Somali
Breed Description

The Somali cat's name reflects a deliberate choice that honors its relationship to the Abyssinian breed while establishing its own identity. When long-haired kittens began appearing in Abyssinian litters, breeders needed a distinct name for what they initially considered a separate breed. They chose Somali, the name of the country neighboring Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia), to acknowledge the connection while creating a unique identity for these stunning long-haired cats.

The breed is officially registered simply as Somali with all major cat registries, including The International Cat Association (TICA), the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), and the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). Unlike many breeds with multiple regional name variations, the Somali name has been universally adopted worldwide. Some cat enthusiasts affectionately call them Fox Cats due to their bushy tails and fox-like appearance, though this is a descriptive nickname rather than an official alternate name.

Historically, before the breed gained recognition, long-haired Abyssinians were sometimes called Long-haired Abyssinians, which was technically accurate but didn't capture their distinctive characteristics. Some breeders initially referred to them as simply longhairs when they first appeared in Abyssinian breeding programs. However, once fanciers recognized these cats deserved breed status, the name Somali became standard. Today, the name is recognized globally and immediately identifies these beautiful, energetic cats with their characteristic ticked coats and flowing fur. The name has proven both memorable and appropriate, linking the breed to its Abyssinian heritage while celebrating its unique qualities.

The Somali presents a picture of wild elegance combined with graceful athleticism. These are medium-sized cats with lithe, muscular bodies that reflect their active lifestyle. Males typically weigh between eight and twelve pounds, while females are slightly smaller at six to ten pounds. Their bodies are moderately long with a slight arch to the back when standing, giving them a ready-to-spring appearance that matches their energetic nature.

The breed's most distinctive feature is its gorgeous semi-long coat with a unique ticked pattern inherited from the Abyssinian. Each hair shaft displays multiple bands of color, creating a shimmering, iridescent effect that changes as the cat moves. The coat is soft and fine in texture, lying relatively flat against the body except for the dramatic ruff around the neck, full britches on the hind legs, and the magnificent plumed tail that has earned them the nickname Fox Cat. The coat takes up to two years to fully develop, with males typically displaying more dramatic furnishings than females.

Somali colors follow the same patterns as Abyssinians, with the ticked or agouti pattern required in all recognized colors. The original and most common color is ruddy, displaying warm burnt-sienna tones ticked with darker brown or black. Red Somalis show copper-red base color with chocolate ticking, while blue varieties present soft blue-gray with deeper slate ticking. Fawn Somalis feature warm pinkish-buff tones with deeper fawn ticking. Some registries also recognize silver versions of these colors, where the base coat shows silver-white with colored ticking.

The head is a modified wedge with soft contours and no flat planes, featuring large, almond-shaped eyes that may be gold, copper, or green, always rimmed with dark color. Their large, alert ears are set wide apart and cupped at the base, often with tufts and horizontal furnishings that enhance their wild appearance. The ears appear constantly listening, reflecting the breed's alert nature. Dark lines extend from the eyes and brows, creating expressive markings. The overall impression is one of a small wild cat, combining beauty with an untamed appearance that captivates everyone who sees them.

The Somali breed emerged unexpectedly from Abyssinian breeding programs, resulting from a recessive gene for long hair that had existed unnoticed in Abyssinian lines for decades. While Abyssinians are naturally short-haired, the long-hair gene was present in the breed's genetic makeup, likely introduced during the breed's development in the early twentieth century when outcrosses to other breeds may have occurred. For many years, when long-haired kittens appeared in Abyssinian litters, they were considered undesirable and were typically sold as pets without registration.

The journey toward recognition began in the 1960s when several breeders simultaneously discovered they had been producing these beautiful long-haired cats. In Canada, breeder Mary Mailing was actively working with long-haired Abyssinians, while in the United States, Evelyn Mague of New Jersey received a long-haired Abyssinian kitten she named George. Recognizing the beauty and unique qualities of these cats, Mague began deliberately breeding them. She consulted with geneticists who confirmed that two Abyssinians carrying the recessive long-hair gene would produce long-haired kittens.

Mague coined the name Somali for these cats, choosing to honor their connection to Abyssinians while establishing them as a distinct breed. In 1972, she founded the Somali Cat Club of America, the first breed club dedicated to these cats. The breed faced initial resistance from Abyssinian breeders who worried that recognizing long-haired cats would harm the Abyssinian breed's reputation. However, supporters persisted, arguing that these cats had distinct characteristics beyond coat length that warranted separate breed status.

