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The Neva Masquerade cat is an aristocrat of the cat world. These mannered, graceful animals were bred in Russia and acquired unique character traits. For all their aristocracy, they remain harsh hunters and dangerous predators, capable of standing up for themselves. At the same time, they combine such character traits with the tenderness and attentiveness that goes to the owners of the cat.

History of the origin of Neva masquerade cats

The Neva Masquerade cat appeared relatively recently - at the beginning of the twentieth century. This breed was gaining popularity in Europe, America and Russia. Cats of this breed began to be bred on a large scale in 1986, and were officially recognized only in 1988. However, not all associations still recognize this breed as official.

The history of the Neva masquerade cat is well known. It descended from Siberian cats, which were an indigenous breed found only in Siberia. These cats became the progenitors of many modern breeds of semi-longhaired and longhaired cats. Siberian cats lived in Russia for centuries, but became known only from the time of Peter I.

The origin of the Neva masquerade cat from a geographical point of view is difficult to establish. Their breeding was first started in the city of St. Petersburg, in the then popular club “Kotofey”. The breeder was Olga Mironova, famous at that time, who had a hand in many cats.

Interesting fact: The cats were named Neva cats in honor of the Neva River, where these animals originated. The masquerade cat was named due to its unusual color: a spot on its face that resembles a dark mask.

Subsequently, the cat was bred in Moscow. Moscow nurseries carried out selection separately from St. Petersburg ones, which contributed to some division of the breed, but at the same time added diversity to the genetic potential.

In addition to the Siberian cat, Siamese cats have also “invested” in the Neva Masquerade cat breed. In many ways, they influenced the color of the Neva Masquerade: dark muzzle, paws and tail. It is reliably known that Neva Masquerade cats are an exclusively Russian breed.

Features of the color point color

Neva Masquerade cats (Siberian color-point cats) are born almost white. But the Siamese color begins to appear already on the 5-7th day of life. The nose and ears darken, then it’s the turn of the paws and tail. A more complete picture of the adult color can be obtained when the animal reaches 6 months. But color-point owners continue to darken throughout their lives.

What is the reason for the distribution of dark areas of fur? This feature is responsible for a recessive gene that promotes hair pigmentation in the coldest areas of the body. These are the muzzle, ears, paws and tail. Since kittens are evenly “warmed” in the womb, they are born white. With birth, when the body adapts to independent thermoregulation, a change in color occurs: warmer areas of the body remain light, and colder areas “give” themselves dark “points”.

In order for a Neva Masquerade to be born, both parents must be carriers of the recessive color-point gene. For a long time, breeders of cats of the Siberian breed, which is known as the traditional one, argued about how acceptable it is according to standards to have animals of the “overseas” Siamese color. However, today Neva Masquerade cats are already officially registered - there are a number of nurseries specializing in breeding Siberian cats of only color-point color.

Where does this name come from? The first representatives of the breed were registered in the city on the Neva - St. Petersburg. The prefix “masquerade” is more than appropriate - it seems that the cat’s face is wearing a masquerade mask.

Today the following varieties of Siamese colors are acceptable for Neva masquerade dogs:

• Seal-point;
• Blue-point;
• Red-point;
• Cream-point;
• Tortie-point.

These colors are presented in varieties:

• Smooth, one-color spots (solid).
• Patterned, spotted, striped spots (tabby).
• Silver (silver).
• Color point with white (& white).

The main difference between “tabby” spots and “solid” spots: the dark marks are not solid in color, but are presented in stripes. The following tabby features are also important:

• On the forehead there is a pattern in the shape of the letter “M”.
• The mask on the muzzle near the eyes and around the whiskers is spotted.
• There are dark torn “bracelets” on the front legs.
• There are stripes on the thighs, but solid dark coloring on the back of the hind legs.
• The ears are a solid color, but there is a lighter thumbprint-shaped spot on the outside of the shell.
• The inside of the ear is lighter than the outside.
• On the tail the color comes in broken rings.
• The color of the nose and paw pads matches the points.

There are also prohibited color point variations for Neva Masquerade Dogs:

• choclit points (chocolate);
• lilac points (lilac);
• cinnamon points (cinnamon).

All Neva Masquerade varieties are characterized by a light body and bright blue eyes. Today, nurseries are working on new colors for the breed: smoky color point, bi-metallic color - a beautiful combination of silver and golden “spraying” on the coat.

