This page deals with the Siberian Cat’s appearance with reference to the Siberian breed standard. Doing it this way makes the description more meaningful and more precise. I have chosen TICA standard. Standards vary slightly from Association to Association.
It is the breed standard and importantly its interpretation by show judges that ultimately dictates the appearance of a breed. I refer, for example, to the Modern Siamese and the Persian breeds. The appearance of these cats has evolved enormously under the direction of show judges who follow breed standards.
As I have mentioned elsewhere, the breed standards of the various associations use terminology that is a little difficult to follow unless you are a cat breeder. I hope to demystify the terminology by referring to the best illustrations of the best cats of this breed.
The Head (40 points)
This photograph has been cropped (for file size) and is linked to a fully framed and much larger version – click on the image please © Helmi Flick
The head shape is described as a “modified wedge“. This is a commonly used term. Either that or “triangular” or “rounded”, which are also commonly used. I confess that I don’t like the term “modified wedge”. It must mean a head that is broadly speaking wedge shaped and at the same time rounded as we are describing an animal and not an inanimate object. The wedge should obviously have a blunted tip (the nose and muzzle). The modifications are all associated with the fact that this is describing a cat’s head.
Deema above meets the standard I think. Deema’s ears are perfect 
The Siberian breed standard for ears is that they should be medium-large and tilt slightly forward and should be set “as much to the sides as to the top of the head”.
The hair furnishings (ear hair) should become longer from the middle of the ear and cover the base (perfect). Deema doesn’t have lynx tipping which is allowed.
Deema’s eyes also meet the standard I believe. The eyes should be almost round. The “corner” of the eye nearest the ears should be “angled up” and point to the base of the ear (definitely a “yes”).
Deema’s chin is well rounded and in line with her nose. Her muzzle (the snout) is the part of Deema’s face that protrudes and includes the nose, jaw and mouth. It is short in length (as opposed for example to the Modern Siamese), full and rounded. The transition between the sides of Deema’s face and her muzzle should be gentle and inconspicuous.
It’s a little difficult to see her profile from this angle but the top of her head is almost flat with a gentle curvature from forehead to nose. Just before the tip of the nose there should be a slightly convex (outward) curvature. Look carefully and Deema has this. {return to contents}
The Body (35 points)
Ben’s legs have substantial boning (big boned) and are medium in length. His hind legs are longer than his front legs
Ben has nice rounded, big feet with noticeable hair tufts (look at the trailing rear leg).
This is a good photograph to see if Ben’s tail is a little shorter than his body (it is – you pass again Ben my boy ).
Ben is a nice powerful and big boned cat. Overall he is a medium large cat. A charming combination of power with a sweet, pleasant expression.
The standard throughout hints at an impression of roundness. {return to contents}
The Coat (15 points)
Razo Martin has a WOW coat. Razo is a WOW cat. Razo has a moderately long haired coat, although it is not as long as some other long haired breeds such as the Persian.
The coat is triple layered. This must be in recognition of the origins of this cat, namely Siberia. The hair on Razo’s shoulder blades and the lower part of the chest is slightly shorter.
Razo does not have much of a ruff but Ben in the photograph above does. An abundant ruff is desirable under the standard.
The texture of the coat varies from coarse to soft. I would wager that Razo Martin has a soft textured fur.
The Siberian breed standard states that clear patterns are desirable. I take this to mean that there is a preference for patterns that are well defined. Razo Martin’s pattern is not as well defined as it could ideally be in my view. However the clarity of the pattern is secondary to the type of pattern and Razo Martin has a superb pattern.
As all colors are acceptable Razo is fine in this regard. The Siberian Breed Standard prefers strong colors and we certainly have that in spades with Razo Martin. {return to contents}
Other points: 10 for balance, condition and temperament.
Note:
I have covered nearly all (90%) of the breed standard here but not all. Some of the language used is mine. The key phrases are all taken from TICA Siberian Breed Standard.
Here is the full TICA Siberian Breed Standard.
Sources:
- TICA breed standard
- Helmi Flick Photographs
- Myself
From Siberian Breed Standard to All Cat Breeds
I believe the red cat’s name is Ruzo of Solacefarm. I have two of his grandsons living with me. A truly high-profile model and stud.
Thanks Marina.
How beautiful and majestic! I love Deema’s wild coat pattern and her sweet facial expression.
Me too. I love that wild cat/domestic cat look. She is sweet looking and her coat is practical for cold conditions. She is a very impressive cat. Imagine having her at home. She’d get some remarks from visitors.
Very beatiful photo! I have a Siberian cat. Thank you for nice picture!
My pleasure. Thanks for visiting and commenting.