Home - Murlyka Siberian Cattery

Diane with Sasha and Nökö

Murlyka – What’s in a Name?

Murlyka, from the Russian word murlykat, meaning to purr, is a commonly used pet name in Russia. There is a popular Russian children’s book Kot Murlyka. The pronounciation for Murylka is “moorlyka”. Thanks to Sonia at Russian=English for her assistance in developing a list of possible names.

The cattery developed as I followed my heart. Our cats are first and foremost beloved members of the household. I have always had cats in my life - both feral and domestic. When it came time to replace a loved domestic cat pet that died at sixteen years of age, my research led me to Siberian cats. At first I was interested in Siberians because I have very mild cat allergies and the “hypoallergenic cat” claim caught my interest. The more I learned – the more I wanted to become further involved in preserving and developing the Traditional Siberian cat, not only because of its “hypoallergenic” potential but simply because it is a magnificent breed worth cultivating and preserving. Receiving my first two Siberian cats made me even more excited. To be exact - to have such beauty and amazing temperament all in one playful and loving package was beyond my wildest dreams as a cat owner. I soon wanted more cat lovers to be able to experience such a “purr-fectlly” wonderful pet and decided to begin breeding.

Since our Siberian cats are incredible purrers who tend to purr nonstop, Murlyka seemed the perfect name for the cattery.

I have been fortunate to have ongoing support and encouragement from Merja Tolonen of Amante’s Siberian Cats, the breeder of my big boy  Nökö.  My foundation cats (featured on the above header) brought old and strong Russian Siberian lines in a modern mix of Finnish and US breeding. (Nökö’s parents are Czech and Swiss breeding and Anya’s parents are Russian and Polish). Anya and her daughter Alina have now retired to lead the pampered life in with a great family in Vernon.

NEW FEMALES and KITTEN PLANS:

Prekrasne Roxie Hart of Murlyka joined our cattery in November 2009. Roxie will be having her first litter with Sasha (Murlyka Alexandre). Thanks to Sue Case of Prekrasne for sharing this spunky and beautiful little girl - she has captured all our hearts.

Amante's Queen Harlequin (Miisu) joined us from Finland in March 2010.  She is an absolute love.  Learn more about her on her webpage. Thanks to Merja Tolonen for another beautiful cat. We hope that Sasha and Miisu have kittens later in the summer.

If you are interested in a Murlyka kitten please check out the Adopting a Murlyka Kitten page.

Cattery Goals and Ethical Standards