Neva Masquerade cat - description of the breed

Neva masquerade cats have many differences from their closest relatives: Siberian and Siamese cats, although they inherited a lot from them. This is a fairly large breed. The weight of cats is approximately six kilograms, and the weight of cats is up to nine kilograms. They are proportionate and strong. The body is of medium length, not too stretched. The torso is massive, the neck is short and thick. Volume breasts and strong muscles.

The head is proportional, but massive, wedge-shaped and with smooth, rounded features. The forehead is round, low; wide nose of medium length, without humps. If you look at the cat in profile, there is a noticeable deepening in the transition from the forehead to the nose, but the transition is smooth. The cheekbones are set low, there is a fleshy cheek area, and the jaws are well developed. The chin is also smooth, but powerful and not protruded.

The ears of the Neva Masquerade cat are of medium size, very wide at the base and slightly tilted forward. The tips of the ears are softly rounded. The distance from ear to ear is small. The eyes are round and slightly slanted in setting. Eye color is necessarily blue, but can vary in shade. Up to a year, a green tint to the eyes is acceptable.

The legs of the Neva Masquerade cat are of medium length, very strong and muscular. Their paws are large - they inherited this from Siberian cats. The paws are round in shape, and soft hair grows in tufts between the toes. The tail of these cats is of medium length, well furred, widening towards the end and rounded at the tip. Owners note that this tail resembles a fox's.

Comparison of Neva cats with other breeds

Neva masquerade cats are very elegant pets, in several color options: simply with markings on the head, ears, limbs and tail - with points; with striped stains; with various white splashes. A sight for sore eyes, and that’s all!

Several recognized foreign breeds also have similar colors.

For example, the Burmese longhair cat, which can be described as a side branch in the breeding of color-point Persians. As in many similar cases, the emergence of the “Burmese” is marked by a number of beautiful legends that are known everywhere, but not in its historical homeland. The peculiarity of these cats (Hylit Burmese) are white markings on the limbs in the form of “gloves” and “boots with spurs”.

Without going into the intricacies of genetic research, it should be noted that the ideal color of the Burmese is very rare. It is especially difficult to achieve correct symmetrical "spurs" with an angle directed towards the middle of the hock joint, and clearly defined equal-sized "gloves". You always end up with something average: either scallops, or crooked “spurs,” or even generally colored spots on white. And the old Persian type of head is by no means original.

Another semi-longhaired color-point cat, the Balinese, or Bali, has a distinctly refined, original type.

The most similar in type and color to Siberian color-point cats is the American ragdoll cat ("rag" pussy) - large, soft, obediently hanging in the hands like a fluffy muff. But compare her behavior with the manners of Russian daredevils, who are often not averse to showing even an expert who, in fact, is the master of the situation! In addition, Ragdolls have a head type and coat that is still closer to Maine Coons - North American relatives of the “Siberians” and “Norwegians”, who, however, have a slightly different outline of the head and a silkier coat that increases towards the back of the body. Well, the Maine Coon’s tail is as long and fluffy as a fox’s (Read more about Maine Coon cats).

So, perhaps, our pussies of the Siberian type and color-point color are quite original, since no known breed is completely copied. Remembering that color-point cats of various breeds are also called masquerade (for their characteristic mask), and that the city of Peter the Great on the Neva River has always been famous for balls and masquerades, we are in a romantic impulse (typical of ardent cat lovers of all ages) continents) called the new breed “Neva Masquerade”. The Neva Masquerade cat differs from the Siberian cat only in its color. Color-point (to put it simply, Siamese) very elegant color and bright blue eyes have become true decorations of the Siberian breed.

Photos of pets of the Neva Masquerade breed

Popular colors of Neva Masquerade cats

The coat of Neva Masquerade cats is medium length and fluffy. They got it from a Siberian cat: it shines brightly and has the ability to repel water. Thanks to this, Neva masquerade cats hardly freeze, but they also do not like to swim. The coat lengthens, moving from the shoulder blades to the pelvic part, and smoothly falls to the sides and to the base of the tail. The fur around the neck forms a thick mane. Soft trousers are clearly visible on the hind legs.

This type of fur is called decorative fur: it is intended for aesthetic purposes, and not for keeping the cat warm. During the molting period, the panties from the hind legs and the shirtfront from the chest almost disappear. The cat's undercoat is long and thick, especially growing in winter, becoming denser. In summer, the cat sheds, and the undercoat becomes thin and light.

