Breeding for Health & Low Allergen
Multiple factors should be considered when selecting a Siberians for a breeding program. Each cattery will have different goals, but should still go through the same decision process. Start by using the following list and choosing which factors are the most or least important for your breeding program.
* Show Quality
* Conformation to Standard
* Color or Pattern
* Temperment
* Genetic Health Risks
* Cattery Health Risks
* Low Allergen Levels
It is not possible to eliminate genetic diseases, but they can be minimized by responsible breeders. Begin by learning the diseases that have occured in Siberians, and how they are transmitted. Veterinary examinations of sires and dams should always screen for these concerns. SRI has compiled health records on hundreds of Siberians, and studied the lines involved. In studing of the lines, several diseases have shown strong genetic patterns. The most common genetic concerns that have shown in Siberians are:
* Hypertropic cardiomyopathy
* Persian kidney disease
* Urinary crystals
* Gum disease
One of the more common reasons for purchase of Siberians is their reputation for being lower in feline allergens. Extensive studies compiled by Siberian Research show that less than 50% of the breed have lower levels of the Fel d1 allergen. Less than 20% of Siberians tested have allergen levels that are low enough for placement in homes with severe cat allergies. SRI has been able to identify a hereditary basis for low Fel d1 levels, and has begun developing recommendations for breeders.