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Thursday 2 June 2011

Salway Siberians





Back in 2003 was when I first discovered there was such a breed of cat that existed.  With my daughter allergic to cats I was looking for a solution , this was my answer. The Siberian cat of Russian origin, something we both share. Not only are they absolutely stunning in their looks, their hypo-allergenic qualities was my main attraction. Personality is definitely something they aren't lacking in either. Smarter than your average dog, once you meet one in real life, you will understand why I fell instantly in love with the Siberian cat!




Hypo-allergenic You Ask?
While there is little scientific evidence, breeders and pet owners claim that Siberians can be safe for many allergy sufferers. The protein, feld1 is substantially low in Siberians, therefore most allergy sufferers can live with one unaffected. In my 8 years experience this is true for some but unfortunately not for a small percentage of others. It is best if you can make sure that you and a Siberian are compatible by spending time with one before adding one to your family to determine if you are allergic or not.


Brittany with Nikita


When will my kitten be ready and what do I need to be ready?
What you will need to begin life with kitty:
Food and fresh water daily – kitten food up to the age of 1 year then slowly change to adult.
Litter pan and litter – covered pans keep the odor in. I use pine pellets for litter. 
Cat carrier -  purchase a medium size and plan for the future. Siberians grow to be large. 
Grooming supplies – brush and comb, nail clippers (never cut into the pink)
Cat furniture – the taller the better  
Toys – Put away feather toys after each playtime session where they cannot be reached.


Ivan with his winter coat


Kittens are very adaptable, but going to a new home can be stressful. No home would be complete without plenty of toys to distract kitty from playing with something inappropriate. Boxes make great hiding spots and crumpled up paper balls make great home made toys. You can get creative without it costing a fortune. The dollar store is a great place to buy toys as they are inexpensive and you will find that kitties toys often go missing. The best amusement for a kitten is another kitten. A feline companion will teach them appropriate play, participate in grooming and keep them company especially if you work out of the home and are away all day. These kittens will typically be more destructive and more insecure. When you want to bring home a kitten, bring home two. They will both be happier and more loving to you.


Sparkles with her brother Dimitri

At the age of 16 weeks your kitten will be ready to come to his/her new home. He/she will have already received vaccinations at the age of 12 wks, including de-worming. At the age of 14 wks they will receive their 2nd set of vaccines, spaying or neutering, rabies and micro-chipping if you decide you want that done. I encourage having this done especially if there is a chance that the cat could get outdoors.



 When will my kitten be ready and what do I need to be ready?
What you will need to begin life with kitty:
Food and fresh water daily – kitten food up to the age of 1 year then slowly change to adult.
Litter pan and litter – covered pans keep the odor in. I use pine pellets for litter. 
Cat carrier -  purchase a medium size and plan for the future. Siberians grow to be large. 
Grooming supplies – brush and comb, nail clippers (never cut into the pink)
Cat furniture – the taller the better  
Toys – Put away feather toys after each playtime session where they cannot be reached.




A Few Fun Facts for New Kitten Owners …
Siberians love company! 
They make exceptional companions. A belly rub is always enjoyed!
They also love water. You may want to leave the toilet seat down. You may find them in the shower or the sink. Fresh water straight from the tap is especially tasty.
They need to be groomed regularly, especially springtime as they molt their undercoat that keeps them warm through the Russian winters. Grooming is an opportunity to bond. 
We eat feather toys and almost anything we can get our paws on. In a cat’s eyes, all things belong to cats.
Providing the proper items for a cat to behave like a cat will discourage unwelcome behaviors. We are extremely good jumpers, climbers, hunters, and all around best cat to ever have!

Medusa


Siberians come in a rainbow of colors but at salway siberians we typically produce the colors you see.

Ivan


May 28th 2011 Anika went into Labor at around 2:00 in the afternoon and by 6:00pm she had 5 beautiful kittens. 

Will post pictures soon:) 




Thank you for reading my blog! Hopefully now you know more about the Siberian breed.