The guard hair and undercoat of the Neva Masquerade cat are light in color, and the tips of the ears, paws, tail and fur on the face are dark.

Depending on the darkness of the color, all colors of Neva masquerade cats can be divided into the following:

1. Seal point and seal tabby point with classic chocolate and dark chocolate spots;
2. Blue point with gray spots;
3. Red point with red spots;
4. Tortoiseshell point, which is found only in cats and not in cats.

Relatively recently, breeders have developed several colors that have silvery shades. Only the chocolate-lilac color scheme is excluded from the breed, and all other shades of masks are acceptable. The only condition: the contrast between the light coat and dark tones must be clearly visible so that the border is drawn.

What does the Neva Masquerade look like?

Due to the fact that the Neva Masquerade cat is a type of Siberian cat, after meeting it you get an interesting overall impression.
A representative and self-confident animal commands respect. The maximum weight of an adult male is 10 kg, which is second only to Maine Coons. Girls usually weigh between 5-6 kg. No less remarkable is the height at the withers. The size of the pet can reach 25-40 cm. Despite their size, Nevaks are quite agile and amaze with their grace.

Muzzle

The breed is characterized by a trapezoidal head, rounded at the wide forehead. The wide nose has an average length. It smoothly transitions to the forehead, so there is no stop. In the photo of the Neva Masquerade, charming full cheeks are visible, hiding low-set cheekbones. A face that is too narrow is considered a disadvantage.

The ears are wide at the base and slightly tilted forward. Their tips have a smooth curve and fluffy tassels. Too large or small ears, as well as an abundance of fluff, are unacceptable.

The calling card of the breed is not only the mask, but also the blue eyes. Their color varies from light blue to dark blue. Interestingly, at birth the eyes of Nevaks have a green tint, which remains for up to a year.

Body type

The head is located on a strong and short neck. The proportional body with a powerful skeleton and well-developed muscles has a rectangular shape. The hind and forelimbs are well developed and end in large rounded paws with tufts of hair between the toes.

The medium-length tail is well-furred and rounded at the tip. Too small paws, a fragile neck, weak bones or scanty coat are among the shortcomings of the breed.

Coat and color

The shiny coat of the Nevaks has a thick double undercoat and long awns. It protects the animal from moisture, dirt and low temperatures. There must be a luxurious mane on the neck, and “pants” on the hind legs. During seasonal molting, the undercoat falls out abundantly, and in the cold season it becomes longer and thicker.

The color of the Neva Masquerade is acromelanic, that is, most of the body is light in color, and the paws, tail, muzzle and tips of the ears are dark. Dark points appear on the coldest areas of the body and are divided into the following types:

• blue (gray markings on a bluish-white body);
• tortoiseshell (not found in boys);
• red (red points on a white body);
• Siamese (white or cream with black markings);
• seal tabby (combination of points and stripes).

Shades of silver, including smoky colors, are also acceptable. Chocolate and purple colors remain prohibited.

All points must have the same intense color. Due to low temperatures, the light areas darken, merging with the points, so it is recommended to keep your pet warm.

Character and habits of Neva masquerade cats

Neva masquerade cats have graceful habits. They have a pronounced sense of self-esteem, which does not allow them to behave with these cats like children. With all their appearance and behavior they demonstrate nobility.

Only close people, owners and their children can freely play with this cat. With others, the animal behaves distantly and imposingly, does not show increased interest in new people, and also does not always allow itself to be stroked and, especially, to be picked up.

Neva Masquerade cats are sedate and proud animals with a balanced character. They are attached to family and to home comfort and silence. They like it when they are given attention, but do not ask for it intrusively. They sense the territory well and will not allow new animals into it: there is a high probability that they will respond aggressively to other cats and dogs.

Interesting fact: Owners of Neva Masquerade cats note that the animals love to listen carefully to their owners, are ready to provide emotional support and happily sit on the laps of their loved ones, purring quietly.

Despite their external appearance, Neva masquerade cats are very playful and love to move. Therefore, they get along well with children who are ready to constantly play with their pet. These cats are also characterized by curiosity about everything that concerns their owners: they are nearby when people are doing household chores.

Neva masquerade cats can hardly be called sissies or timid animals. From their ancestors - Siamese and Siberian cats, they received a harsh character and high adaptability to new conditions. You don’t have to worry about these cats if you let them go for walks near a private house. They can fend for themselves and have sufficient intelligence, although supervision of walks is still necessary. Neva masquerade cats themselves do not show aggression unless provoked.

