My Sassa is 5.5kg healthy weight, some vets just say every cat is overweight at anything over 4.5kg and don't think about breed characteristics. Sibis also keep growing until 5 years old which is different to other cats.
There is a feline BMI calculator: https://www.omnicalculator.com/biology/cat-bmi
So I'm not sure if this helps- but I learned this trick by watching my barber...
I use one of those mat combs and I place it under the mat- so its between my cat's skin and the mat- parallel to her skin and as close to the mat I can get- and then I use either a safety electric trimmer or scissors to cut it- so if I make a mistake the metal comb is protecting her...
This is the comb I'm talking about:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077T1LQCV
Sorry to hear about your cat... good luck!
Yes!!! I just got thishere a month ago and it’s the best I’ve used on my Sib. Soooo much fur.
We use pine litter with our cats and we LOVE it. Minimal tracking, very little odor, and really easy to deal with. We buy the Trader Joe's brand or Feline Pine depending on what's convenient/on sale. Our cats do fine in the Catit Jumbo Hooded Litter Pan https://www.amazon.com/Catit-Jumbo-Hooded-Cat-Litter/dp/B003RQVGKC/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=catit+litter+box&qid=1620852464&sr=8-2, but honestly with the pine litter we don't really need the top.
Our cats enjoy fishing pole type toys the most, and they're fun for cat parents too :) We also have a couple small stuffies that our girl cat likes. Our boy cat mostly watches the toys go by, but drop a balled up receipt on the floor and he goes nuts.
We balance cheap and expensive food. Our boy cat developed diabetes (even on "high protein" dry food) so we only do wet or raw, and honestly knowing what I know now, I'll never feed a cat dry food again. They eat a combo of wet Friskie's pate and freeze dried Meat Mates raw.
A TALL cat scratching post, or a medium (or larger) cat tree is a must. Our cats like to stretch long when they scratch and the short posts just don't do the job.
Our cats don't have set beds and end up lounging on the back of the couch, so if you're sensitive to smooshed couch cushions I'd keep that in mind. They like a bit of height so giving them a perch with a vantage point is a good choice :)
That is a great idea thank you. I'll do that now and sorry I forgot to answer your litterbox question- I got it from a local supplier but I think this is it on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089YS4XG8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_KVQVHCTQH9S061VGF3MH
Mine loves to chase these around: sattelite cat toys. Petsmart sells them too but they come in a pack of 6, and 4 of them are a different kind.
Don’t forget scratching beds/posts! We had to show our kitten the first few times and continued to reward with treats every time for a couple weeks, but couch scratching has basically been a non-issue.
She liked this one as a small kitten because of the cubby holes, now likes to lay on it as she’s gotten bigger.
So I also have a single kitten and was worried at first but as long as you make sure to play plenty it should be fine! He's my first cat as well so it has been quite the adjustment lol, but it gets easier when you have a solid routine down.
First, please kitten proof! Your kitten will likely chew everything so take away unnecessary cords or buy cord protectors. It's good to have 1 room that is 100% safe, it really makes it less stressful.
This is also one of my kittens favorite toys https://www.amazon.com/PETFAVORITES-Foam-Soccer-Balls-Toys/dp/B00797JCJW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=38835F1DHBKKR&keywords=cat+soccer+balls&qid=1661270841&sprefix=cat+soccer+bal%2Caps%2C567&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1. They're soft foam balls that he loves to kick around, great for solo play or I throw them around when he has extra energy.
I'd also invest in a tall cat tree. My kitten is a total tree dweller and will try to get to the highest point possible. He also just loves to climb up and down it, so it also drains out some of his energy.
Last take lots of pictures!! They really grow up so quickly haha.
Ours (Lyla) is gonna be 1 year old on wednesday and she is like 10 ish pounds now? And I'm warning you right now, Emily will shed a LOT as she gets older, so make sure to brush her everyday. Also something that is really good for keeping her entertained is to get some coil toys (I'll put a link) because they roll around and bounce. It's one of the only toys lyla ever plays with😂 cat coil toys
You can try to use a de-matting comb gently (example), but sometimes I would have to cut part of the mat if its bad and then use the de-matting rake to get the rest out.
The perch is cool, I will buy the same brand for my Leo :) This one is cool: https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Products-Mount-Window-Kittyface/dp/B07CQVBS9G/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=K%26H+kittyface&qid=1611005169&sr=8-2
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and your cat is really adorable!
Do you mean water fountains? I have had two Pioneer Raindrop Stainless Steel fountains and while they were great when working, they both broke. I even tried buying replacement pumps and they also broke within half a year. They have a lot of nice stainless steel options and seem very popular so maybe I just had some bad luck.
Currently I have the Catit Flower Fountain and it's been going strong for over 2 years now. I will make a change to the stainless steel version though because one of my Siberians has been developing a zit once in a while on her chin so I'm trying to switch out any plastic bowls.
The Cat Owner's Manual (by Brunner and Stall). A clever, funny and very good book written for new cat owners. We have found it invaluable when we got our kats 12 years ago. Would highly recommend.
I would try canned wet food first if you haven’t. Making your own homemade food is not hard but also a bit of an art. There are lots of recipes online but get them from a good, reputable source and not just TikTok. Also if you do the homemade route, I recommend adding a supplement like this https://www.amazon.ca/Omega-Alpha-Nutrify-Food-Fortifier/dp/B00GKSDTEK But in the long run, too much dry can cause some serious health issues, so most people recommend wet.
This is what I've used and swear by it! I just run it through a few times a week as she's walking by. I don't make a big deal out of it, she tolerates it in small doses lol.
I think maybe distractions? Whether you live in an apartment or house, if you could set up a bird feeder outside to attract birds for him to watch from inside, that could help. There are also some robotic cat toys that might help: https://www.amazon.com/PetDroid-Interactive-Attached-Feathers-Available/dp/B07WHSGF4T/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=robotic+cat+toy&qid=1667684243&sr=8-5 My cats got bored of it eventually but I think it's helpful in the short term for the time gap. You could even turn it on right before you leave. (My mom's non-sib cat was scared of it though so just make sure your cats like like like my sibs do.) I got a second cat too for my first's separation anxiety and it fixed it!
I have both miau and the petkit (which appears to be on sale right now)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B088TF8MTV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I like them both alternating.
The petkit is nice because it is transparent enough to see water level dropping. It also has a smart feature that will blink. I like it because it cycles and does not always pump. It has a filter change warn as well.
I like the miau because it has no filter needed, can be cleaned in the dishwasher easily. One thing I did not care for is that the ceramic will have hard water build up - this is not a problem any longer because i use bottled water for the cats now. I also like that you can order an electric eye and it turns on when the cats come near.
here is the link! dander removal was much more effective for us than any switching of the diet kind of things. we feed a mix of freeze dried raw and tiki cat pates along with the allerpet. i have the kind of severe allergies that will make my throat swell and close up in a few minutes around cats and this is what works for me!
I make his food from bone-in chicken and salmon—cooked in the instant pot and weighed appropriately with pre-mix supplements. We tried raw but he did not seem to eat it all at once which led to a lot of food waste.
I can tell you that the type of leash helped us.
We first got that type that's just straps- she hated it.
We then got this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F8RY3C6
and she became comfortable in about 1 week. We would leave it on her in the house for a few hours, then take it off for that 1st week.
Funny thing is that the material doesn't really do anything, velcro is just there to make the material lay flat- the straps and clips do all the work, but maybe it made her feel more snug and safe?? who knows.
Hope this helps and good luck!
So my guy has this one https://www.chewy.com/frisco-76-in-xxl-heavy-duty-cat-tree/dp/240965.
Its not the prettiest but it is huge and he seems to like it, especially the hammock. The boxes are fabric with some stabilizer posts and not actually wood, but honestly it doesn't seem to matter too much. It is very sturdy too. I also have a armarkat cat tree that is supposed to be more premium. I like it but some of the shelves I feel like won't fit him when he turns into a adult (he's still a kitten, almost 6 months old).
In my experience the furminator doesn’t work very well. I’ve found that the graybound metal tooth combworks for each layer of coat. The points are rounded, so although it’s metal it does not run the risk of scratching them :)
I really love the furminator, and I find a classic groomers de-matter to work really well for mats. I pinch the mat at the skin and then gently brush at the mat from the end upwards and it'd fix them! I super recommend because I waited too long to get one. Also, I'm just assuming you may have mats because my kitty would get them in his arm pits and at his chest from tucking his chin in his sleep and your cats fur looks like it'd do the same tricksy business!
the only brush that has every worked for me is the furminator: https://smile.amazon.com/Furminator-Short-deShedding-Large-Standard/dp/B07MZD3ZVF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B0D7S6J84NHX&keywords=furminator+cats&qid=1659372759&sprefix=furminator+cats%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-1
Cute kitten and cute name!!
