Siberian cat temperament & health

Siberian cat insurance

Is the Siberian cat the right cat breed for you?

Siberian cat owner’s guide

The Siberian cat combines wild looks with a friendly nature. With their luxurious coats and playful personalities, they make ideal companions for families, couples, or solo cat lovers alike.

Siberian cat quick facts

Size: Medium to large
Lifespan: 11–18 years
Weight: 3.5 - 8kg (males are typically larger)
Coat: Long, thick, triple-layered
Characteristics: Affectionate, playful, intelligent, confident
Common diseases and health problems: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), dental issues
Country of origin: Russia

Fluffy grey and white Siberian cat with bright blue eyes laid on the floor.

Where does the Siberian cat come from?

The clue’s in the title. Originating from Persia (modern-day Iran), the Persian is one of the oldest cat breeds, which can be traced back to the 1600s. Imported into Europe, they became popular among nobility thanks to their luxurious coats and elegant appearances. They’ve since been selectively bred to enhance their distinctive flat faces and long, flowing fur.

Looking for cat insurance for your Siberian cat?

Protect your Siberian with peace of mind from Agria.

Find out more Get a quote

What is a Siberian cat’s temperament?

Siberians are affectionate and good-natured cats. While they’re not especially vocal, they’ll communicate with gentle trill noises, chirrups and purring.

Loyal

They form strong bonds with their humans and will often follow you from room to room.

Social

Siberians usually get on well with other cats, dogs, and children, making them a popular choice for family homes.

Interactive

Siberians are clever and playful, so they enjoy games, puzzles, and interaction.

Are Siberian cats affectionate?

Yes, Siberians are known for being affectionate without being overly demanding. They often enjoy lap time, cuddles, and being close to their humans.

Do Siberian cats like to be held?

Many do, especially if they’ve been well socialised and handled as kittens. Siberians are often relaxed and floppy when picked up. But like all cats, it depends on the individual.

Siberian cat training and exercise

Siberians are active and intelligent, so it’s important to keep them stimulated. Here are a few ways to keep them happy:

1
Use interactive play
Use wand toys, laser pointers, or puzzle feeders to keep them engaged.
2
Give them somewhere to climb
They love to climb and jump, meaning cat trees or shelves are ideal.
3
Keep it varied
Rotate their toys to keep them interested.
4
Make is social
Siberian cats thrive on human interaction, so they’ll enjoy some daily playtime.

Are Siberian cats good hunters?

Yes, Siberians have strong hunting instincts and will often hunt anything going, including spiders or other insects, around the house. They love chase games and often do well at interactive play.

Are Siberian cats indoor cats?

Due to their price tag and friendly nature, Siberians can be at risk of theft if they’re left to roam outside. Thankfully, they can live as indoor cats happily enough as long as they’ve got enough enrichment, space, and attention. If you want to give them outdoor access, a secure garden, catio, or lead training (if they’ll tolerate it) is ideal.

Siberian cat appearance and size

What does a Siberian cat look like?

Siberians are large, muscular cats with expressive eyes, thick triple coats, and ear tufts that look a bit like a wild lynx. Their fur is water-resistant and comes in many colours and patterns. They often have a ruff around the neck and plumed tails.

How big do Siberians get?

Males can reach 6–8kg, with females around 3.5–6kg. They grow slowly and may not reach their full size until they’re about 4 or 5 years old.

Fluffy ginger Siberian cat with Blue eyes sat on a chat.

Siberian cat grooming

How often should you groom a Siberian?

You should aim to brush your Siberian twice a week, or more during their shedding seasons. Use a wide-tooth comb or slicker brush. Many Siberians enjoy being brushed if you start early enough and get them used to it.

Do Siberian cats shed?

Yes, Siberians shed heavily during spring and autumn. Regular grooming is key to avoid mats and hairballs, especially around the belly and underarms.

Are Siberian cats healthy?

Generally, Siberians are a healthy breed. However, like many cats, they can be prone to a few health issues. Some ones to watch out for include:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
A heart condition found in many large breeds.
Dental disease
Regular brushing and vet check-ups help keep their teeth in good shape.

Always choose a breeder who screens for inherited health issues.

Buying a Siberian kitten

Siberian kittens are lively, curious and affectionate. Before you bring one home, it’s a good idea to kitten-proof your home to keep them safe as they explore.

Where can I buy a Siberian cat?

Start with a reputable breeder who prioritises health, temperament and socialisation. Meet the kitten’s parents and ask about HCM screening. You can also check breed-specific rescues, though Siberians are less common in shelters.

How much does a Siberian cat cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere between £700 and £2,000 for a pedigree Siberian kitten in the UK. Prices vary depending on things like the breeder, lineage, and colour.

What should a Siberian kitten eat?

Stick to the breeder’s food initially to avoid tummy upsets and make sure they’ve been wormed, vaccinated, and checked by a vet. Early handling and positive experiences are key to raising a confident adult cat.

FAQs about Siberian cats

Siberian insurance with Agria

With Agria, it's lifetime, every time

At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.

So, whatever happens throughout your Siberian cat's life, we’ll always be there for you and your cat!

Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.

Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year

So your cat can get the care they need.

We pay 98% of claims*

And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your cat.

No increase in your premiums when you claim

So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.

Free vet video calls, 24/7

Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.

Get a quote

Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.

*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.

Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.