Being good hunters, they can bring mice, birds and even moles into the house. You definitely shouldn't leave them near pet hamsters or parrots.

Standards of the Neva Masquerade breed in various systems

The Neva Masquerade cat in different felinological systems is considered as a color variation of Siberian cats (WCF, TICA), and is also considered an independent breed with its own standard, different from the standard of Siberian cats of traditional color (FIFe, ICU, MFA)

• WCF standard
• FIFe standard
• TICA standard

WCF system standard

BREED
Siberian

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS

Strong, massive, muscular cats of medium to large size. Cats are much smaller than cats.

HEAD

In the shape of a short wide trapezoid in good proportion to the body, massive. The forehead is wide, slightly rounded. A smooth transition from a low forehead to a wide, straight bridge of the nose. The nose is of medium length, wide, a small depression is visible in profile, but without a stop. The cheekbones are low, the cheeks are full, the jaws are well developed. The chin is wide, fairly strong, but not protruding.

NECK

The neck is short but very strong.

EARS

Medium size, wide at the base, spaced at a distance greater than the width of one ear at the base. The outer line of the ear is vertical, the outer edge of the base of the ear is located slightly above eye level. The ears are slightly tilted forward. The ends are rounded. Brushes and brushes are desirable.

EYES

Large, round, set wide and slightly oblique. Eye color is blue, rich, evenly colored. The distance between the eyes is quite large.

BODY

The medium-length body is dense and massive, with strong bones and well-developed muscles. The limbs are of medium height, strong, forming a rectangle with the body. Powerful neck, wide chest; the body is proportional to create a rectangular outline. The paws are large, round, with tufts of hair between the toes.

TAIL

Wide and strong at the base, length almost to the shoulder blades, well pubescent. The tip is rounded.

WOOL

Semi-long; The outer hair is hard, shiny, water-repellent, lengthening from the shoulder blades to the croup, descending to the sides and upper part of the tail. On the sides the coat is softer, loosely fitting, and very dense. The undercoat is double, depending on the season: a slight short, close-fitting one in warm weather, in winter it is a profuse long one, very thick and dense, with an excellent texture. The decorative coat is long but dense, in the form of a mane, full collar and frill. Lush “pants” and a perfectly bushy tail. Short hair on the shoulder blades. During seasonal molting, almost nothing remains of the decorating fur.

TYPE

Strong, massive.

COLORS

Neva Masquerade cats have the following color variations: Seal-point, Blue-point, Red-point, Tortie-point, as well as all these types of colors tabby and all colors with white (... with white or bicolour). Not long ago, a silver shade was introduced for these point variations (...silver). Today all colors are recognized, except for the chocolate-lilac color variants. All colors are allowed, with the exception of chocolate, lilac, cinnamon and fawn, as well as Abyssinian ticking. For Neva Masquerade cats, any harmonious combination with white is acceptable.

CONDITION

Healthy, strong, robust, well-groomed cat.

FLAWS

Small overall size; straight profile; compliance with the “Persian” type; long, light, narrow muzzle; flat cheeks; weak cheekbones; weak chin.

Small; round; deep-set eyes.

Large or narrow set ears, straight or high set, "Persian" type (small, low set, excessively pubescent).

Limbs are too long or too thin.

Short body, graceful type, weak bones, small paws. No tufts of hair between the toes. Slender long neck. The tail is short, poorly furred, with a sharp tip. The coat is without undercoat, hard, ragged, not shiny on the back and rump. Overgrown undercoat of the “Persian” type.

CROSSING WITH OTHER BREEDS

Not allowed.

SCORE SCALE:

Head - 20 Ears - 5 Eyes - 5 Type - 25 Limbs - 10 Tail - 10 Fur - 20 Condition - 5 TOTAL - 100

Note: This version of the standard was adopted at the WCF General Assembly in August 2002 in Italy. 08/03/2002 The WCF General Assembly decided at a meeting in Milan that out-of-breed crosses of such indigenous breeds as Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest, Turkish Angora, Turkish Van and Siberian cat are subject to special permission from the WCF expert commission.

