
- AgileAffectionateAdventurousDog-like
History
Russia's native forest cat, documented for centuries and exported from the late 1980s.
Appearance
Substantial and rounded with a full ruff, tufted ears and a dense plumed tail.
Exercise and activity
Daily active play and tall, sturdy climbing furniture.
Care and grooming
Brush two or three times weekly, daily during the big spring moult.
Health considerations
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Gum disease
- Obesity
- Generally hardy
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Siberian
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Daily active play and tall, sturdy climbing furniture. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Polycystic kidney disease, Gum disease, Obesity), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice