The Traditional Cat Association, Inc.©¹⁹⁸⁷®^TM Official Website
Founded 1987, by Diana L. Fineran 

Neva Masquerade Cat (AKA Traditional Colorpoint Siberian Forest Cat) History
© July 2006 - Diana Fineran & Marion Susan Majdiak  

Neva Masquerade Cat Breeders

History:

“Neva-Masquerade” is the Traditional Colorpoint Siberian Forest Cat. Given a festive name due to the more decorative coats. The Neva originates in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) and along the Neva River. When other cats breeds were imported to this area the Siberian was mixed with pointed cats such as Balinese, Siamese, Persians, Himalayans, etc., this created offspring with a – fluffy coat with pointed color. Some claim this mix was natural, why others claim intentional.  
(Photo courtesy of Roger Kendrick)

General: 

The ideal Traditional Neva Masquerade is a medium sized, robust, strong, luxuriously medium to long haired cat, originating along the Neva River, thus their  name. They are believed to be a mixed breed based upon Siberian, Persian and Siamese bloodlines. Mature cats are powerfully built with an overall appearance of strength, force, and alertness.  Powerful hind legs are slightly longer than the front.  They possess a natural, loving facial expression. Their all weather coat is dense and full and varies in length and density of undercoat with the seasons. The Traditional Neva Masquerade originally endured the harsh, cold climate of its native Russia.  It has since easily adapted to varied environments.  It can take 5 years for an adult cat to attain full size and splendor so allowance must be made when judging kittens and young cats.  Allowance must be made for a some times significant, gender based, difference in size.  Mature males may have larger and broader heads than females. Type takes presidence over size and color

Health:

No known genetic defects.