Siberian

Siberians have an easygoing, unflappable nature. They are well-suited to busy households and love being around other pets and kids. In fact, Siberians don't like to be alone and prefer to live in a two-cat home. The buddy system is the way to go for these friendly felines.

Acrobatic by nature, Siberians regularly wow their families with their impressive leaps, agile maneuvers, and balancing acts. It's not uncommon to find them on top of the refrigerator or tiptoeing across a cluttered shelf. They're also very playful and will turn any available object into a toy. But they like their downtime, too. Siberians make excellent couch buddies and snuggle partners.

This intelligent breed is a skilled problem solver and can learn how to open doors or cabinets—especially if they know there is something of interest on the other side. Siberians are famous for their emotional intelligence, as well. They often sense if someone needs moral support and take it upon themselves to be there for their humans.

Siberians require a high-quality diet. Because nutritional needs vary for kittens, adults, and senior cats, opt for a formula that's age-appropriate for your pet.

To prevent overfeeding, monitor your cat's food intake and reduce portions if they start to gain weight. And remember to count treats. As a guideline, they should make up no more than 10% of a cat's daily calories.

Besides regular meals, easy access to fresh, clean water is a must for any cat.

Despite their thick triple coat, Siberians don't shed very much. Brushing once or twice a week is usually enough to prevent tangles. However, these cats do molt twice a year. During such periods—which last about 10 days—they require daily brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

Routine nail clipping is also important, as nails that get too long are more likely to snag on something and become torn or damaged. Overgrown nails can also grow into your cat's paw pads, leading to pain or infection. In addition to clipping, providing a scratching post will help keep their nails in good shape and satisfy their instinct to scratch.

Finally, dental hygiene is an essential component of every cat's care. The sooner you start your Siberian on a routine that includes at-home teeth brushing, the better. They should also regularly see a veterinarian for exams and professional cleanings.

Roughly one out of every three cats in the United States is overweight or obese. And those extra pounds can contribute to other health risks, such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart problems. Besides keeping your Siberian's weight in check, screening for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is also wise. This condition decreases the heart's efficiency and can lead to other issues. Your veterinarian is your best resource for discussing these and other health concerns for your cat.