Standard of the Neva Masquerade according to the FIFe system

Preliminary recognition of the Nevskaya Maskaradnaya (NEM) breed was made at the GA in Stary Smokovec (Slovakia) in 2008, effective from 01/01/2009.
BREED

Neva Masquerade

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS

Strong, massive, muscular animals with strong bones from medium to large size, pronounced sexual dimorphism. The weight of cats is at least 4.5 kg, the weight of cats is at least 3 kg. The coat is medium length, dense, with pronounced top coat...

HEAD

Relatively large, in the shape of a short wide trapezoid. The top of the head is flat. A smooth transition from a low forehead to a wide, straight bridge of the nose. The nose is of medium length, without stop or snub. The cheekbones, whisker pads and chin form a rounded smooth line. The chin is wide, fairly strong, rounded and not protruding.

NECK

The neck is strong and short.

EARS

Medium size, wide at the base, widely spaced. The distance between the ears is greater than the width of one ear at the base. The ears are slightly tilted forward and the tips are rounded. Brushes and brushes are desirable.

EYES

Medium size, in the shape of a wide oval, set wide and slightly oblique. Eye color is blue, well colored.

BODY

Strong, massive, muscular, with a wide chest, strong, medium-length limbs. The paws are large and round. Tufts of fur between the toes are desirable.

TAIL

Medium length, wide at the base, evenly tapering towards the tip, evenly pubescent.

WOOL

Middle length. The topcoat hair is quite hard, shiny, and water-repellent. On the sides the coat is softer, loosely fitting, and very dense. The undercoat is well developed, somewhat shorter than the outer coat, the degree of expression depends on the season. The decorative coat is long, dense, in the form of a mane, full collar and frill. Lush “pants” and a perfectly bushy tail. Agouti and tabby dogs have a more distinctive coat texture.

TYPE

Strong, massive, muscular.

COLORS

All types of colors are allowed, except chocolate, lilac, Burmes and Abyssinian. The examination of Neva masquerade cats is carried out separately from Siberian cats and in a different group, as well as by color.

CONDITION

Healthy, strong, well-groomed cat.

FLAWS

Short or overly elongated body, graceful type, weak bones, small paws. Slender long neck. Straight profile, convex skull, deep deflection of the transition line from the forehead to the bridge of the nose, long, light, narrow head or muzzle, narrow bridge of the nose. Flat cheeks, high cheekbones, pinch, weak chin. Large or narrow set ears, straight or high set, ears of the “Persian” type (small, low set, excessively pubescent). Small, almond-shaped, round, protruding or deep-set eyes. Short, poorly furred tail. The coat has no undercoat, is too coarse or “downy”.

DISQUALIFICATION

Inconsistency with the constitutional type, pronounced signs of the “Persian” type.

SCORE SCALE:

Head (including shape and set of ears) - 25 Eyes (color and shape) - 10 Type (body and limbs) - 30 Tail - 10 Coat (texture and color) - 20 Condition - 5 TOTAL - 100

Note: this standard for the Siberian cat was clarified and approved on July 16, 2005 at the IKEF Conference

Interesting facts about Neva masquerade cats

The temperature at which kittens develop in their mother's womb has a curious effect on them. Small kittens are born completely white, rarely with a beige tint. Only later do dark spots appear on them, which distinguish the Neva masquerade cat from other breeds.

The color of representatives of the Neva Masquerade cats is a consequence not only of crossing Siberian cats with the Siamese breed. Neva masquerade cats have a special gene with thermal sensitivity. This gene prevents the pigment from penetrating the hair structure at high temperatures. Therefore, only the coldest areas, those exposed to the lowest temperatures, have a dark color: the muzzle, paws, tail and tips of the ears.

By nature, Neva masquerade cats are born aristocrats. Thanks to their habits, these cats are well brought up and will never go against their owners. For example, they almost never tear up furniture and are easily litter trained. Innate cleanliness greatly facilitates their maintenance - these manners are inherent in Neva masquerade cats at the genetic level.

Neva masquerade cats have a keen sensitivity to emotions. They always determine what mood the owner is in. And if they understand that people close to them are feeling bad, they are ready to lighten the mood with affectionate purring or flirting. They even relieve irritability or fatigue with their purring.

Cats of this breed are strong and dangerous predators. They should not be angered, since a cat can cause serious damage even to a person. Of course, the animal will not touch children or loved ones, but it is wary of strangers. Therefore, there is no need to insist on contact with the Neva masquerade cat if she does not want it herself.

