Not only were African cats crossed with domestic ones to produce interesting kittens. The Neva Masquerade is a breed that was developed in Saint Petersburg relatively recently – in 1992. The breed is a result of crossing Siberian cats with Siamese ones.
You can purchase such a cat not only in the aggressor country. The breed has proven to be successful and has won the hearts of many cat enthusiasts. For instance, in Lviv, there is an offer to reserve a Neva Masquerade cat with a Seal Tabby Point coloration. It has "champion" lineage, and importantly, the new owners will receive it already sterilized. The cat can even be shipped abroad, although this will happen in the second half of March. The price is 900 US dollars, or 37,300 hryvnias.
The breed got its name from the Neva River, which flows through Saint Petersburg, as well as from the characteristic "mask" – the dark-colored fur on its face that resembles a mask. This is one of the main external features of the breed. Additionally, the coloration of these cats is usually lighter on the body and darker on the ears, tail, and face, which also resembles the coloring of Siamese cats.
The Neva Masquerade was bred to combine the best traits of Siberian cats, known for their health and endurance, with the grace and elegance of Siamese cats. As a result, a breed emerged with luxurious long fur typical of Siberians and a striking, expressive appearance characteristic of Siamese. Representatives of this breed are considered long-lived – living 16-18 years.
Previously, "Telegraph" reported on another breed with a "mask" on its face. The Burmese cat was a favorite of Karl Lagerfeld.