The Canadian Cat Association granted championship status to Somalis in 1978, making it the first major registry to recognize the breed. The Cat Fanciers' Association accepted Somalis for registration in 1978 and granted championship status in 1979. The International Cat Association followed with recognition in 1979. European registries were initially more resistant, but the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy in Britain recognized the breed in 1981. Fédération Internationale Féline granted recognition in 1982.

As the breed gained recognition, breeders worked to expand the color range beyond the original ruddy, introducing red, blue, and fawn colors through careful breeding programs. The breed's popularity grew as cat lovers discovered their stunning appearance and engaging personalities. Today, Somalis are established worldwide, though they remain less common than many other breeds. They've earned a devoted following among people who appreciate their beauty, intelligence, and boundless energy. The breed continues to be intimately connected with Abyssinians, as occasional long-haired kittens still appear in Abyssinian litters and are now welcomed as valuable additions to Somali breeding programs.

Somalis are perpetual motion machines with personalities as vibrant as their appearance. These cats possess seemingly endless energy and curiosity that drives them to investigate every corner of their environment. They're not content to simply observe life but must participate actively in all household activities. Expect to find your Somali on top of the refrigerator, inside cabinets, or investigating the contents of every bag brought home. Their curiosity extends to everything, and they'll use their remarkable intelligence to figure out how to access anything that interests them.

Playfulness defines the Somali temperament more than perhaps any other trait. These cats never truly outgrow their kitten phase and remain enthusiastically playful throughout their lives. They invent games, chase imaginary prey, and perform acrobatic leaps that seem to defy physics. Many Somalis excel at fetch, retrieving toys and returning them for another throw. They appreciate interactive play with their humans and become bored quickly without adequate stimulation. Providing multiple play sessions daily is essential for their well-being and prevents destructive behaviors that can result from boredom.

Despite their busy nature, Somalis are genuinely affectionate cats that form strong bonds with their families. They show love by following family members from room to room, sitting nearby during quiet moments, and greeting people at the door. However, they're not typically lap cats who cuddle for extended periods. They prefer to be near their people rather than on them, and they show affection on their own terms. When they do settle down, which usually happens in the evening after a day of activity, they become sweet and loving companions.

Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, and Somalis rank among the smartest cat breeds. They solve problems quickly, learn to open doors and cabinets, and understand cause-and-effect relationships. This intelligence makes them trainable, and many Somalis learn to walk on leashes, perform tricks, and respond to their names. However, their cleverness can be challenging, as they'll quickly figure out how to get into things you'd rather keep secure. Child-proof locks may be necessary for cabinets containing anything dangerous or tempting.

Somalis are social cats that don't do well when left alone for long periods. They need companionship, whether from humans or other pets, and can become destructive or depressed when isolated. They typically get along well with other active cats and with cat-friendly dogs, as they appreciate having playmates who can match their energy. Their social nature extends to visitors, whom they usually greet with interest after an initial assessment period. The combination of energy, intelligence, playfulness, and affection creates a demanding but deeply rewarding companion for those prepared to meet their needs.

Caring for a Somali requires commitment to meeting their substantial physical and mental stimulation needs. These cats need extensive environmental enrichment to channel their boundless energy constructively. Multiple tall cat trees placed strategically throughout the home provide vertical territory that Somalis love to explore. Wall-mounted shelves creating cat highways allow them to navigate rooms at ceiling level, satisfying their climbing instincts. Window perches with views of outdoor activity provide entertainment for hours.

Daily interactive play sessions are absolutely essential for Somali wellbeing. Plan for at least two to three vigorous play periods daily using various toys to maintain interest. Wand toys with feathers or strings trigger their hunting instincts and provide excellent exercise. Many Somalis enjoy playing fetch and will bring toys back repeatedly. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys provide mental stimulation while satisfying hunting behaviors. Some owners invest in cat exercise wheels, which Somalis often master quickly and use enthusiastically.

Somalis are highly intelligent cats that benefit from training and mental challenges. Clicker training works well with this breed, and many learn tricks, come when called, and walk on harnesses for outdoor exploration. Rotating toys prevents boredom, as Somalis tire of the same playthings quickly. Some owners create obstacle courses or play hide-and-seek games to engage their Somali's problem-solving abilities.