Wand toys for sure. I don’t like anything with feathers as I feel they come off too easily and I don’t want her eating them.
My baby also likes this
Churu cat treats are a huge favorite
Other random things I can think of at the moment are: elevated feeding bowls, a slicker brush, cat nail clippers, and a water fountain (they are more interested in drinking water when it’s moving)
So I agree with the bedroom thing- but I would suggest-
Get a 2nd litter box and put it in your main living area- for now. We had that for about 1 month and then moved it out of the way (ours had a lid so she would crawl in and you didn't have to worry about kitty litter).
I think having the litter box around encourages your kitten to hang around in the main living space. Also I got this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YKRPYJH
It's a tunnel and I put that in the main living space. When the kitten moves out of the bedroom you want them to feel protected and not hide under things... This tube in the middle of the room gave our cat that protection she needed in the beginning to just hang with us- AND it became a super fun run through space when playing- which our 3 yr old still plays with/ though.
Siberians love people so your kitten will come around. However not all Siberians are lap cats- mine is not. She will follow me around and sit right next to me... and sleep pushed up against me- but not hang around on my lap...
Good Luck!
We do the leash thing too- and she always looks at us like we duped her when we put it on, but when she is outside on a walk, she loves it. We also have a backpack for long hikes- she just likes hanging out with us and smelling the air..
BUT the real win was when we built a catio... I got this cage:
https://www.amazon.com/GUTINNEEN-Outdoor-Enclosure-Wheels-Resting/dp/B08HH5PBG4
And instead of the hole in the wall shown in the picture, we put a pet door in the window with a tube to the catio. We open it up at dawn and shut it down at around 11pm (or bad weather).
She loves it- goes in and out at will... I even put in a little scratcher with a basket on the top for naps. This has made her so happy.
Our adult cats love this “Wall Climber” which we mounted to the wall. It starts about 1.5’ above the floor and gives them something to scratch & climb on. Important to note … we did re-engineer it slightly. We had to re-align the platforms to give more room for our larger kitties to maneuver. I included a pic in the Amazon Reviews a few years ago.SmartCat Wall Climber at Amazon
my sib is also 6months and 10 pounds! after lots of research i went with this one:
https://www.chewy.com/frisco-595-in-heavy-duty-faux-fur-cat/dp/264647
If you go to reviews, you'll see a lot of heavier cats enjoying the tree too :)
It’s not this exact one (grey was more expensive), but it’s this one: AIVITUVIN Cat House Outdoor Catio Kitty Enclosure with Super Large Enter Door, Wooden Cat Cage Condo Indoor Playpen with Platforms & Small House-71 Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MTNHCDD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Z5G181S93D68WGMVHH3X
I got mine from Amazon (but this link is at Chewy). https://www.chewy.com/iris-top-entry-cat-litter-box/dp/183625
My boy is 12 lbs and growing and has no issues with feeling cramped, etc. with this box either.
I use this - works very well
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00AQ4D0MA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use a double-sided litter mat like this https://www.chewy.com/iprimio-cat-litter-trapper-ez-clean/dp/134598
It’s XL so my cat has to walk on it for at least a few steps to get out of its litter box. I still find stray pieces but it does make a huge difference
This one is super big and has high sides so they can't kick out or flip it over.
https://www.chewy.com/frisco-high-sided-cat-litter-box/dp/168284
I agree, that box is way to small for that size of cat.
PetFusion BetterBox Non-Stick Large Litter Box. Pet Safe Non-Stick Coating for Easier Cleaning & Superior Hygiene. Open Top Box Promotes Healthy Usage. Litter Pans Made of Stronger ABS Plastic, Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M31ZFKY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CAGGXC0Y0HATG2F99CSK?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My cats will do the same thing, they think is a game and will kick out all the sand/pellets leaving a mess everywhere on the floor. You definitely need an X-Large litter box that is covered or better yet has only a top entrance. I bought a couple for my cats and have not had a problem, no more messes! I got the little boxes off Amazon and they work wonderfully, yay!
