Neva Masquerades get on well with other cats, dogs and children. Despite their size, they are quite agile and like to jump high.
These cats need the attention of their owners but don’t like to be cuddled and stroked by unknown people.
APPEARANCE
Size: Medium
Weight: 4 – 5+ kg
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Colour: Black
Eye Colour: Copper, Gold
Grooming: Low
Longevity: 11 – 15 years
Attention Needs: Moderate
RECOGNITION: ACF, ANCATS, CCCA
History of the Breed
The Neva Masquerade, an exquisite cat breed celebrated for its distinctive appearance and delightful temperament, boasts a unique colour pattern that adds to its overall allure. Recognized for its naturally long hair, robust physique, and bushy tail, this feline exudes a regal and majestic charm. Renowned for its affectionate demeanour and intelligence, the Neva Masquerade stands out as an excellent choice for cat enthusiasts.
This breed traces its roots to a fascinating cross between Siberian and Siamese cats, resulting in its striking long-haired beauty. The Neva Masquerade’s fur, characterized by distinct colour points, not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also serves practical purposes, providing warmth and protection. Named after the Neva River in St. Petersburg, where it originated, the Neva Masquerade is a colour point variant of the Siberian cat, recognized as a distinct breed or sub-breed among long-haired domestic cats.
Recent years have witnessed a surge in the popularity and recognition of the Neva Masquerade, thanks to its captivating appearance and affectionate nature. This lively, intelligent breed is well-suited for families with children or other pets. Overall, the Neva Masquerade remains a beloved cat breed, sure to captivate the hearts of cat lovers globally.
Appearance
The Neva Masquerade stands out as a unique and beautiful cat breed, distinguished by its striking physical features. Notably, its fur colour and pattern contribute to its visual appeal, with the breed displaying a colour-point pattern—lighter body shades contrasted by darker points on the face, ears, paws, and tail. Available in various colours, including white, blue, and red, some Neva Masquerade cats showcase additional white markings on their chest and belly, further enhancing their stunning appearance.
Another notable feature is the breed’s eye colour and shape, characterized by large, almond-shaped eyes set at a slight angle. While the preferred eye colour is clear green, variations like blue and amber are accepted, with some individuals inheriting sky-blue eyes from their Siamese lineage. Coupled with their distinctive fur pattern, these eye-catching traits make the Neva Masquerade truly stand out.
Apart from their visually appealing attributes, Neva Masquerade cats exhibit a robust and muscular body structure. Medium to large, with males weighing between 5.5-8 kg and females between 3.5-5.5 kg, these agile felines are known for their love of jumping and playing. Their affectionate and playful nature further makes them ideal pets for families with children or other animals, solidifying their status as a beautiful and unique breed.
Personality
Beyond their physical prowess, Neva Masquerade cats possess distinctive personality traits, making them resilient in harsh climates. Described as having dog-like characteristics, these cats form strong attachments to their owners and enjoy following them around the home. Despite their quiet nature, Neva Masquerades exude vitality, displaying a strong and distinct personality.
Intelligence and trainability are standout features of the Neva Masquerade. Their curiosity and love for exploration make them highly interactive with their owners, and their trainability makes them an excellent choice for families with children or other pets. Additionally, these cats are naturally sociable, displaying friendliness and a desire to be around people, reminiscent of the loving and intelligent Bengal cat.
Living With Neva Masquerade
Neva Masquerade cats emerge as an excellent choice for families, especially those with children, owing to their playful and sociable nature. Their compatibility with kids is highlighted by their friendly and gentle demeanour, reducing the likelihood of scratching or biting. However, prospective owners should acknowledge the responsibility of providing proper care and attention, akin to caring for a young child.
Known for their ability to coexist with other pets, Neva Masquerade cats bring intelligence, curiosity, sweetness, cheerfulness, and affection to households with multiple animals. Proper introduction procedures are crucial to ensure a smooth transition and prevent potential conflicts. These adaptable felines thrive in various living conditions, demonstrating liveliness and intelligence during playtime. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their beautiful coat, and attention to potential health conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease, is essential for their overall well-being. Families prepared to offer care and attention will find in the Neva Masquerade a charming and distinctive feline companion.
