Is there really a hypoallergenic cat?
The term "hypoallergenic" cat and Siberian cat go hand in hand. The difference between "hypoallergenic" and "non-allergenic", is hypoallergenic is a much, reduced level of an allergen, whereas non-allergenic is the absence of an allergen. Siberian cats are regarded as the ONLY cat breed that can legitimately claim to be hypoallergenic, backed by scientific research. Other breeds are trying to make this claim, with nothing to back them up. This is due to their genetic makeup, missing a "link", which causes them to produce lower levels of the FEL-D1 protein, a common allergen found in cat saliva and dander. This protein in the saliva gets applied to the coat during the grooming process every day.
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Once the saliva dries, it flakes off and becomes the airborne irritant that triggers an allergic reaction in sensitive people. Many people who suffer with cat allergies can tolerate a Siberian cat very well, and never experience the typical symptoms associated with allergies.
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When you out-cross the traditional Siberian cat with another breed, you have the possibility of re-introducing the missing link that makes the Siberian so fantastic for people with cat allergies. All our foundation cats have been tested by a specialized biotech lab to make sure that we can produce low levels of FEL-D1 in our kittens.
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If you're considering getting a hypoallergenic cat, it's a good idea to research the breed thoroughly and, if possible, spend time using an allergen kit, before making a decision.
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DON'T be misled by FALSE CLAIMS by other breeds. CALL NOW for your own HYPOALLERGENIC Siberian kitten!
Allergy testing
For those considering adopting a Siberian kitten and wanting to test their allergies beforehand, we offer allergy testing kits, subject to availability. Each kit contains fur samples from a selection of our adult Siberians, along with complete instructions on how to work with the fur. This allows you to test conveniently in your own home at your own pace. Home testing is recommended for its accuracy, as your body is already acclimated to your home environment. Testing elsewhere could potentially introduce other allergens that may interfere with a "true" result, and give you a false interpretation. The kit fee is $50.00; non-refundable. To order a kit, PLEASE CONTACT US.
Siberian cat facts
What is the temperament and characters of a Siberian cat?
The Siberian has:
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An incredibly loving, gentle disposition;
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Can be playful - yet calm and mellow;
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Sweet, Angelic faces;
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A medium to long, silky coat;
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A neck ruff and a bushy tail;
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A strong, muscular build;
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Is generally low maintenance;
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Is extremely intelligent;
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Is one of the healthiest breeds around.
The Siberian is slow to mature. Their coats will thicken by their second winter, and they are not considered to be fully grown until their fifth birthday. Their coats come in many colors; brown, silver, red, cream, blue, black, calico and sunshine. Their patterning can be mackerel, classic, shaded, and smoke. They can be patched, solid, mixed with white paws and chest. A weekly combing is all that is needed to keep them looking their best.
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They are a healthy, hardy breed and get along wonderfully with other pets and children. They are more dog-like than feline. They adore human interaction and will develop a strong, loyal bond with their family. They are intelligent, will come when called, greet you at the door, and train easily.
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The Siberian is one of 3 "FOREST" cats, is one of the oldest "natural" breeds, and has survived for over 1000 years in their native Russia. In 1990, the first Siberian cat made the journey across the Atlantic Ocean to put its' first paw on American soil.
With their easy adaptability, gentle nature, and the fact that they are hypoallergenic, it's no wonder they are the PERFECT COMPANION CAT in any household - whether a large, young family, or an older couple!
Frequently asked questions
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we have received over our many years or breeding. If you have a questions that you do not see here, please don't hesitate to contact us. No questions is too small to ask - it could make a big difference to the happiness, safety and well-being of your new kitten!
How do I prepare my home for a new kitten?
Kittens have no "street smarts" - and should be treated like babies. Go through your home, especially the room where your kitten will be spending most of its time and look for hazards, like wires, and strings. Further down in the "documents" section, you will find more information on preparing for your new kitten such as keeping the toilet seat down, picking up toys from the floor and the need to immediately line up a good veterinarian - or maybe even two.
What are the immediate supplies needed for a kitten?
You will need a simple litter box, UNSCENTED litter - both people and cats are allergic to some with added fragrance, and a litter scoop. Bowls for food and water which should be 6" in diameter and made of metal - NOT plastic or glass. For food, I use Purina ONE dry cat food in the teal colored bag for all my cats and kittens, and a selection of canned food. A good cat carrier, and a few simple toys, like balls. If toys have feathers and strings, these should be cut off. If using a wand type of "teaser", be sure to use with supervision and put it completely away when not in use. A metal comb and a wire brush, along with a good scratching post.
Are your cats registered?
All our adults are registered with TICA (The International Cat Association); the largest cat registry in the world. This means that any kitten born in our cattery is also registrable. An owner can receive a paper to register their kitten once we have proof of sterilization.
Why is my kitten hiding and not eating?