We use something like this for our cats. https://www.chewy.com/iris-top-entry-cat-litter-box/dp/183624?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=16479499186&utm_content=IRIS&utm_term=&gbraid=0AAAAADmQ2V378rmVg10ev3-aKFAgaREfp&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkLmNxfG3...
They used to fling stuff all over. Check the size though.
We have a large covered litterbox - one of our cats is a tripod so he needs extra room to maneuver around, plus sometimes he gets his stance wrong and will accidentally pee over the edge of the box. Only discovered that when I went looking for the stanky pee smell and discovered a puddle under the litter mat. 🤢
We bought this one and it's been GREAT, though the clips get a little wonky at times: https://www.amazon.com/Petphabet-Covered-Litter-Hooded-Simultaneously/dp/B086W35FWK/ref=mp_s_a_1_10?crid=1BN5XUD18ICKM&keywords=covered+litter+boxes+for+cats&qid=1651175623&sprefix=covered+litter%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-10
Generally you don’t need a “litter box” Get a large plastic storage bin from IKEA and cut an hole on the side for an entrance/exit.
But Litter Locker (Litter Genie in the US) also makes a large one (22” long).
Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter Box System Starter Kit, XL Breeze Litter System With Pads & Pellets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083QPH4VT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_G3ZW6X6GQWVQRXV81T7A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got this one cuz 2/4 cats are too big for the standard xl boxes I have. It's twice the size. I just need to convince them to go on the pellets now. Unfortunately it's the tiniest cat that made the adjustment first so I still deal with messes.
I don’t have a Siberian or a large breed, but I got this JUMBO CATIT litter box for my cat & use World’s Best Litter, & my cat seemed very at peace with the arrangement! :3
The litter box itself is set on a rubber boot try. I also placed a mat in front of the litter box that’s designed to catch loose litter. :]
Your baby is a big boy/girl & needs larger accommodations <3
My cat used to do that until I bought him a bigger litter box.
This is the one I bought from Chewy and my cat is much happier with it. Hope it helps!
https://www.chewy.com/natures-miracle-just-cats-advanced/dp/47575
Enclosed top entry litter box is the way to go. IRIS USA Top Entry Cat Litter Box with Cat Litter Scoop https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B075VT99XF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9SJZ2BZJK9RJ4EC1MDZ6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 this is the one I had before I got a litter robot and it was great.
He needs a bigger box for sure!
We have this one from Amazon. It's perfect! Super easy to clean too. We have it inside a diy litter house, that my husband reword from a piece of furniture that used to be a record player holder. Keeps all the litter in one place for the most part. Still somehow find a few crystal things on the floor every day though.
https://www.chewy.com/trixie-activity-fun-board-5-in-1/dp/134672
My meezer LOVES this one from chewy! I've also ripped up and crinkled paper bags then threw them in a box and will sprinkle treats in there too. Or will hide them in the folds of the paper bags she likes to tear up. She used to look sad anytime I was leaving for work but now she knows when I'm leaving I Hide treats so it keeps her busy and happy
This is the one I use.. though I got it cheaper from a different site a few years ago:
https://www.amazon.com/GUTINNEEN-Outdoor-Enclosure-Wheels-Resting/dp/B08HH5PBG4
Get yourself a deshedding brush. Trust me. They look like a medieval torture device but you'll pull an entire cat's worth or fur outta that triple coat and everyone will be happier for it. Our Siberian has issues grooming when her furs get too thick but after we brush her it's no problem.
I wasn't able to find the exact one i bought but it looks pretty similar to this one
https://www.chewy.com/pet-republique-dematting-rake/dp/155580
I bought this one and it has little suction cups on the backside of it. I put it on the bottom of the bowl at first but my kitten liked the fountain a little too much (wouldn’t stop playing with it) so now it’s stuck to the side of the bowl and just makes a nice whirlpool. I wouldn’t say it cleans the water but I do find bits of cat food in the pump when I rinse the bowl every few days.
You are not alone! One of my boys loves chewing on cords and cables of all kinds, so we have bought chew-proof (🤞🏼) cord protectors for all our cords and cables. He hasn’t been able to get through them yet.
Here’s what we use (in both 1/2” and 1/4” sizes): https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08887TZH7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y15QGX7ZKG507DRQ130R?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I hope this helps. Hang in there!!
