‘Loyal’ and ‘energetic’ are the two words that most aptly define a Siberian cat. If you are planning to buy a Siberian cat or already have one, make sure to groom her properly. Their fluffy hair needs proper stimulation as the lack of it could mean irregular shedding of hair. Siberian cats are known for their charming behavior. From their physical requirements to understanding their temperament — it’s important to know certain key things before you choose to buy a Siberian cat. Due to their striking looks, they have gained huge popularity in recent years. Let’s try to understand ways to groom this playful and affectionate furry animal.
Some Basic Facts About Siberian Cat
Although there’s little clarity on their origin, it’s believed that Siberian cats have existed for at least 1,000 years on the earth. On average, they have a lifespan of 10-18 years and weigh approximately 3.5-8 kg. Their unique physical appearance comprises fluffy hair and a thick coat, and they are also available in varied colours and patterns. Known for their talent to catch rodents, the Siberian cat — as the name suggests — was first adopted in farms and shops in Siberia. After gaining TICA recognition in 1992, they were introduced in the US and UK around the years 2000-2002. They have a wizardly look and are one of the most fun-loving and friendly animals.
Gentle Giants With a Calm Demeanour
If you are worried about the temperament of Siberian cats, don’t! It’s because they are nothing but most fun-loving and affectionate feline friends. They have a unique quality of gelling well with all the family members and those visit the house. Like our amazing dogs, they are quite welcoming. So, whenever you come from the office or outside, be ready to be greeted by the furry friend. Contrary to their sturdy looks, the Siberian cats have a cute and soft meow. Its cutest laps and cuddles will not only melt your heart away but also destress your mind from day-to-day worries of life. Give them love and they will allow you to groom them easily; they are great at picking signals.
Grooming First Part: Setting up a Home
You must have a nice home for the cat, where it can explore the world and be itself. If you are about to bring the furry animal home, make sure you buy essentials like a litter box, food and water bowls and a nice bed to take good care of the Siberian animal. The litter box must be placed at strategic locations like a pantry or a secluded corner of the house, where the cat does the business in private. You must also buy a slightly bigger carrier for the Siberian cat because of their size. If the cat is too small for the carrier now, don’t worry it’ll fit soon as they grow fast. Once the cat is in, keep the carrier open and let it explore and familiarise the place.
Provide a Place for Adventure
The Siberian cats are known for their agility and high energy levels. They don’t do well in a restricted environment and need extra space to be themselves. Since they are strong jumpers, they like to explore high places. If you can’t keep them outside, your apartment should have extra space to accommodate them. Also, make sure the cat does enough physical exercises every day; those who don’t tend to be obese. Keep track of their movement when taken outside. There’s a high risk of injury in areas with high traffic or wild animals around. Also, keep precious household items away from its reach as the playful furry animal could unknowingly break precious items around the house.
Best Ways to Groom the Siberian Furry Friend
It’s important to take care of the Siberian cat. Make sure you groom her twice a week. Use a slick and soft brush and you’ll easily be able to brush its thick coats. Interestingly, the Siberian coats don’t mat or tangle so easily. These cats shed hair twice a year. This is the time when regular brushing should help avoid matting and tangling. The Siberian cats are meant for colder climates. It’s also important to protect the Siberian cats from the heat in warmer areas; they don’t do well in areas above 33 degrees Celsius temperature.
During summers, you can put ice in its water, remove its fur and keep a tab on its physical movements. Visit the vet if you notice any changes in its physical activity or if it feels uncomfortable while walking around the house. Bathing is also an essential part of grooming. Even if your cat does not like bathing, it’s important to bathe her at least when the coat gets dirty, if not every day. Bathing also protects it from various skin diseases. You can also use cat shampoo while bathing the furry friend. Making the cat aware of care habits is important. You should trim its nails once a week, clean its ears, brush its teeth and remove ticks and fleas in time before they get sick. It’s important to take it to the vet regularly. The Siberian cats are known to catch stomach issues like lymphoma. They are also susceptible to hereditary health issues called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Before buying a cat, you must check its health records to make sure its parents have not tested positive for the disease.
Feed Quality Cat Food to Your Siberian Cat
Feeding high-quality cat food is the most crucial part of cat grooming practices. The food intake will determine how well the cat will adjust to the new environment. The best food quality can ensure it does not catch diseases. However, it’s always recommended to feed the vet-approved food if you are a new owner. Keep a tab on its weight. The overweight Siberian cat must be taken to the vet to get a proper health check-up. Avoid serving the leftover food in the house, especially junk food, and maintain a particular diet plan for your feline friend.