These social cats need companionship and don't thrive when left alone for extended periods. If your household is empty during work hours, consider adopting two Somalis or providing another active cat companion. A lonely Somali may develop destructive behaviors or become depressed. They want to be involved in family activities and appreciate being included rather than isolated.

Safety considerations are important for these adventurous, intelligent cats. Somalis will investigate everything, so secure cabinets containing cleaning supplies, medications, or anything potentially harmful. Keep toilet lids closed and ensure plants in the home are non-toxic. Screen windows and balconies securely, as these athletic cats can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Many Somalis enjoy supervised outdoor time in secure cat enclosures or on leash walks, providing safe enrichment opportunities. With proper care addressing their extensive needs, Somalis flourish as vibrant, engaging family members.

Somalis require high-quality nutrition to fuel their active lifestyle and maintain their sleek, muscular physiques. These energetic cats burn calories rapidly through constant activity, so they typically need more food than less active breeds of similar size. Choose premium cat foods with high-quality animal proteins as the primary ingredients, as cats are obligate carnivores requiring meat-based nutrition to thrive.

The specific amount to feed depends on individual factors including age, activity level, metabolism, and whether the cat is spayed or neutered. Adult Somalis typically need between two hundred and three hundred calories daily, though very active individuals may require more. Kittens need higher caloric intake to support their rapid growth and should eat kitten-specific formulas until they reach maturity around one year of age. Monitor body condition regularly and adjust portions to maintain ideal weight with visible waist and easily felt ribs.

Many Somali owners find success with scheduled meal times rather than free-feeding, as it allows monitoring of appetite and prevents overeating. Most adult Somalis do well with two to three meals spread throughout the day. Some owners combine wet and dry food, providing moisture from canned food while offering the dental benefits of crunchy kibble. Fresh water should always be available, and many Somalis enjoy drinking from cat fountains, which encourage adequate hydration.

The breed's high energy level makes puzzle feeders particularly beneficial, as they satisfy hunting instincts while providing mental stimulation during meals. These devices make cats work for their food, extending feeding time and preventing boredom. Some owners hide small portions of food around the house, creating scavenger hunts that engage natural foraging behaviors. Avoid feeding toxic foods including onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, and anything containing xylitol. While Somalis rarely become obese due to their activity level, monitor weight carefully and adjust feeding if needed to maintain optimal body condition.

Abyssinians are generally robust and healthy cats when obtained from reputable breeders who perform genetic health testing. However, like all purebred cats, they can be predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that potential owners should understand. The average lifespan ranges from 12-15 years, with many living longer when provided with excellent care.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye disease that affects Abyssinians more than many other breeds. This condition causes gradual vision loss, typically beginning around 2-5 years of age and progressing to complete blindness. Responsible breeders test for the genetic mutation causing PRA and avoid breeding affected cats. Early signs include difficulty navigating in dim light and bumping into objects at night. While PRA cannot be cured, affected cats adapt remarkably well to blindness in familiar environments.

Renal amyloidosis is a serious genetic kidney disease seen with higher frequency in Abyssinians compared to other breeds. This condition involves abnormal protein deposits in the kidneys, causing progressive kidney damage. Symptoms typically appear between 1-5 years of age and include increased thirst, frequent urination, decreased appetite, and weight loss. The disease progresses to chronic kidney failure if untreated. Genetic testing can identify carriers, helping breeders make informed decisions.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects Abyssinians as it does many cat breeds. This heart condition causes thickening of the heart muscle, potentially leading to heart failure. Many cats show no symptoms until the disease is advanced. Regular veterinary checkups with cardiac evaluation help detect this condition early. Some Abyssinians may carry genetic markers for HCM, making screening important for breeding cats.

Dental disease affects Abyssinians, particularly gingivitis and periodontal disease if oral care is neglected. Their teeth require regular attention to prevent painful infections and tooth loss. Some Abyssinians develop early-onset dental problems despite good care. Pyruvate kinase deficiency is a rare genetic condition affecting red blood cells, causing intermittent anemia. Modern genetic testing can identify carriers of this mutation.

Preventive care is essential for maintaining Abyssinian health throughout their lives. Regular veterinary checkups at least annually, increasing to twice yearly for senior cats, allow early detection of health issues. Genetic health screening before breeding helps reduce hereditary conditions in future generations. Many breeders now test for PRA, renal amyloidosis, and pyruvate kinase deficiency. Dental care including regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings prevents serious oral health problems. Weight management through proper diet and exercise prevents obesity, which can exacerbate other health conditions.