Honestly, it’s sort of a gamechanger if your sib is a humongous monster like mine is. I can’t hoist her up in a standard carrier to go to the vet - this particular stroller is amazing, really surprisingly great quality. (Though I recall it being cheaper than current prices - maybe keep an eye on it?)
Pet Gear 3-in-1 Travel System, View 360 Stroller Converts to Carrier and Booster Seat with Easy Click N Go Technology, for Small Dogs & Cats, 4 Colors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08C2H55N6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DHRRKJRQ6HNWZP1EFECY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We’ve only ever used this one litter so can’t compare but have never had an issue:
Dr. Elsey's Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009X29WK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1D1E7TKGW46Q953QBV36
Haha, your dream is not unrealistic!
As a plant deterrent, you can also mix a few drops of lemon essential oils with water and spray it on your plants. It worked a little bit for me, but I also found I had to refresh it pretty frequently - every one or two days. Here’s a page about it: https://pets.thenest.com/natural-cat-repellent-tips-4551.html
Definitely get chew-proof cord protectors! Kittens love chewing cords and it can lead to tragic shock accidents. We use this stuff and it’s great, though not the most attractive (also comes in narrower size): CrocSee 25ft - 1/2 inch Braided... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08887TZH7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
see how it works out first! i got rid of all but a few plants (i also couldn’t give up my monstera) in anticipation of getting my sweet boy. come to find out, he has no interest in eating or playing with them.
if it is an issue: 1. back at home, we used to use lemon/orange essential oils to keep our cats off of our bath mats (they liked to pee on them?). i’m not sure if either of these oils would harm the leaves, but it might be worth it to add a couple drops to the soil/maybe your neem oil? 2. i’ve heard these work wonders with keeping cats away from areas/objects.. might be worth it if your monstera is just as attractive to your sib as it is to you… https://www.chewy.com/petsafe-ssscat-motion-activated-dog/dp/167584?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12619854389&utm_content=PetSafe&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAjwrfCRBhAXEiwAnkmKmQEwXY7adKsGiOfi9lf-fr2blmtH-FQBA...
We use this one below! She’s only 10 pounds, but there’s room for her to grow. It’s really convenient as we can take it down and put it up anywhere when we travel.
https://www.chewy.com/kh-pet-products-ez-mount-cat-window/dp/128080
How old is your kitty? Mine is 5 months and I bought a simple harness from the local pet shops chain https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/polka-dot-kitten-harness
It's light weight so she was fine with it day one as a 12 week old. I will move to one I can wrap around her as she gets older. Maybe this one?
Dotoner Cat Harness and Leash Set Ultra-Light Kitten Collar Soft and Comfortable Cat Walking Jacket Running Cushioning escape proof Suitable for Puppies Rabbits with Cationic Fabric(M, pink) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B081PLD9VN/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_ZNYSSMF2VNSK9MHTVX56?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
She loves her walks although not necessarily outside lol
The *exact* product isn't on the site any more, but it's almost identical to this one, just mine doesn't have "charge" printed on it.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Clippers-Cordless-Professional-Grooming-Rechargeable/dp/B09SHHQ76D
I imagine it's sold worldwide under different random names/brands, just keep looking under the various search terms!
This is correct. I have purchased these and they help so much! https://www.chewy.com/dr-catsbys-whisker-relief-non-skid/dp/165467?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12650406687&utm_content=Dr.%20Catsby%27s&utm_term=
She's obsessed with it, hasn't made it to top level yet so she's made the third story her current suite. She brings her crinkly fish toy up there and plays with the batty ball, scratch post and the fish all at once. What does she even need me for?? lol
I use combs like these sets: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07V5M8LBT/
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08GG23XZG/
When I first got my kitties, I would start by petting them, then slowly transition to one stroke of the comb, followed by a pet. I also leave the combs around the house, so I can easily reach one if an opportunity arises (plus the cats are used to seeing them now). Sometimes if they’re in a playful mood, they try to bite the comb, which is where the second type comes in handy. The long metal ones make a good distraction in one hand, so the little plastic one in the other hand can actually comb them.
As for claw clipping…one cat squirms, but I can get them if I’m fast enough; the other cat…not so much. I’ve yet to get more than one claw at a time, and probably only 4 or 5 total over the course of 6 months. You could try having a human helper stand in front of you with a treat or a toy to wave as a distraction? I’ve heard some people have luck with electric nail files, but I think the noise would scare my cats.
