The Somali cat lives life to the fullest and much like his sibling Abyssinian, he climbs and jumps anywhere possible. They resemble Abyssinians in appearance and in temperament. They are beautiful and semi-long haired cats and nothing escapes their notice.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 11-16 years
Color: Medium length, fine and soft
Coat: Soft and sleek
Average Height: Medium-sized
Average Weight: 6-10 pounds
History and Domestication
The Abyssinian is one of the oldest breeds of cats known today but the real lineage of the breed is lost in time. There are many theories surrounding them and how they came to be. Romantic tales suggest that these cats belonged to Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt because they look like cats from Egyptian murals. Others believe that British soldiers brought back home an Abyssinian cat named Zula at the end of Abyssinian War in 1868. The first Somalis were noted in the Abyssinian litter in the 20th century. This was a longhaired variety of the Aby and probably came about when breeders introduced some longhaired cats in the breeding program. These cats were given a separate name ‘Somali’ as an acknowledgement to the country’s geographic status and its next door neighbor Ethiopia (Abyssinia).
Standard Physical Characteristics
Apart from the additional coat length, the Somali looks like the Abyssinian with the same ticked coat. The ticking may however take longer to develop than that of an Aby. Somalis have a muscular and sturdy body which is very athletic. The body is supported on fine, long legs over oval and small paws. It is often said that Somalis walk on tip-toe. The rounded wedge-shaped head has large broad ears which give him a very attentive look. The large almond-shaped eyes are of the color of gold or green and seem to express interest in everything.
Care, Grooming and Health
The medium length coat needs to be brushed once or twice a week to keep away any tangles and remove dead hair. They need more grooming during their shedding season, a bath at that time will be needed.
Somalis suffer from certain health problems such as periodontal disease, PRA, patellar luxation and pyruvate kidney deficiency.
Living Conditions
The social and active Somali is perfect for families with kids and cat-friendly dogs. He loves playing fetch and will readily learn new tricks.
Temperament
The Somalis are highly intelligent and affectionate cats. They are very interactive with their owners. The highly inquisitive cats will leave no corner unexplored but you will find them knocking things off. They make wonderful companions and are very interested in their surroundings or whatever you do. Expect to see them on top of refrigerator, bookcases or doors. They are interested in anything that moves and can keep themselves entertained for hours. They aren’t typical lap cats due to their high energy but will occasionally sit on your lap or sneak in your covers. They are happiest when they have company.