Vaccination schedules should be maintained according to veterinary recommendations, protecting against common feline diseases. Parasite prevention including regular treatments for fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites maintains overall health. Indoor living significantly extends lifespan by protecting cats from traffic, predators, diseases, and toxins. Spaying and neutering provides health benefits while preventing unwanted litters.

With proper preventive care, responsible breeding practices, and prompt attention to any health concerns, Abyssinians can enjoy long, healthy lives as active, engaging companions. Choosing kittens from breeders who perform health testing and provide health guarantees gives owners the best chance of a healthy cat.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Abyssinian's health and longevity.

The Somali's stunning coat features the same ticked agouti pattern that defines Abyssinians, where each hair displays multiple bands of color creating a shimmering effect. The breed is recognized in four main colors by most registries. Ruddy is the original and most common color, featuring rich reddish-brown base color ticked with darker brown or black, creating warm, glowing tones. Red Somalis display bright copper-red base coats ticked with darker red or chocolate, producing vibrant orange-red appearance. Blue Somalis show soft blue-gray base color with deeper slate-blue ticking, creating cool, subtle tones. Fawn represents the dilute version of red, featuring warm beige-pink base tones with deeper fawn ticking.

Some registries recognize silver variations of these four base colors, where the undercoat appears white or silver instead of the warmer base tones. Silver versions create a striking contrast between the light base and darker ticking. All colors should show clear ticking with no solid patches, and preference is given to cats with multiple bands on each hair shaft. The belly, chest, and inside of legs display lighter tones than the back and sides, creating natural shading. Darker shading along the spine enhances the wild appearance.

The Somali's semi-long coat is surprisingly easy to maintain despite its length and fullness. The fine texture and relatively sparse undercoat mean the hair rarely mats or tangles significantly. Most Somalis need brushing only two to three times weekly to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. A metal comb works well for working through the coat, while a soft brush finishes the grooming session. During spring and fall shedding seasons, daily brushing helps manage increased hair loss.

The coat develops slowly, with kittens appearing quite short-haired initially. The full coat with dramatic ruff, britches, and plumed tail doesn't appear until the cat reaches eighteen months to two years of age. Males typically develop more impressive furnishings than females. Bathing is rarely necessary unless the cat gets into something messy, as the coat naturally repels dirt. Most Somalis enjoy the attention of grooming sessions, making coat care a pleasant bonding experience. The lack of dense undercoat means the breed tolerates grooming better than many long-haired cats.

Somalis can be excellent family cats, particularly in homes with older children who understand how to interact appropriately with pets. These energetic cats appreciate playmates who can engage them in active games and respect their boundaries when they need space. Children who can throw toys for fetch, operate wand toys, and create treasure hunts will find enthusiastic participants in Somalis. The breed's intelligence and trainability allow them to learn household rules, including which behaviors are acceptable during play.

However, Somalis may become overwhelmed by very young children whose movements are unpredictable and loud. Toddlers who grab, squeeze, or chase cats can trigger stress in these sensitive felines. The Somali's response to discomfort is typically to flee rather than scratch, but they may defend themselves if cornered. Families with young children should supervise all interactions carefully and teach children to respect the cat's need for calm space. Creating elevated escape routes allows Somalis to remove themselves from overwhelming situations.

The high energy level that makes Somalis entertaining can sometimes result in overstimulation during play. They may scratch or bite during intense play sessions, not from aggression but from excitement. Teaching children to recognize when the cat needs a break and to use toys rather than hands during play prevents accidental injuries. Providing multiple daily play sessions helps burn excess energy and reduces overstimulated behavior.

Somalis generally adapt well to living with other pets, especially other active cats or cat-friendly dogs. They appreciate having companions who can match their energy level and serve as playmates. Two Somalis often form close bonds and entertain each other when humans are busy. They typically establish relationships with dogs quickly, especially if raised together from young ages. However, their high prey drive means caution is necessary around small pets like birds, hamsters, or fish.

Successful integration with other pets requires gradual, supervised introductions. Somalis' confident nature usually helps them adapt to new animals relatively quickly. They rarely show aggression toward other pets but may play too roughly for older or sedate animals. Matching Somalis with pets of similar energy levels produces the most harmonious households. With proper management and respect for their needs, Somalis can thrive as beloved members of multi-pet, multi-child families.