I would suggest starting with a DE shedder comb like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Maxpower-Planet-Pet-Grooming-Brush/dp/B07P2N8HQH
That said- I would suggest talking to your vet for suggestions... My girl doesn't shed very much..
My vet recommended something like this which works well: Detangling Pet Comb with Long & Short Stainless Steel Teeth for Removing Matted Fur, Knots & Tangles – Detangler Tool Accessories for Safe & Gentle DIY Dog & Cat Grooming (Grooming Comb) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077T1LQCV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_MFRHBX121KPGF4PV97PH
Amazon! Wanted one that would be big enough for him as he's a biiig boy. Holds well and stops the licking.
This is it! http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08Y8H2JWM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_D0A0SW9QZYWPYR9H99XC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)
My 8 month old girl hates her claws being clipped, but tolerates an electric nail file for animals, I wrap her in a blanket, have 1 paw at a time, it's quiet and a lot quicker then she can continue on with her day ☺️
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07QXR58H4?ref=ppx_pop This is the one I use
Trimmer is off for this vudeo! So I got this fur trimmer for my boys bc they kept getting poop stuck to their butt. I let them sniff it (while off) then started putting it next to them (while off) then just turned it on, then turned it on near them, then started trimming their behinds. It seriously has worked soooo well and they never get anything stuck to them anymore! This isn't an ad btw lol. link - $16.99 USD
we got a pet razer and when it gets bad we shave the mats off. you really need to comb every 2-3 days and under the belly. we give our cat ‘thrive’ cat treats which are dried meat while we comb him and he lets us comb him if he is eating. Buy a wide toothed comb and a v Rake comb. the v rake is great for the long hair. Also a brush with metal prongs - double sided slicker brush like this- GROOM PROFESSIONAL Double Sided Flexible Slicker Grooming Brush - Firm https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01F6RDS8W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_0YXM33H4XGH73YYDJ21Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 you need to be consistent but you can get a handle on it. we once had to shave our cat so much he was practically bald in the middle, but we were more traumatised by it than him. his fur grew back and now we regularly brush or look for matts. Also just to say don’t just yank a brush through, tangles hurt, go gently.
Oh wow - I’m no expert, but that definitely looks like a Siberian to me. Short front legs and dat mane are a dead giveaway.
Grooming - took some calibrating, but we have found some success: Try a boar + nylon bristle people-brush (link below). We use two, one in each hand. So she can attack [brush A] and you feverishly brush with [brush B] while she’s distracted. Then she’ll attack [brush B], so [brush A] starts brushing, and so on. She likes playing more than she hates brushing!
(I recall spending less on this brush than it’s current list price of $27)
MISEL Professional Salon Approved Boar Bristle Hair Brush for Women and Men | Detangles Thin or Thick Natural Hair and Hair Extensions | Reduces Breakage | Great for Wavy and Straight Hair | Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G9F25JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_JEQS8TZ3PVRB5KX3SGM7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Best of luck to you!
I highly recommend trying Li'l Pals puppy brush, even the pickiest cats love getting brushed with it. It's super soft and gentle, and regular brushing helps prevent the mats. https://www.chewy.com/lil-pals-coated-tips-dog-slicker/dp/155279 For existing mats, try and cut them out with scissors, or take her to a groomer if you can't get to them
Thank you so much! He loves being groomed. He's such a good boy.
The trimmer is on Amazon. Can you try this link? Dog Cat Home Hair Waterproof Clipper Portable Electric USB Rechargeable Pet Grooming Tools Low Noise Shaver Cordless Trimmer for Small and Large Pets https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B092QN563N/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_03CHR0NH1NB9WA8ZK7CA
It’s the same concept as this one. It’s a dog seatbelt attachment that came with a rescue dog we had the joy of hosting for her final year.
I use this same one- and it's great (at least for 3 mins before my girl HATES it)
I also have this:
https://www.amazon.com/Detangling-Pet-Stainless-Removing-Tangles/dp/B077T1LQCV
I use this comb to cut out any really bad mat hair balls. I put this comb between her body and the ball- then cut the ball out with - actually a pair of kitchen shears. This way the comb protects her skin/body from any accidents (kinda like a barber combs your hair- pulls it up and then cuts against the comb).
I also use this comb for quick little combs- she hates it less than the deshedding tool (she HATES being brushed with anything- 3 years and still HATES it).