It is normal for your kitten to be scared at first. Everything is different - new people, new smells, odors, and noises. It is not unusual for a new kitten or cat to NOT eat for the first 2 or 3 days. Work with your kitten. Bring her out, put her on your lap or right next to you on the couch for about 20 minutes at a time. Caress her, pet her and speak softly to her. After 20 minutes, let her go if she wants. About an hour later, do it again. Try to do this a couple of times in the morning, and a few times in the evening. Your kitten needs to learn that she is safe with you. She will start to come around in a couple of days. Do NOT alienate her! In the "QUICK NOTES" in the document section blow, you will find more information of what to do, what to expect and how to make the adjustment easier for her. Print it out, keep it handy, and go over it with everyone in the household.
Does a purebred Siberian kitten or cat need anything special?
No. Siberians have survived for hundreds of years living just fine out in the world in a harsh environment. Food, water, litter box, warm home, toys, occasional grooming and interaction with you; and lots of love is what your kitten needs from you!
When and how much should I feed my kitten?
Dry food, or "kibble", along with fresh water should be left out at all times! I recommend feeding a small amount of canned food in the morning, and a small amount of canned food in the evening. For a young kitten, one small can that is approximately 3.3 ounces, like Fancy Feast each time is more than enough. It doesn't keep well, and after a few hours dispose of what's been left. In approximately 5 or 6 months, you can drop down to feeding of one can a day. Keep it consistent. Either in the morning or evening, whichever is easiest for you. Just ALWAYS be sure they have access to a bowl of fresh water and kibble to graze on during the day.
Are the kittens vaccinated? Do they have all of their shots?
Kittens will have their first round of vaccinations, or age-appropriate vaccinations when you receive them. This will be noted in their health booklet that is given to you at the time of purchase. Kittens will NOT have had "ALL" their vaccines. The next date for a vet visit or for a vaccine will be noted in the health booklet. Check with your vet on a schedule for the upcoming vaccines, but generally kittens leaving us need another two rounds of vaccines - one month apart from each other, and then another round one year after the last kitten vaccine.
Are they already fixed (spayed or neutered)?
No, they are not. There are different schools of thought on this subject, and not all vets are comfortable, or agree with, or with performing early spay/neutering. I generally recommend altering a cat between 10 and 12 months of age. This way they are pretty much fully grown and developed. The cat, especially a male, will benefit by having its' interior "plumbing" much better developed.
When do they need to go back to the vet?
This depends on when the last vaccination was given. The week they should go back will be noted in the health booklet that you receive.
Are they purebred? Do they come with papers?
Yes, all our cats are purebred traditional Siberian cats, and all our adults cats are registered with TICA (The International Cat Association). No, they do NOT immediately come with papers. According to TICA, papers should NOT be given until proof of spay/neutering is provided by the new owner. This practice is put in place to help stop the inexperienced "backyard breeder" industry, and people who want to breed their cat "just once" for the experience. A lot of things can go wrong with that "just once", and most people are not prepared with the knowledge needed to properly assess a situation, never mind knowing how to handle it. When we receive proof of the spay or neutering, we will gladly ask TICA for litter registration. When we receive the forms, we will send you the papers that you need to register your cat.
I have other animals in the house. Will the kitten be OK with them?
Most animals, including dogs, can pose a real risk to your new kitten. Although Siberians get along well with other pets, extra care needs to be taken while it is still young and small. Older, larger animals or dogs may play too roughly and can injure or even kill your kitten. When a kitten is very young, and doesn't have all of its' series of vaccines, it is very vulnerable to pathogens. Other animals in the home that have outdoor access can pick up all kinds of germs, viruses, bacteria and parasites from outside and transfer them to your new kitten. You need to stay alert should you notice a change in your kitten, and call your vet.
What about other people or friends handling my new kitten?
The first few days of a kitten's new life in your home should be as stress free as possible. We strongly recommend that only family members interact with the kitten until it feels comfortable in its new surroundings. Just like other cats and dogs being able to transfer pathogens to your new kitten, so can people. Things like Covid and bird flu are transferable from clothing, shoes, and bags from grocery stores. Besides washing your hands after handling things from outside the house, or from the store, anybody coming into your home wanting to interact with your new kitten should wash their hands extremely well, especially if the have pets in their own home.
Informational documents
Below you will find a listing of documents to help you along your journey with living with a feline friend. From what you need to do before she arrives, to what you need to buy to make her life, and yours more comfortable, along with hazards to watch out for, explanations of diseases, vaccines and much more. It is advisable to print out a few of them to do a checklist of kitten or cat proofing, and some to go over with the whole family of what to expect, and what to do to keep your kitten safe. Keep them handy for quick reference.
If you are looking for additional information, or information on an issue that is not listed in the topics above, please feel free to contact us, so we may be of help to you.
Embrace the Elegance!
