The Somali cat is a stunning and majestic pet that can easily be mistaken for a fox. Its regal appearance makes it a true royal among pets. But don’t let its elegant appearance fool you, as this feline has the perfect qualities of a wonderful companion. The Somali cat is highly sociable and friendly, easily forming bonds with both humans and other pets. It also possesses an exceptional intellect and human-like tendencies that add to its captivating charm.
The Somali cat is a stunning-looking feline with a resemblance to a fox and an elegant demeanor befitting of royalty. This breed typically weighs up to 5.5 kg and has a medium-sized physique. They are similar in appearance to the Abyssinian but have more rounded contours and longer hair. Their sleek bodies are long and close to the Eastern type, and their backs are slightly convex. They have slender and strong limbs with compact paws, and when viewed from the front, their heads have a triangular shape with rounded corners. The face is not pointed, and their eyes are large and almond-shaped with a rim. A vertical mark above each eye in the shape of an “M” is visible, which is referred to as the balance. Somali cats eye colors can vary from golden to amber and green.
Somali cats have distinctive features, including large, erect ears with tassels on the ends and a unique “fingerprint” marking on the back. Their tails resemble that of a fox with long, fluffy fur. The semi-long coat is dense and soft, with shorter hair on the muzzle, front of shoulders, and limbs, and longer hair on the chest, rump, and tail, creating a stunning collar and pants. Each hair strand on the Somali tends to have 2-8 alternating rings, with the upper ring being dark, resulting in a ticked appearance. These cats come in various colors, such as blue, silver black, silver red, and more. In terms of character, Somali cats are known to be intelligent, playful, and affectionate with their owners.
The Somali feline is frequently likened to their nearest kin, the Abyssinians, in both looks and personality. As for physical traits, we have already established their similarities. However, when it comes to temperament, the Somali cat is known to be more composed and tranquil than its predecessor. The Somali breed boasts a level-headed disposition alongside a sharp intellect. They are nimble and energetic while retaining a calm demeanor. Thanks to their amiable nature and sociability, they make fantastic companions for both children and other pets. The Somali feline is even known to forge bonds with dogs.
Somali felines have a huge capacity for affection and crave attention from their owners. They can even become possessive of their owners due to their inborn sense of ownership. Additionally, Somali cats possess a sharp intellect, making it easy for them to learn how to open doors, turn on faucets, and delve into the most hidden and inaccessible places. Typically, these pets end up being an integral part of the family – the eternal spirit of the group, steadfast companions, and a source of immense pride for their owners.
Somali felines are known for their robust health and strong immune system. Although some professionals speculate that they may be prone to autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.
With adequate care and attention, Somali cats can live up to 14-16 years on average. It is crucial to provide them with the necessary care to ensure their well-being.
The Somali feline is not well-equipped to handle cold temperatures, and while living in a city apartment may seem comfortable, it’s not the ideal environment for this breed. These cats are natural hunters and require ample opportunities to exercise their skills to live a fulfilling life. Ideally, a country house with a private enclosed yard or garden would provide the perfect space for this little hunter to explore and roam freely.
To maintain the health and hygiene of Somalis, it is recommended to brush their wool at least once a week, clean their ears, and trim their claws as needed. In addition, providing proper nutrition, routine vaccinations, treatment against parasites, and regular check-ups are essential for keeping these pets healthy. The Somali breed was accidentally developed by crossing Abyssinians with longhaired cats. Initially, breeders considered the resulting fluffy kittens as defects, but Canadian specialists in the 1960s decided to consolidate the semi-long hair gene in Abyssinians, resulting in the creation of a new breed. By 1972, Somalis participated in their first show, and in 1978, the breed was officially recognized by CFA.
Just a fun fact, Somali cats got their name from Somalia, which is right next to where Abyssinian cats come from in Ethiopia. Nowadays, Somali cats are known for being one of the most stunning breeds out there.