Breed standard Neva Carnival cat

Anatolian cat (breed)

Females of this breed are usually smaller in size than males. The weight of a cat can be up to 10 kilograms, the weight of a cat can be no more than 6. The body of a cat is proportionally folded. The neck and chest are strong.

The head has a size proportional to the body, a wide round forehead and a large nose. The muzzle has full cheeks and well-developed jaws.

The Neva Carnival cat has large ears that are rounded at the tip. High wool and tassels are acceptable.

The eyes are large and widely spaced. Always blue. The paws of cats are large, with well-developed muscles. Tufts of fur grow on the paws. The tail of cats is truly masquerade, rich in fluffy tails and interesting colors.

The Neva Blue cat has luxurious fur in its arsenal of seduction of future owners. The hair length is medium, the density of the undercoat depends on the season.

Disadvantages of the Neva Carnival cat breed

Disadvantages of the breed:

• Basically, the Siberian Neva cat has a strong bone structure, but there are exceptions when the cat is born small in size, with short legs;
• not a large muzzle, with no chubby cheeks;
• tiny ears.

Pros and cons of Neva Masquerade cats

The undoubted advantage of such a cat is its bright, attractive appearance and expressive eyes. She always attracts the attention of others and looks very impressive.

In addition to appearance, the Neva Masquerade cat has the following advantages:

• These are calm, sedate animals that will not cause chaos in the house;
• They are gentle and meek, very courteous with close people; patient, so they can endure playing with children for a long time, even if they don’t like it;
• They are not capricious at all, so they do not refuse food and can live in a wide variety of conditions. Therefore, there are no special requirements for maintenance - cats easily adapt even to life in a private home and to walking on the street;
• Neva masquerade cats have strong immunity and good health; cats of this breed are excellent hunters. By keeping them on private property, you can be sure that there will be no small rodents left on it;
• These cats have another interesting feature - they know how to choose a healthy mating partner who will provide the best offspring. An adult cat will never associate with a sick or aggressive cat.

The disadvantages of the Neva masquerade cat include:

• Large sizes, due to which these cats require space - at least seven meters for comfortable housing;
• Sometimes they are indifferent to their owners and require privacy. They don’t like strangers, and contacts with them can be viewed with hostility;
• They need to be combed out as often as possible;
• These cats should not be kept with other animals. They will eat smaller pets, and will treat larger ones with aggression and rejection;
• It is very difficult to find a cat with a proven and good pedigree for mating.

Breeding Neva Masquerade cats

The first heat of the Neva masquerade cat begins already in the ninth month of life. This is not at all a reason to breed a cat - her body is not ready for pregnancy and childbirth. On the contrary, early pregnancy is fraught with serious complications or even death. During heat, a cat becomes active, rolls around on the floor, screams a lot and demands attention. The cat is ready for mating only after the third heat, when the body has finally formed and the reproductive system is ready for pregnancy.

Neva masquerade cats mature later. You can determine that this happened by the cat’s behavior: it marks its territory, screams and tries to escape into the street. Sometimes a cat can become aggressive and start biting and scratching. The instinct of self-preservation almost disappears, so you need to be careful when handling such a cat.

Neva Masquerade cat for cats can be found from professional breeders. He must have all the documents and vaccinations that will make the mating safe and the offspring healthy. It is also possible to breed a cat with outbred cats, but it is undesirable to waste the genetic potential of the animal.

Pregnancy lasts approximately 65 days. The cat noticeably gains weight, and sometimes may vomit on an empty stomach. After half the pregnancy period, the cat's nipples swell and the belly grows very large. On day 49 you can already palpate the kittens.

In late pregnancy, the belly becomes pear-shaped and the cat moves as little as possible. She may also lose her appetite completely, but she will drink large quantities of water. Childbirth takes place under the supervision of a veterinarian, although Neva masquerade cats rarely experience difficulties with it.

Breed varieties

Cream and brown points

Seal point or seal tabby point kittens are very popular. They are considered one of the most beautiful, and this is an indisputable fact. So, the shade on their body is usually:

• beige;
• light;
• soft gray;
• light brown.

INTERESTING TO KNOW: The Siamese cat is not at all evil

Beige and light gray are especially common. Since a characteristic feature of the Neva Masquerade cat is color contrast, the rule remains unchanged for all representatives of this beautiful breed that the darker ones will be:

• ears,
• paws;
• tail;
• mask.

The contrast is especially clear on cats with a white body color and almost black limbs, ears and mask. Even on their body they have spots of a darker shade.

