The Siberian Cat: Russia’s Majestic Native Breed

The Siberian is no ordinary cat. Strong, intelligent, and characterful, it is considered a national treasure in Russia. But what sets the Siberian apart from other longhaired cats, and why is this breed so admired around the world?

A Native of Cold Climates

Siberian cats are known as a natural breed. That means they developed over time, without being designed by people. For centuries, they lived alongside humans in Russia’s forests, farms and cities, surviving harsh winters thanks to their thick, triple-layered coats and solid build.

Made for Survival

Everything about the Siberian's body is built for life in a cold environment. The dense undercoat offers warmth, while the longer, slightly coarse topcoat keeps out moisture. Their strong muscles and powerful hind legs help them climb, jump and hunt with ease. But despite their strength, they are surprisingly agile and gentle in nature.

How the Siberian Compares

The Siberian is sometimes confused with other longhaired breeds, such as the Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest Cat. Although they share some traits, there are clear differences:

• Face shape: The Siberian has a broad, rounded face with a soft trapezoid shape. The Norwegian Forest Cat’s head is more triangular.

• Body type: Siberians are slightly shorter and stockier than either of the other breeds, with a deep chest and strong bone structure.

• Coat texture: While all have thick coats, the Siberian’s is uniquely textured: plush underneath and firm to the touch on top.

Personality and Temperament

Siberians are known for their warm, confident nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are often described as intelligent, affectionate and curious. They are sociable without being clingy, and many enjoy playing, climbing and even splashing in water.

At Ammorina Siberians

We breed traditional Siberian cats, with a focus on health, temperament and classic type. Our lines are Neva-Masquerade free, keeping true to the original look and spirit of the Siberian breed.

If you would like to know more or enquire about our kittens, visit our kitten page, or feel free to get in touch. We are always happy to chat.

Traditional Siberians and Neva Masquerades: What’s the Difference?

Not all Siberian cats are the same. If you’ve spent any time researching the breed, you may have come across the term Neva Masquerade. These cats share some traits with the traditional Siberian, but they’re not quite the same, either in their origin or appearance.

In this post, we’ll explain what sets the two apart, and why some breeders choose to keep them distinct.

Where Did the Neva Masquerade Come From?

The traditional Siberian is considered a native or aboriginal breed. These cats developed naturally over centuries in Russia, living in villages, towns and farms, and adapting to harsh climates. Their traits; strength, resilience, and a thick protective coat, were shaped by nature rather than human design.

The Neva Masquerade, by contrast, is a more recent development. It was created in Russia in the late 1980s and early 1990s by crossing traditional Siberians with cats carrying the colourpoint gene (the same gene responsible for the pale body and dark face seen in Siamese or Ragdoll cats).

The name Neva Masquerade was chosen to reflect the dramatic look of the breed, a nod to the masquerade balls once held in St Petersburg, near the River Neva.

Key Differences

Although the Neva is recognised as a colour variation of the Siberian in many cat associations, there are some notable differences between the two types.

1. Eye Colour

• Nevas always have blue eyes due to the colourpoint gene.

• Traditional Siberians have a range of eye colours, including green, gold and hazel, depending on coat colour.

2. Coat Texture

• The coat of the Neva is often softer, sometimes described as more “cottony”.

• Traditional Siberians typically have a dense, water-repellent top coat with a springy undercoat.

3. Type and Structure

• Some breeders have noted that Nevas tend to have finer bone structure and a more delicate profile.

• Traditional Siberians are stocky, muscular cats with a broad face and strong jaw.

4. Breed Origins

• The Siberian’s roots lie in the natural Russian population.

• The Neva includes influence from other breeds, such as Siamese or old-style Persians, introduced to achieve the colourpoint effect.

Should They Be Considered Separate Breeds?

This has been debated for many years within the cat fancy. Some breeders and judges believe that separating Nevas from traditional Siberians would allow each type to develop more clearly, without compromising one another’s traits.

Others believe that the Neva Masquerade is simply a colour variant within the breed.

At Ammorina, we choose to work exclusively with traditional Siberians. We believe in preserving the natural, rugged look and temperament that make these cats so special. Our lines are Neva-free, ensuring consistency in health, structure, and coat type across generations.

That said, we appreciate that many people love Nevas for their striking appearance and sweet nature. They can make wonderful pets. But if you're specifically looking for a Siberian with traditional roots, it’s worth asking your breeder about the lines they work with.

A Note on Breeding Practices

In Russia, the conversation about Nevas and traditional Siberians has been ongoing for decades. Many experienced breeders, including Dr Olga Mironova and Elena Schevchenko, have voiced concerns about blending the two types too freely. They argue that while both cats are beautiful, they follow different breeding paths and should be respected as such.

As with any breed, responsible breeding involves clear goals, healthy lines, and a commitment to preserving what makes the breed unique.

