Known to be an exceptionally high jumper, the Siberian is a strong and powerfully built cat, with well proportioned characteristics that include strong hindquarters and large stomachs. They typically weigh between 15-20 (6.8-9.1 kg) pounds for the males, or 10-15 pounds (4.5-6.8 kg) for the females, and carry their weight differently than other large breeds such as the Maine Coon - they tend to be shorter and stockier even though they can attain the same weight. Also, Siberians typically attain their full growth more slowly, over their first 5 years. They have an average life span of 12 to 15 years
While Siberians are a fairly recent introduction to the US and thus relatively rare, though popular, the breed can be seen in Russian paintings and writings hundreds of years old. This sets them apart from breeds that are the result of fairly recent selective breeding
Siberians are generally intelligent, playful, affectionate and loyal, leading many to describe their character as dog like. Their fur is plush, can have a wide range of coloration, and does not have a tendency to mat.
