Why are Siberian cats hypoallergenic?
The reason for this is basically unclear, although the experience of many people testifies to the fact. One university in California (at Davis) is undertaking studies to test the theory that Siberians have lower Fel d1 levels than ordinary house cats. Fel d1 is produced by the sebaceous glands and is responsible for triggering allergic reactions. The results of the study aren’t in yet.
Is the Siberian hypoallergenic or non-allergenic?
Every breed of cat (even hairless) produces allergens, so no breed is non-allergenic. “Hypo” basically means “low”, so the risks of allergic reactions to Siberians is low.
How can I tell if I’m allergic to Siberians?
Spend some time with the adult cats – visit our Siberian cattery or request some adult cat fur be sent to you (if this seems to be best way of testing exposure). Mild or moderate allergy sufferers usually do okay, but those prone to severe reactions could still be at risk. Even so, severe sufferers can often tolerate a Siberian once the initial reaction settles down.
How do I reserve a kitten?
Get in early! You can reserve your kitten for a deposit of $100 on the understanding that, at present, we are only breeding once per year because Siberians are so new to Australia. Demand is increasing, but availability is still low. If you’re interested in the world’s best Siberians, please feel free to contact us.
Should I buy 2 kittens to keep each other company?
Two kittens are definitely better than one. When they are bought together as kittens they bond much more easily than when introducing a new kitten (or adult) to an older, already-established cat and they can keep each other company when you’re not able to be with them. This also makes the trip from our cattery to your home much less stressful for the kittens and less expensive in transport costs for you.
Breeder quality versus Pet Quality
Kittens used in breeding programs to maintain and improve the breed need to meet exacting physical standards for type and colour. These standards are set by cat associations and kittens are assessed at 6 weeks of age. Pet quality has no breeding rights and these kittens must be spayed or neutered.
What colours and patterns are available?
Siberians come in many colours and patterns, the most common being the brown tabby (often with white accents). Tabbies usually display the mackerel pattern (like a fishbone skeleton); or less commonly, a classic or marbled pattern (resembling circular swirls or bulls eyes). Other colours include silver, blue (dark grey), cream, red, golden, black, and white. As for patterns, there are many. A bi-colour is a solid colour with white; a Tortie is tri-coloured; and a Torbie is a tri-coloured tabby. There are also shaded and smoke patterns.
Does a cat’s sex affect its personality?
Differences are individual, not sex-based. A cat’s personality depends on its genetic makeup and how it was raised. Our kittens are socialised from birth with daily human contact and both sexes make great pets. The price is the same for either.
What is the process for socialising kittens?
The kittens live with their mother and with people from the beginning. They are handled daily to get them used to human contact from the outset. As soon as they can walk they are given freedom to roam around their nursery. When they become more independent at about 5-6 weeks old, their curiosity has also grown so they enjoy interacting with grown cats, kittens from other litters and people, not to mention toys, climbing apparatus and scratching posts. By the time they go home they have had the run of the house and are well-used to the busyness and sounds of a bustling household, including children and adults, dogs and noisy parrots.
When can I bring my new kitten home?
By three months of age the kittens are usually weaned, socialised and well-able to adjust to their new homes.
How are the kittens transported?
If you can’t personally collect your kitten, we can ship via to pet carrier to almost every major airport from Brisbane, allowing for extremes of cold or heat. Our Siberian Cat Breed Stock test negative for FeLV and FIV, with no known genetic problems, and come with a 12 month problem free guarantee on their congenital health. They have also had their first round of shots.
Does Siltorscha Siberian Cats offer a Health Guarantee?
Yes. We guarantee the health and temperament of each kitten at the time of purchase. All kittens come from FeLV and FIV negative catteries, have been checked by a vet, have had their first round of shots, all required worming treatments and are free of parasites and congenital defects. You are advised to arrange your own follow-up vet check within three days of receiving your kitten. On the long term, if your cat gets older … We can advice owners about health issues and share our experience with treatment options.
Will I be required to sign a contract or purchase agreement?
Yes. In addition to our health guarantee, below are some other conditions of the purchase agreement. If you would like to review the full agreement, please contact us.
All kittens sold as pets are to be altered by the time they are 6 months of age. Upon Breeder’s receipt of vet’s alteration certificate, Purchaser will be provided with registration papers.
- Kittens/cats are to be kept INDOORS unless being closely supervised.
- Kittens/cats are not to be de-clawed unless all other remedies are exhausted
- Kittens/cats are to be raised in a safe, clean, loving environment, free of stress and/or unnecessary confinement.
- Purchaser agrees to contact the Breeder immediately if unable to keep the kitten/cat. Breeder will assist Purchaser in placing the kitten/cat in another home.
- Breeder reserves the right to choose (or refuse) placement of any kitten/cat.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV) & Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Outdoor and feral cats are high risk to catch FeLV (Feline Leukemia), which is fatal, and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), compared to indoor cats. Our cats have been blood-tested for these diseases and this ensures their kittens will also be free from these at birth.
How big do Siberian cats get?
Siberians can be big when fully grown, most of which is accomplished by about 18 months, though they can take up to 5 years to fully mature. They are the second-largest breed, next to the Maine Coon, with the males weighing up to 14-15 pounds and the females 8-10 pounds.
What are the major physical differences between Siberians and other Forest cats?
Maine Coons are the largest; then Siberians; then Norwegian Forest cats. Siberians are more curved and rounded – head, eyes, ears, tail and barrel-shaped torsos. Maine Coons are more angular and squarish, while Norwegian Forest cats are definitely more triangular in their features.
What About Shedding and Grooming?
Start grooming the kitten around 5-6 months, before the heavy coat fully develops, and do it every two weeks. Your cat will get used to it and lots of cats love the regular one-on-one attention. In spite of their thick undercoats, Siberians don’t really mat except occasionally under their armpits and on their rear britches. Use a wide toothed comb and natural bristle brush, with talcum powder and mat-splitting brush for the mats, and remember to trim the claws. Siberians don’t shed as much as other long-haired breeds, especially in autumn and winter.
How will I know a good breeder?
Come visit us! Visit several breeders, if you can, and take note of the following: the cattery should look and smell clean, with adequate space, clean water, facilities and litter boxes; observe the kittens in their litters with their parents and, if possible, take time to interact with them to get a feel for their personalities and their degree of socialisation; check out the paperwork – pedigree, health and vaccination records, contract and health guarantee (a spay/neuter clause shows a reputable breeder); be prepared to answer personal questions intended to gauge your ability to look after a kitten/cat (this shows the breeder’s concern for the wellbeing of the kitten/cat beyond a mere business transaction). A good breeder will allow for all of these considerations.
What about the clawing issue?
Our kittens are trained from the beginning to use scratching posts – sisal rope posts are good. There are spray deterrents available to help discourage them from using furniture, carpet or curtains. Trim their claws every two weeks while grooming and be patient in training your kitten. Cats love to sharpen their claws and you can teach them how to do this properly and enjoyably.
What food and other supplies do I need for my kitten’s arrival?
We will send you a complete kitten care package for welcoming your kitten, upon receipt of your second payment as confirmation of purchase. This includes a supply and suppliers list as well as helpful tips on grooming, clawing issues, travel, behaviour and kitten-proofing your home. We try to keep you up to date with proceedings through emails with photos of your kitten up until they depart for their new home, to be with you.