I use this particular brand but anything similar would work:
Pet Dematting Comb - 2 Sided Undercoat Rake for Cats & Dogs - Safe Grooming Tool for Easy Mats & Tangles Removing - Medium and Long Haired Cats Dogs Brush for Shedding https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NPN6VWD/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_K0ATW0H1Z9A33HGDFN7P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
However, look for any brush that is designed for dematting and descending. I went through 10 different types but the ones that look like tiny rakes work MUCH better at brushing Siberian coats because they do have triple layer fur coat (most cats only have two).
I had a Scottish fold before my Sib, and that little turd shed like he was the CEO of shedding. I can totally snuggle my Sib and not need to lint roll my clothes afterwards. She “sheds in clumps” too, so it’s pretty manageable. I notice the tumbleweeds after a week or two of not vacuuming.
Two recommendations: I’d get a stick vac that’s super easy to grab and use, just to keep things quickly tidy. And my sib enjoys some brushing, but I got a soft Boar bristle people-brush and that feels good to her.
MISEL Professional Salon Approved Boar Bristle Hair Brush for Women and Men | Detangles Thin or Thick Natural Hair and Hair Extensions | Reduces Breakage | Great for Wavy and Straight Hair | Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G9F25JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_NNXP382PHJY8ZMF7YP2G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Have you tried a dematting tool? I have something similar to this that has worked really well even with the worst of mats.
You want this brush. It’s very gentle and gets at the deep mats without having to use scissors. Best purchase I ever made for my sib!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZBMVW5/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_JZAYM1K8M7NBGFY106AA
Here ya go! We tried to find one that would still be big enough for him when he's full grown. It was a pain to install on the brick, but that's no fault of the hammock haha
He played really well with it for the first couple weeks but I think he got too excited, hopefully no one else has experienced it. I've seen other toys that are similar just without the holes which I might get for him!
Yes she's in Australia, in the eastern states. I have been shocked at the way she has handled the situation. She has been incredibly defensive and constantly contradicts herself in an attempt to back track and explain it all away? So disappointing. Deeply concerned for her other kittens and their new owners because I'm sure I'm not the only one who has been in this situation based on her reaction.
they’re all pretty much the same thing! since he’s going to be a big boy, i opted for this one that supports up to 50lbs.
I hope that links to toy balls on Amazon. These are balls that she can easily carry in her mouth after she fetches them. She had to be about 6 months old before she could use these. We didn’t even teach her to fetch. Some Siberians just do it. We also use Nerf dart guns- obviously shot way above their head. The suction end sticks up high on the glass storm door so she leaps up and grabs it with both paws and trots it right back to you and drops it.
I got this pack of balls with a bell in them and my cat literally becomes a soccer player when i throw it around the house (he dribbles it on the hardwood and goes up and down the stairs with it, absolutely drains his energy)! 3/4 have broken but theres one thats been going strong since April and its a godsent when my sib is bored
Here is the link
Mine takes to a bed immediately or if I leave it out for like 2 years, then it's sometimes acceptable. This wool bed she took to immediately. She doesn't use it often, but it's in the rotation.
The one we have is similar to this but we are going to have a larger one built that he can access through a window. Something like this.
My cat LOVES being outside in it - when it's nice he spends a few hours a day out there. It's on my back porch which is next to a tree. I've hung a bird feeder on a branch and the birds have learned he's harmless and will fly to the tree and he just stares and stares. Lol
According to my phone it's -3* F where I am right now (10pm). No wind and there is snow on the ground.
My Siberian (M, 1yr, healthy) has a small catio on my back porch that has towels and a covered bed.
He cries to go out every night but tonight I'm checking on him every 10 minutes. He lasted about 30m before he was ready to come in.
Fwiw, we got our Siberian from Tiberius (before she moved away from Maryland). We've been feeding her Smallbatch raw beef and she's done well on it.
https://smallbatchpets.com/cat-beefbatch
The key is defrosting about eight of them at a time in the fridge. Ziploc makes some nice containers with screw on caps that are perfect for this. https://www.amazon.com/Ziploc-Twist-Loc-Container-Small/dp/B00U5MQJ1M
We've been giving one 'slider' at morning/night intervals, with about 1/4 cup of dry kibble underneath. We've used Origen for the dry.
She's fine with it being cold from the fridge but turns her nose up at any that's been 'defrosted' in the microwave. So when we're down to the last two in the container we fill another container and put it in the fridge to thaw for the next meal.