Final Thoughts

There’s no need to choose sides. Both traditional Siberians and Neva Masquerade cats have their place. But if you’re looking for a robust, well-balanced, hypoallergenic cat with deep Russian roots and a natural, heritage look, the traditional Siberian remains a rare and precious breed, one we’re proud to preserve and promote.

Want to learn more about our cats?
Visit our cats page or contact us to make enquiries.

Are Siberian Cats Hypoallergenic? The Science Behind the Claims

One of the most common questions we’re asked is whether Siberian cats are hypoallergenic. If you're someone who loves cats but reacts to them, you may have heard that Siberians are a better option for allergy sufferers. But is it true?

Let’s take a look at what the science says and what you should consider before bringing one home.

What Causes Cat Allergies?

Most people who are allergic to cats are reacting to a protein called Fel d1, which is found in cat saliva, dander and skin oils. When cats groom themselves, this protein spreads onto their fur and skin, and from there into the environment.

Fel d1 is sticky and lightweight, which means it can linger in the air and settle on clothes, furniture and carpets, triggering sneezing, itchy eyes, or even asthma in sensitive individuals.

Are Siberians Really Different?

Studies have shown that Siberian cats tend to produce lower levels of Fel d1 compared to other breeds. This may be why many allergy sufferers report fewer or milder symptoms around Siberians.

However, the amount of Fel d1 varies from cat to cat, even within the same breed. It’s not something you can see or feel, and unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee a specific cat will be allergy-safe.

That said, the Siberian remains one of the top choices for people with cat allergies, and many families have successfully welcomed a kitten into their home after reacting to other breeds in the past.

What Makes the Siberian Different?

Siberians are a natural breed, meaning they weren’t created through heavy cross-breeding or selection for extreme features. Their immune systems, coat and overall physiology have developed over time, which may contribute to their unique balance of strength, health and lower allergen production.

Some breeders have also observed that neutering may help reduce Fel d1 levels, especially in males. Good hygiene, air filtration and regular grooming can also play a role in managing allergens at home.

How to Know If a Siberian Is Right for You

Because individual tolerance varies so much, we offer a T-shirt allergen test at Ammorina. You send us a clean shirt, and we expose it to one of our cats’ fur and saliva. When we return it to you, the person with allergies can wear it and see whether they react.

It’s not a perfect solution, but it often gives clearer answers than brief in-person visits or assumptions based on symptoms around other cats.

Learn more about the T-shirt test here

Final Thoughts

No cat is completely hypoallergenic, but Siberians are certainly among the most promising options for people with mild to moderate allergies. If you're drawn to their beauty, gentle nature and resilience and you’d like to explore whether one might suit your home, we’d be happy to talk it through with you.

You can see our available kittens here or Contact us to make an enquiry.

What to Expect When Bringing Home a Siberian Kitten

Bringing home a new kitten is an exciting moment but it’s also a big adjustment, both for you and your new companion. At Ammorina, we raise our kittens with love and care so they’re confident and well-prepared for home life. Here’s what you can expect when one joins your family, and how to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Preparing Your Home

Before your kitten arrives, it’s important to create a calm, safe space. We recommend:

• A quiet room to start in, away from household noise and other pets

• A cosy bed or blanket that’s easy to access

• A clean litter tray, placed away from food and water bowls

• Scratching posts and soft toys for comfort and stimulation

Kittens feel more secure with familiar smells, so we send them home with a blanket from their mother and littermates.

The First Few Days

The journey home and the change of environment can be overwhelming at first. It’s normal for your kitten to be a little shy, sleepy or cautious. Let them explore at their own pace, and try to keep the atmosphere quiet and gentle.

Spend time sitting near them and speaking softly. Let them come to you when they’re ready. Most Siberians are naturally curious and affectionate, so you’ll likely see them gain confidence quickly.

Feeding and Routine

At Ammorina, our kittens are weaned onto a fresh, premium-quality diet. We’ll give you full guidance on what they’re used to eating and how to continue feeding appropriately at home.

Try to stick to the same feeding times and litter tray location at first. Routine helps your kitten settle faster and reduces any stress.

Socialising and Handling

Our kittens are raised in a home environment, where they’re used to regular handling, grooming, and everyday sounds. This foundation helps them grow into calm, friendly cats.

You can continue this by gently introducing brushing, picking up, and short periods of play each day. Siberians are very people-oriented, and they usually enjoy spending time with their humans.

Long-Term Considerations

Siberians are intelligent, affectionate cats who thrive in homes where they’re part of daily life. They’re not especially needy, but they do enjoy companionship and interaction.

Because of their thick coats, you’ll need to brush them weekly, and more often during seasonal shedding. They’re also known to enjoy water, climbing and high places, so cat trees or safe shelves can help keep them enriched.

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a kitten is just the beginning of a long and rewarding relationship. At Ammorina, we’re always here if you have questions, whether it’s your first kitten or your fifth.

If you’re thinking about reserving a traditional Siberian kitten from us, you can learn more about our kittens and process here, or get in touch to join our waiting list.