Buying Advice

Is a Siberian Cat for me?

Siberian Cats are medium to large and surprisingly heavy for their size. They tend to be a hardy cat. They do not require a great deal of grooming but do have seasonal moults in spring and autumn. Although Siberians are 'natural' cats they have not been found to be wild or destructive. In common with most other pedigree breeds it is preferable for a Siberian to have an indoor home or a home with a secure run or garden. Most Siberian owners will testify to the dog like devotion of their cats, they are also a very playful and intelligent breed, which socialises well with other cats and are happy to share their home with dogs and other pets.

Finding Your Siberian

The Siberian Cat Club has a list of breeders on this website who will be happy to assist you in your search for a kitten. When looking for a kitten contact a number of breeders to begin with to get an idea of availability and price. Always make an appointment with the breeder before you visit and let him or her know if you change your plans. You may wish to see more than one litter before you make your choice. Never go from one breeder to another without a wash and a change of clothing as you could be the cause of cross infection. Breeders should be happy to show their kittens without compelling you to buy. However, don't expect a breeder to keep a kitten for you indefinitely. You may be expected to pay a non-returnable deposit if the kitten is to be reserved.

Breeders put a lot of time and energy into caring for 'Mum' through her pregnancy and then raising the kittens, so it is likely that they will ask some of questions about you and your life style to ensure that the kittens are going to suitable homes.

As well as choosing the kitten you like the 'look' of, take time to play with the kittens and get an idea of their personalities. You will often find that one kitten in particular will appeal to you and will, in fact, select you as its new owner. Make sure you discuss your choice with the breeder; if you are looking for a kitten to show they will be able to advise you on type and if you are looking to breed you will need to ensure that the kitten is registered on the active register with the correct authority.

Health and Happiness

Kittens should be sold with at least an enteritis inoculation and a full course of cat flu inoculations. They should also be registered with the GCCF (some breeders may also register with FIFE or TICA) and have a written pedigree supplied with the registration details. Kittens should be at least 13 weeks old before they leave the breeder.

When visiting a breeder always ask to see the whole litter (if possible), where the kittens are usually kept and to see the 'Mum' so that you can asses the condition of the cats and their environment for yourself. Watch out for signs of illness and don't be tempted to buy a kitten because you feel sorry for it. We recommend you never to buy a kitten from a pet shop.

The Club Committee does not endorse any one breeder and takes no responsibility for the conditions that the cats and kittens are kept in. If a prospective owner feels that a breeders cats and kittens are at risk then please contact us and we will look into the matter.