The Somali cat, often referred to as the “Longhaired Abyssinian,” is a captivating breed that blends the striking appearance of the Abyssinian with a luxurious, medium-long coat. This breed offers the best of both worlds, possessing exquisite ticked coats, distinctive facial markings, and the vibrant personality that makes Abyssinians so beloved. If you’re considering welcoming a Somali into your home, prepare for a companion that is as engaging as they are affectionate.
Personality and Temperament
Somali cats are renowned for their outgoing, inquisitive, and lively nature. They form strong bonds with their families, often described as loving companions. While they may be initially reserved with strangers, they typically warm up quickly and form new friendships. Their curiosity and alertness mean they are always eager to be involved in household activities. Whether it’s exploring an open cupboard or investigating a running faucet, Somalis approach life with playful enthusiasm. Their intelligence allows them to master opening doors and drawers, sometimes even turning on taps to entertain themselves with water. Despite their playful antics, Somalis are also incredibly affectionate. They enjoy curling up on laps, offering cuddles, and engaging in gentle head-butts, making them wonderful companions, especially on chilly evenings.
Care Guide
Nutrition
Somali cats do not have unique nutritional requirements beyond thriving on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. It is recommended to feed them a high-quality commercial brand that lists real meat or fish as the primary ingredient, or to offer fresh food options.
Grooming
Due to their thick, plush double coats, Somali cats require regular brushing to remove loose hairs and prevent matting. Incorporating routine tooth brushing into their care regimen is also beneficial. To protect furnishings and skin from potential damage from their active nature, keeping their claws trimmed is advised. Introducing grooming routines early in kittenhood will make these tasks easier as they mature.
Exercise
Somali cats are exceptional athletes with impressive jumping and leaping abilities. They are known for their speed and bursts of energy, which are typically followed by periods of rest. Providing ample space for play, along with appropriate structures like sturdy cat trees and scratching posts, is crucial. Engaging toys that allow for interactive play are also highly recommended. Many Somalis also enjoy the stimulation of leashed walks outdoors, which is best taught from a young age.
Health
Generally, Somali cats are considered robust and healthy. However, potential owners should be aware of a few inherited conditions, though these are not common. These include feline infectious anemia (FIA), autoimmune-mediated hemolytic anemia (AIHA), pyruvate kinase deficiency, myeldodysplasia, renal degeneration, osmotic fragility, and renal amyloidosis. Responsible breeders will screen their cats for genetic conditions.
History of the Somali Cat
The origins of the Somali cat breed can be traced back to the 1940s, even before gaining official breed recognition. Abyssinian cat breeders began exporting kittens internationally. Occasionally, these cats produced long-haired Abyssinian kittens. A significant figure in the breed’s development was Raby Chuffa of Selene, a long-haired Abyssinian showcased in the United States. By the 1960s, interest in these long-haired Abyssinians grew, despite some breeders’ initial resistance. Enthusiasts dedicated themselves to developing and promoting this new variety. Evelyn Mague, an American breeder, is credited with naming the breed “Somali.” Through further breeding with other lines, international attention for the Somali cat increased. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) officially recognized the breed in 1979, though widespread international recognition took over a decade to achieve.
Did You Know?
- The Somali’s striking coat, prominent ears, and bushy tail have earned it the nickname “Fox Cat.”
- There are 28 recognized Somali cat colors, although not all breed registries accept every color.
- Somali cats are known to enjoy playing fetch and may bring a favorite toy to their owners in anticipation of a game.
The Breed Standard
Body and Head
The Somali is a medium to large cat with a well-muscled, medium-long torso, giving an impression of lean grace with a slightly arched back. The head is a modified, gently rounded wedge with no flat planes. The muzzle and chin are rounded, and there should be no whisker pinch, though males may develop jowls.
Ears
Ears should be large and alert, with a preference for horizontal tufts within the inner ear.
Eyes
Eyes are large, almond-shaped, and expressive, framed by dark lid skin with a lighter-colored encircling area. A distinct dark vertical line should accent the area above each eye, with a finer pencil line extending from the upper lid towards the base of the ear. Preferred eye colors are gold or green, with richer, deeper tones being more desirable.
Legs and Paws
Legs should be well-proportioned to the torso, and the paws should be compact and oval-shaped.
Tail
The tail is thick at the base, slightly tapered, and well-furnished with a full brush.
Coat
The Somali coat is a fine double coat of medium length, characterized by its density. It features a ruff and breeches, with slightly shorter fur across the shoulders.
Color
Somali cats come in Ruddy, Red, Fawn, or Blue colors, distinguished by clear, even ticking on each hair shaft. Unmarked cats are preferred, though some darker shading is acceptable. Nose leather and paw pad colors should complement the coat. Additional accepted colors in some registries include chocolate, lilac, tortie variations, and silver variants.
Finding a Somali Cat or Kitten
While adoption is encouraged, Somali cats are rarely found in shelters and rescues due to their purebred status. Resources like Petfinder can help locate cats that are confirmed Somalis or possess similar traits. It’s important to note that shelters may sometimes misidentify mixed-breed cats as purebreds. If you are set on purchasing a Somali, contacting a reputable local breeder is recommended for more information.