When talking about the color of a point's face, it is not without reason that the term “mask” is used. Photographs of these animals convince us that the unique color of the Neva masquerade cat creates the impression that the points actually have a mask on their face.

An invariable characteristic of the breed - contrast - is manifested even in kittens that have a dark coat color. Despite this, you can easily see that the ears, paws and muzzle are even darker in color. The richer the color of the cat, the darker its face will be.

Blue points

The next type of breed is the Blue Point cat. Blues differ from the previous species in that their spots on the body are lighter in color. It usually has a silvery-blue tint. This cat received a second name - blue.

Blue point and blue tabby point, as they are also called, must have a light-colored body so that the contrast is more noticeable. Blue Points look very beautiful due to their blue tint of fur and blue eyes. And the photos with them turn out simply excellent.

Red and reddish points

Another equally beautiful variety of points is red point and red tabby point. The color of Neva Masquerade cats of this species is considered rare. Compared to the blue, the red has a red coat color. When you admire their beauty, it seems that the body shimmers with light gold.

When kittens are certified, that is, kittens at the age of 2 months are determined to comply with the standard, difficulties arise in distinguishing red points from red tabby points.

In adult cats, a sign such as striping or its absence may become permanently established when the first kittens are born. In addition, a variety of cream point has appeared. These are kittens with a lighter shade of red.

Tortoiseshell color

The Neva Masquerade cat of tortoiseshell color is especially popular among breeders and cat lovers. It is called torty point or torby point. Such love for this variety is explained by the fact that from it it is possible to obtain offspring with a wide variety of tones, which is impossible in others.

Tortoiseshell coloring is achieved when there are cream or reddish shades in the base color. Sometimes these colors are produced with a tabby pattern. The coloring of these cats is truly unique. Each kitten that appears will be a unique tortoiseshell shade.

Siberian colorpoints

Another variety of the Siberian cat breed is the Siberian color-point bicolor. A distinctive feature of such cats is the presence of white spots on their paws and face. They do not have any high requirements regarding:

• their location;
• forms;
• symmetry.

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This is what makes cats different from each other. Each of them has an amazing magic of beauty: white “socks” on their paws and spots on their faces make the appearance of these cute animals especially attractive.

Silver color

Among the cats of the Neva Masquerade breed, this type of color is:

• seal silver point;
• red silver point;
• blue silver point.

True, cats with a reddish tint are much less common than others. These three varieties of the breed have a characteristic that distinguishes them from other colors - a light silver tint. It is created due to the fact that only the wool at the ends is dyed.

The special appeal of the silver color is that the presence of a white undercoat makes the silver color stand out, with the undercoat usually having finer hairs. Due to this combination of colors, it seems that the cat has some kind of glow from within. It looks very impressive.

Usually, both blue, red, and tabby acquire a more saturated color over time. But this does not in any way affect their beauty. They always attract the attention of exhibition visitors and judges.

Caring for Neva masquerade cats

The Neva Masquerade cat does not require specialized care. It usually needs to be brushed two to three times a week using a range of items. The owner of a fluffy cat should have a slicker brush in his arsenal, which effectively removes dead fur.

You also need to get a brush made of natural stiff bristles, a rubber glove and a comb with fine teeth. You will also need shampoo if your pet gets very dirty, which is rare.

If you do not properly care for the coat of the Neva Masquerade cat, then cleaning the house will be required several times a week. The thick fur of these cats often falls out, which creates severe discomfort when keeping it in an apartment. Also, the fur has a tendency to roll into tangles, which causes inconvenience to the cat itself.

It is not advisable to comb the tail of the Neva Masquerade cat. It is very sensitive, and even the slightest hair pulling can be an unpleasant process for the cat. The hair on the tail rarely falls out and is poorly restored, so when combing it is better to simply avoid it.

Important fact: To prevent your cat from tearing up the furniture in the house, it is better to purchase a scratching post. Typically, these well-mannered and intelligent animals easily get accustomed to such devices and do not touch the furniture.

You should regularly clean your cat's eyes with a cotton pad moistened with warm water, and also clean your cat's ears and teeth. Solid foods and special chewing toys work best for cleaning teeth. Neva masquerade cats love walks. If you live in a private house, then you can let your cat out on its own - a smart animal will not go far from its territory and will behave carefully. Special leashes are great for walking in the city. These cats can be walked even in winter because they are not afraid of the cold.

