Siberian cats are known for their thick, luxurious coat, affectionate nature, and their impeccable athletic ability. Often referred to as gentle giants, these fur beauts attract many first-time pet owners, but what about their daily requirements and overall maintenance levels?
Siberian cats are considered higher maintenance compared to other regular cats. These cats need a little more than just food and water to be happy. Apart from their physical needs, they are more attached and socially dependent. Making it difficult for people with a tight schedule, to provide the level of care they require. Their most demanding requirement is their need for companionship and affection.
It’s important for first-time owners to understand the responsibility and the level of care the Siberian breed requires before they actually choose to buy or adopt.
There is a misconception that cats are relatively low maintenance, however, with the Siberian breed being more active and dependent, they do require more care than regular household cats.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this breed higher maintenance compared to regular household cats.
What Makes Siberian Cats High Maintenance?
1. Their Triple Layered Coat.
Siberian cats are extremely fluffy and have a very dense coat. With three layers of fur, their coat is waterproof and serves as insulation during the cold winter period. With such an immense amount of fur, shedding is inevitable.
While some Siberian cats don’t shed that much, some do shed regularly as clumps of hair fall off. This is normally temperature-related since the cat molts in warmer seasons to better handle the heat.
This means that if you are located in an area that’s warm throughout the year, be prepared for excessive shedding and daily grooming.
Apart from the shedding, they also require regular brushing 2-3 times per week to prevent mats and tangles from occurring since they are long-haired. They also need baths twice a year to maintain a healthy coat.
2. Highly Affectionate And Attached.
Siberian cats are very attached and involved. They are not the kind of cats that will be satisfied with just food and water. They exhibit almost Dog-Like behavior which requires more hands-on interaction.
They will follow you around your home and greet you at the door just to be close to you. They love affection in the form of cuddles and close interaction.
Ultimately the breed is very social and will blend perfectly into families. The only problem is that it’s difficult to get some alone time since they are very socially dependent.
Therefore, you need to give them time and attention. They thrive on companionship and company in general. Siberians hate being alone, so if you don’t intend on spending quality time with them, then the Siberian breed might not be a good fit.
3. Siberians Cannot Handle Heat.
Siberians are so well adapted for the cold that they cannot tolerate heat. They have immense fur and cannot keep themselves cool in warmer temperatures.
Even though they molt in the summer, they still require help keeping cool.
Ideally, they require a room temperature of around 75° Fahrenheit especially during summer, however never expose them to temperatures higher than 90° Fahrenheit.
You will also need to take precautions by providing them with cooling blankets, taking them to a groomer, or even taking alternative steps in making sure they remain comfortable.
Normally owners add ice to the cat’s food and replace their normal water with colder water. This is just a preventative that helps against overheating.
4. Need Attention and Playtime.
Siberian cats are super active and are just natural athletes. Their intelligence and curiosity allow them to be more adventurous and playful.
This means that they need a lot of stimulation and good quality playtime. Toys alone won’t satisfy their instinctive urge.
Rather they need active involvement from their human counterparts. This is one of the many reasons they can’t be alone for too long. For this reason, many Siberian owners get another cat as a companion.
So if the Siberian breed is a choice for you, be prepared to set out some time every day to keep them satisfied and happy.
5. They Prefer Outdoor Time.
Siberian cats are agile and need room to explore. They are big in size and indoors may restrict their activity levels putting them at a higher risk of obesity.
For this reason, it’s recommended that these cats have time to safely roam outdoors to explore and jump around. Siberians are strong jumpers with swift movements, therefore the outdoors are more compelling.
You may also need to walk them if your home is not big enough.
Is The Siberian Breed Right For Me?
While the Siberian breed is quite a great choice, it may not be so for all people. Some people may prefer a pet that is less active and passive while some may prefer a pet that is more engaged and affectionate.
Siberian cats are perfect for people who enjoy companionship and affection. If you looking for a cat that is consistently around you then the Siberian cat is the one.
They are great at providing emotional support and knows exactly how to help in time of need. Therefore they are well suited for those in need of emotional support.
Siberians are also perfect for homes with kids around, they love the engagement and fun of company. As long as they are treated respectfully.
Ultimately They will do well in homes where play is encouraged and when they are socially stimulated. So if you are able to put in some time in making sure they are always involved and included, these beauts will thrive.
Pros And Cons Of a Siberian Cats.
| PROS | CONS |
| 1. Extremely loyal | 1. Can be socially demanding |
| 2. Highly affectionate | 2. Seasonal molting |
| 3. Great for allergies | 3. Need a lot of stimulation |
| 4. Easily trained for games | 4. Very Talkative. |
| 5. Love water | |
| 6. Very intelligent. |