First of all, she is adorable and gorgeous! It's going to be so cool watching her coat colors change over time.
I feel like everyone has answered you well. I only wanted to add a suggestion for this style litter mat. I have the bigger version and it traps most of the litter and is easy to clean. I use a non-clay litter that is really lightweight and gets everywhere, so I feel like if you're using clay, this should trap more of it than mine.
It may be this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DJ1RY25?ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details&th=1
If it is, then I can recommend it. One of my two Siberians likes hanging out in it watching the world
I would switch to a metal comb like this:
My girl gets this every 3-4 days. Never mats. It goes to the base of her fur and helps pull out the loose hairs before they clump. Sometimes I may also comb the hair in the opp direction for an area with more loose hair to get it all out. I find brushes don’t come close to what this simple comb gets out.
I also don’t know if you do this but if you feed just even one can of wet food per day that helps a lot with coat maintenance!
this one its softer than most and still gets in there!
I had a glove similar to the below that allowed me to rough play with my boy when he was younger. It's awesome doing death rolls and not getting scratched to hell. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SQB7LXP/ref=cm\_sw\_em\_r\_mt\_dp\_ZJRFK6GHP5BNG0VZFJC3
I got him used to it from early on and he is quite happy to walk around with it. I have an extension lead as well. I got it from Amazon Trixie Cat Harness Large, Random color https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000WFI87A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AYRBJ17B774G3PEQKF2C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
He does have a round muzzle but take a look. I think the dead give away is usually the profile and from the top (that trapezoid). Also it not like every Siberian must be perfect, but this guide helps.
It is unlikely that Siberians end up in shelters, nobody just gets rid of their +1000$ cat, and they are rarely breed from home.
No matter what though, he is super handsome and looks like a darling! That mane is so fluffy!!
I personally bought this one https://www.chewy.com/vetoquinol-enzadent-enzymatic-poultry/dp/109669
This one isn't the literal 100% best toothpaste, but it's considered decent and it has one of the best tastes. My cats love the taste, and that makes brushing their teeth much easier.
My routine with the cats every night is brush their teeth, when I'm done they get a very high value treat, and they're on their way. They fuss while I brush their teeth, but they don't run from me and are very excited for their treat. When you're training them to tolerate tooth brushing, I suggest the same process. Plop them in your lap, do the 1 minute or so training, then super high value treat.
Hopefully your kitties are treat motivated!
It sounds like you’re doing a good amount of logistical thinking about the house ahead of time!
Speaking of vertical space, this is a good product for window and vertical space making… https://www.chewy.com/kh-pet-products-ez-mount-cat-window/dp/128080
To keep kitties off our dining room table, they can get trained not to do it. We’ve used a sssscat hissing can and hissing ourselves, with removal of kitty from table. You have to be consistent, but it works.
I’m not familiar about squishmallows, but unless they are pretty small, then you’re cat might not be very into them. I’m thinking you’ll be able to tell pretty quickly if they need to be kept out of your cat’s reach or not. From my experience, they prefer to cuddle up to bigger stuffed animals and even more prefer to play with their toys that are often filled with cat nip or small and easy to bat around. Even if they bunny kicked and wrestled a squishmallow a couple times they probably won’t ruin it. Just provide them plenty of their own toys and scratchers and they will likely leave your things alone.
You’re gonna be a great Siberian parent when the time is right for you!
oh! I am sorry, I thought you just asked what litter.
I just use a pretty generic litter box with a rim and a few litter mats. Both of my cats like to kick litter every where so the rim helps keep that under control and the litter mats keep anything that escape from the kicking or stuck to their paws under control.
Just two of these to cover the entire closet floor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTQNK6H/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_SN24VYS73VYNSTZM9296?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I've been using this--
Seems good? It's not super fine powder so it doesn't get caught up in their paws and fur and also not large chunks so they don't play with it.
This is what I have- its only ok. I don't use the guards when I'm using the comb to remove mats. I found with the guards its not good at mats but good for some other trimming.
There are inflatable tube one's that I found give my boy the least amount of anxiety. It also allows him to find decent sleep positions as opposed to the traditional cone of shame. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YJTJXHP/ref=cm\_sw\_em\_r\_mt\_dp\_RDHV7R6WSWPAFWQT1XCF?\_encoding=UTF8&psc=1