Grooming

The Neva Masquerade cat's coat is three-layered with abundant undercoat, so it requires careful combing. To properly care for your cat's fur, you will need:

• combined comb;
• massage brush;
• restorative spray and detangling spray;
• shampoo-conditioner;
• silicone massage sponge;
• vitamins for wool.

Photo gallery: Neva Masquerade coat care products

The combination comb is suitable for combing the chest, area behind the ears and back.

Spray Doctor VIC is used before the combing procedure Anju Beaute Jojoba Spray is used to restore the coat after combing

One side of the brush is intended for combing, the other is for moisturizing the fur. For washing, you need to use shampoo for long-haired cats.

Vitomax vitamins with biotin for wool contain amino acids, vitamins, minerals, including biotin, vitamin C and B vitamins

The Nevak's coat needs to be combed once a week, and during shedding - once every 2-3 days. You need to scratch a cat like this:

1. First you need to spray the coat with a spray to make combing easier.
2. After this, comb thoroughly with a combination comb.
3. Comb with a massage brush.
4. Spray with restoration spray.

The Neva Masquerade cat needs to be washed more often than many other breeds - once every 4-5 weeks:

1. Before bathing, the cat's fur should be thoroughly combed.
2. The water temperature must be at least 39 degrees.
3. The cat should be washed in a basin; the water should cover it up to half the body.
4. First, the cat needs to be thoroughly wet.
5. After this, apply shampoo and lather it with a massage sponge.
6. Rinse thoroughly.
7. Dry the cat with a silent hairdryer or towel. While the cat is drying (about a day), there should be no drafts in the apartment.

Video: how to wash a cat

Diet of Neva masquerade cats

To keep your cat healthy and its coat beautiful, you need to achieve a complete, balanced diet. Neva masquerade cats are prone to obesity, therefore, when choosing natural food, you need to pay a lot of attention to portioning and balance in food. It is best to feed your cat 120 grams twice a day for an adult pet.

Most of the Neva Masquerade cat's diet is meat. You need to choose lean meat rich in protein: chicken, turkey, beef. The easiest way is to place meat with cereals, such as oatmeal, rice, buckwheat. Legumes that cats do not eat in the wild should not be given.

An important element of the diet is vegetables. Cats especially love fresh cucumbers, which contain a lot of liquid and important vitamins. Greens are also an integral part of the diet. In the summer, it is better to let your cat eat grass on the run, and in the winter, pet stores offer pots of home-grown greens, which cats enjoy eating. Cats can also be given raw chicken yolk once every three to four days.

Interesting fact: In addition to meat, Neva masquerade cats love to eat offal. These include the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, hearts, tracheas, etc. They can be frozen well in the freezer and thawed to room temperature, or they can be boiled a little and cooled. Hot or cold food should not be given to your pet, so as not to damage the enamel of the teeth.

Fermented milk products are rich in calcium. Fatty components are excluded from the cat's diet, but low-fat cottage cheese, kefir and yogurt without any additives can and should be given. Once every three days it is worth treating Neva masquerade cats with these products. You can also give them a few drops of high-quality vegetable oil to remove hair from the body.

Diseases and health problems

Neva masquerade cats originated through natural crossing of cats of other breeds. Siberian and Siamese cats, their closest relatives, also enjoy good health. Neva masquerade cats have excellent immunity, and they also have no congenital diseases. This is one of the healthiest cat breeds in the world.

Interesting fact: These cats can be let out for walks even in winter. Neva masquerade cats love to jump in the snow, especially when their owner is nearby. At the same time, there is no need to worry that the animal will catch a cold - the Siberian blood in these cats gives them excellent adaptability to cold weather.

It is worth keeping an eye on the amount of fur that enters the cat’s body when it licks itself. The fur can seriously clog the digestive tract or colon, causing illness or even death. Therefore, it is worth regularly giving her vegetable oil and special pastes that help remove hair from the body.

In large cats, a disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy sometimes occurs. This is a heart disease during which blood stagnates in the vessels of the heart, causing pulmonary edema. The disease is difficult to predict, so you should simply have your cat examined regularly by a veterinarian so that he can identify early signs of the disease. Otherwise the animal dies.

Since Neva masquerade cats love to walk, it is necessary to strictly observe prevention against parasites: both external and internal. Regularly give products that remove worms from the body, and also make sure that fleas do not appear in your pet’s luxurious fur.