Somali

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Athletic “fox cat” with a plumed tail, large ears, and a glowing, ticked coat that looks almost wild.
• Highly intelligent and playful, often learning tricks, puzzle toys, and even simple games of fetch.
• Strong social instincts, usually bonding closely with their family and often following favorite people from room to room.
• Low shedding compared with many semi‑longhaired breeds, with a silky coat that is relatively easy to care for.
• Agile climber that enjoys height, so tall cat trees, shelves, and window perches are almost essential.

Appearance & Coat

The Somali is often described as the longhaired version of the Abyssinian, yet in person it feels like a distinct breed with its own charm. Medium in size and finely built, the Somali has an elegant, athletic body that looks ready to spring into action at any moment. They are neither heavy nor fragile. When you lift a Somali, you can feel firm muscle under the silky coat, similar to lifting a small, well‑trained athlete rather than a soft toy.

The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a graceful neck, a gently rounded chest, and long, slim legs. The paws are oval and neat, almost like a small wildcat’s feet. The tail is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is full, softly plumed, and seems to float behind them when they move. Many people compare the Somali’s overall look to a little fox, especially when you add the large, alert ears and expressive, almond shaped eyes.

The head is a moderate wedge with soft contours, not extreme or flat. The eyes can be gold, green, or hazel, often with a dark outline that makes them appear strongly defined and very expressive. Their gaze is bright and curious, which fits their active personality.

The Somali coat is semi‑long, but it lies close to the body rather than puffing out. This gives the cat a sleek yet fluffy appearance, especially around the breeches on the rear legs, the ruff around the neck, and the feathery tail. The coat is soft and fine in texture, not woolly. It feels pleasant to stroke and rarely mats badly if the cat is groomed regularly.

One of the hallmarks of the Somali is the “ticked” coat pattern. Each hair on the body usually carries several bands of color, similar to a rabbit or wild hare. When the cat moves under light, this banding creates a warm, shimmering effect. Common colors include:

• Usual (ruddy), with a rich, warm base and black or dark brown ticking
• Sorrel, a cinnamon tone with chocolate or copper ticking
• Blue, with a soft, steel blue ticking on a warm beige base
• Fawn, a delicate, light beige with slightly darker ticking

Other colors and patterns may be recognized depending on the registry, but the classic image of a Somali is that sunlit, glowing, ticked coat that looks almost like a tiny jungle hunter in your living room.

Despite being semi‑longhaired, the Somali coat is fairly low maintenance. A thorough brushing once or twice a week is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat glossy. Use a stainless steel comb or a soft slicker brush and work gently from the tail towards the neck, paying special attention to the ruff, trousers, and under the armpits. During seasonal shedding, daily grooming may help prevent hairballs and tangles.

Baths are rarely necessary unless the cat has gotten into something messy. Instead, focus on regular combing, a balanced diet rich in quality protein, and fresh water to support healthy skin and coat. Checking the ears regularly, trimming claws every couple of weeks, and gently wiping the corners of the eyes as needed will help maintain that bright, foxlike appearance that makes the Somali so distinctive.

Temperament & Personality

Living with a Somali cat often feels like sharing your home with a lively, intelligent companion who always has a project in mind. They are energetic without being chaotic, curious without being overwhelming, and affectionate without being overly clingy in most cases. That said, they thrive on companionship and stimulation and can become bored if left alone too much.

Somalis are typically very people oriented. Many follow their owners around the house like a furry shadow, supervising daily tasks. If you are cooking, a Somali may sit on a stool to watch. If you are working on a laptop, you may find them slipping between you and the screen, trying to see what is so interesting. They enjoy being part of the family’s routine and often choose a favorite person, though they are usually friendly with everyone they know.

With children, Somali cats tend to do well if the children are gentle and respectful. Their playful nature matches well with active younger family members who enjoy wand toys, balls, and interactive games. It is wise to teach children how to handle a cat properly and to respect the cat’s signals when playtime is over. In a kind, structured home, a Somali can become a cheerful playmate who willingly joins in games of fetch or chase.

Around other cats, Somalis are often sociable, especially if they are introduced slowly and carefully. They enjoy having a feline friend, particularly one with a similar energy level. They can also get along with cat friendly dogs, especially breeds that are not too boisterous or rough. Early socialization is important. Controlled introductions, scent swapping, and gradual meetings will help your Somali feel safe and confident with new animal companions.

