Affectionate and social, Siberian cats are rated among the friendliest cat breeds. While most cat breeds originated in hot climates such as Egypt, the Siberian holds its native roots in frozen forests. Perhaps these charming felines learned to befriend humans and other animals out of determination to survive the brutally cold winters. Their mutually beneficial relationship with Russian farmers granted them food and shelter in return for pest control for their humans.
Today, these triple-coated cuties make one of the best companion animals, especially for multi-pet households and first-time pet parents. Here’s everything you need to know about a Siberian cat’s personality to know if they’d be a good match for you.
These cats like to be where you are. Siberian cat owners often comment on their pet’s tendency to follow them around the house to ask for attention. Despite enjoying cuddles and pettings, Siberian cats aren’t usually clingy and engage in independent play.
While not scientifically proven, pet parents often remark that their male Siberian cats are more affectionate than females, who they say act a little more aloof. A female Siberian cat will usually cuddle with their pet parents at their own pace, especially after they’ve settled into their new home.
While not as vocal as Siamese or orange tabby cats, Siberian cats still like to hold conversations with their pet parents. They also tend to purr a lot when they’re happy.
The Siberian cat experiences an extended adolescence. Like other cats, they reach sexual maturity when they’re around 4-6 months old, but they still exhibit playful kitten behavior until they’re around 5 years old. Their youthful antics can prove challenging for first-time pet parents but are usually manageable if they’re provided with mentally stimulating cat toys or scratching posts to keep them occupied. Siberian cats are considered to have medium energy levels.
Other pets, children, and additional family members usually don’t bother Siberians, who generally have a high tolerance for noise and strangers. Of course, like all cats, history and trauma heavily influences an individual cat’s personality. Their resilience also makes them a great candidate for apartment living or individuals who move a lot.
“Scaredy cat” doesn’t apply to this curious, courageous feline. Siberian cats don’t tend to shy away from strangers or unfamiliar noises. While they are social creatures who enjoy their human’s company, most Siberian cats are also comfortable being left alone all day.
These triple-coated felines are best suited for people with time to play, groom, and pet them. Their fluffy fur requires frequent brushing and their social nature thrives in households where someone is usually home. However, their adaptability also suits them for single-dwellers who move a lot, as long as the person has time to spend with them at the end of the day.
Also, despite their thick coat, Siberian cats produce lower levels of the Fel d1 protein responsible for allergic reactions in humans. Thus, they are usually considered to be a hypoallergenic cat breed.
Yes, they can. While Siberian cats are usually friendly with everyone, they tend to choose one person as their favorite companion.
Considered one of the friendliest cat breeds, the Siberian usually adapts to new people and pets faster than other felines. This cat usually gets along with dogs, too, especially if they were raised with them. While they are friendly to other animals, we still don’t recommend allowing them near species that can be categorized as prey, such as mice and hamsters.
Siberian cats are intelligent felines who are accustomed to hunting rats and other vermin. Supplying your kitty with enrichment toys such as catnip mice and scratching posts foster their physical and mental wellbeing—and keep their claws out of your sofa.
Siberian cats tend to be healthy. While they have a moderate risk of heart disease and kidney disease, their chances are much lower than other popular cat breeds such as Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and British Shorthairs.
Yes, Siberian cats are usually very affectionate and like to be held. Every cat is different though, and some Siberians might not be comfortable around humans, especially if they’re feral or have a traumatic history. If your cat isn’t fond of snuggling, be patient and enjoy the attention they do bestow on you in the meantime.
