The Somali Cat is the long-haired version of the Abyssinian, one of the oldest known cat breeds. Though Abyssinians have existed for centuries, the Somali variation was first noticed in the mid-20th century, when some Abyssinian litters included kittens with longer coats due to a recessive gene.
Initially, these longhaired kittens were not favored by breeders, but in the 1960s, breeders in North America and Australia began to selectively breed them, creating the Somali as a distinct breed. The Somali gained recognition from The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in the 1970s and 1980s.
The Somali is less common than the Abyssinian but has gained popularity due to its striking appearance, lively personality, and affectionate nature. It is particularly loved in the United States, Canada, and Europe, where long-haired breeds are often favored.
The Somali is a medium-sized, athletic cat with a long, bushy tail and a luxurious coat.
• Coat: Soft, fine, and medium-to-long, with a distinctive ticked pattern.
• Colors: Comes in four primary colors:
o Ruddy (rich reddish-brown with black ticking)
o Blue (grayish-blue with darker ticking)
o Fawn (warm beige with cinnamon ticking)
o Sorrel (copper-red with chocolate ticking)
• Size: Medium-sized, weighing between 6 to 12 pounds.
• Head & Expression: Wedge-shaped head with large, almond-shaped gold or green eyes.
• Ears: Large, pointed, and alert, giving them a fox-like appearance.
• Tail: Long and bushy, resembling a fox’s tail.
• Body: Slender, muscular, and built for agility and speed.
The Somali is known for its high energy, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making it an ideal companion for active households.
• Extremely Playful: Loves running, climbing, and interactive games.
• Highly Social and Affectionate: Bonds closely with its human family.
• Very Intelligent: Enjoys learning tricks, solving puzzles, and playing fetch.
• Curious and Adventurous: Always exploring its surroundings.
• Gentle but Energetic: Not aggressive but requires regular playtime.
For those looking for an active, affectionate, and visually stunning feline companion, the Somali is an excellent choice.
• Perfect for Active Owners: Enjoys interactive play and mental stimulation.
• Unique Wild Appearance: Resembles a miniature fox with its long tail and large ears.
• Highly Intelligent and Trainable: Can learn tricks and enjoy agility training.
• Great for Multi-Pet Homes: Gets along well with other cats and even dogs.
• Loyal and Loving: Forms a strong bond with its owners and loves companionship.
The Somali requires regular grooming, a nutritious diet, and lots of physical activity to stay happy and healthy.
• Grooming:
o Brushing 2–3 times per week helps prevent tangles and mats.
o During shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended.
• Exercise: Needs daily physical activity, including climbing trees, chase games, and interactive play.
• Mental Stimulation: Thrives on puzzle feeders, hunting-style games, and social interaction.
• Nutrition: A high-protein diet supports their muscular build and active nature.
• Companionship: Prefers a home where they receive plenty of attention and interaction.
The Somali is generally a healthy breed, but some concerns include:
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic eye disease that can cause vision loss.
• Obesity Prevention: Due to their active nature, a balanced diet is essential.
• Dental Health: Regular brushing and vet checkups help prevent gum disease.
• Anemia (Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency - PKD): A genetic condition found in some Somali lines.
Compared to the Abyssinian, the Somali has a longer coat and a fluffier tail, making it look more luxurious and wild. Unlike the Maine Coon, which is also long-haired, the Somali is smaller, more agile, and higher-energy.
Compared to the Bengal, another active breed, the Somali is less stocky and more fox-like in appearance.
The Somali is perfect for cat lovers who want an active, intelligent, and affectionate companion. If you enjoy a playful, interactive cat with a stunning coat, the Somali will be a fantastic choice.
However, if you prefer a relaxed, low-maintenance lap cat, this breed may require more attention than expected.
United Pet Club is here to help you find the perfect Somali companion. Whether you're looking to adopt or connect with trusted breeders, we provide valuable resources to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our platform to learn more about Somali Cats, their history, and how to care for them. Contact United Pet Club today to start your journey with this stunning and playful feline!