The neva masquerade, like the Siberian from which it derives, probably originated in the south of the Caucasus and would have made its way to Siberia with settlers from that region. It could also be the result of crosses between cats from Western Europe and cats from Siberia. In any case, the breed was notable for its ability to hunt rodents on local farms.
Access to this content has been blocked to respect your choice of consent
I SUPPOSE
More information on the Cookie Management Policy page.
It’s a massive cat: males can weigh up to 9 kg, females are much smaller. He is very muscular, with a powerful and sturdy appearance. Its ribs and croup are rounded; Your hips and shoulders are the same width. Its legs are of medium length and its neck is round, short and well muscled. Its medium to long coat is shiny and perfectly protects the cat from cold and damp. He is always colorpoint (ie his coat is light with dark ends), in all colors.
The head is short and broad, in the shape of an inverted trapezium with rounded contours. The nose is rather short, the snout round and the whiskers long and well haired. Its eyes, large and almost round, are set wide apart and are always blue.
The Neva masquerade probably came from the South Caucasus. – Julia Shepeleva/Shutterstock
Good to know
Like the Siberian, the New Masquerade is considered one of the most hypoallergenic breeds known to date: it naturally produces little allergenic protein Fel d 1, which is responsible for allergies in 85% of cat allergy sufferers. It is also a very solid breed and has above average longevity. It grows slowly and reaches its final size around 3 years of age.
He is also a very affectionate tomcat and very attached to his master. He is sociable with his conspecifics, other animals and children. Intelligent and inquisitive, he would be fairly talkative and fairly calm any day, although he does need to make an effort and hone his hunting skills. It tolerates cold very well and feels very comfortable outdoors, for example in a house with a garden. It is important to brush him once a week to maintain his lush coat.
Find the magazine “Le Monde des Animaux” on newsstands and on monmag.fr (print and digital versions and subscriptions).
The World of Animals & Nature is a quarterly magazine. – Animal World #43
The World of Animals & Nature is a magazine dedicated to wildlife from around the world. Through captivating stories and sublime photography, the magazine offers a true visual safari in the heart of nature.