One of the biggest joys of the breed is their playfulness. Even as adults, Somali cats rarely lose their kittenlike behavior. They love toys that challenge their brains, such as puzzle feeders, treat mazes, and interactive games where they have to figure out how to “catch” a reward. Many learn simple tricks like sit, high five, or come when called. They are often quite agile and may invent games by themselves, such as batting small objects off shelves just to see what happens.

There are challenges to consider. Somalis are not typically couch potatoes who are content with hours of quiet each day. If their need for enrichment is not met, they may become vocal, demanding, or a little mischievous. Some will open cupboard doors, investigate drawers, or learn to operate door handles. Mental and physical stimulation through play, climbing, and training is essential to keep their clever minds satisfied.

On the affection scale, Somali cats are often loving but not always lap obsessed. Many enjoy sitting near you or on the back of the sofa rather than directly on your chest, although individuals vary. They usually appreciate gentle petting, scratching under the chin or behind the ears, and soft conversation. They seldom enjoy rough handling or being treated like a toy, so teaching all family members to be gentle will strengthen your bond and bring out the best of their warm, engaging personality.

Training & Exercise

The Somali is an active, athletic breed that truly appreciates a home where play and learning are part of everyday life. These cats combine physical energy with a sharp mind, which makes them excellent candidates for training and structured games. If you enjoy interacting closely with your cat rather than simply watching from a distance, a Somali can be a rewarding partner.

Exercise for a Somali should be both physical and mental. A few short bursts of interactive play spread throughout the day are more effective than one long session. Classic toys like feather wands, fishing rod toys, and light chaser toys are perfect for encouraging running, leaping, and pouncing. Somalis are excellent jumpers, so vertical play that involves climbing up and down cat trees or wall shelves gives them a chance to use their natural skills. Puzzle toys and treat balls encourage them to problem solve while staying active.

When it comes to training, Somali cats usually respond very well to positive reinforcement. They are often food motivated, though some will also work enthusiastically for affection, praise, or a favorite toy. Clicker training is especially effective. With a simple clicker and small, healthy treats, you can teach your Somali to:

• Come when called
• Sit or stand on command
• High five or touch a target with their paw or nose
• Spin in a circle, jump through a hoop, or weave between your legs

Short training sessions of 5 to 10 minutes help keep their attention without causing frustration. Always end on a success, offer a reward, and keep the tone light and playful. Training should feel like a game, not like a chore. This is also a powerful way to channel their natural curiosity into something you both enjoy.

Because Somalis love to climb, providing a variety of vertical spaces is almost a form of exercise in itself. Tall cat trees, sturdy bookcases, or wall mounted shelves let them explore different heights and viewpoints. Window perches are particularly appreciated, especially if they overlook a garden or bird feeder. Watching the world outside can be a gentle mental workout even on quieter days.

Some Somali owners successfully train their cats to accept a harness and leash. Outdoor walks in a safe, quiet area can give your cat a controlled way to explore new scents and sights. This requires patience and gradual desensitization to the harness indoors first, combined with plenty of rewards so the cat associates the harness with positive experiences. Not every Somali will enjoy walking outside, but for those who do, it can be a wonderful enrichment tool.

Without adequate exercise and stimulation, a Somali may become restless or creative in less desirable ways. They might:

• Knock things off shelves for entertainment
• Try to escape through doors or open windows
• Pester other pets or people for attention

Planning for daily play sessions and having a good selection of toys can prevent these behaviors. Rotating toys so that some are “new” each week keeps them interesting. Food puzzles and slow feeders support natural hunting instincts by making mealtimes more engaging, not just a quick snack.

In many ways, training and exercise are not optional extras for the Somali breed. They are part of the basic care these cats need to stay emotionally stable and physically healthy. If you are willing to invest a little time each day in playing and teaching, your Somali will often repay you by becoming an incredibly responsive, entertaining, and well behaved companion.

Health

Somali cats are generally healthy, robust animals with a typical lifespan of around 12 to 16 years, and some live even longer with good care. Like any purebred cat, they have certain health conditions that occur more frequently within the breed, so responsible breeding and thoughtful day to day care are very important.

One of the better known inherited conditions in Somalis is pyruvate kinase deficiency, often abbreviated as PK deficiency or PKDef. This is a hereditary disorder that affects red blood cells and can lead to anemia. Modern DNA tests can identify whether a cat is clear, a carrier, or affected. Ethical breeders screen their breeding cats and avoid mating two carriers, which greatly reduces the risk of affected kittens. As a pet owner, you can ask your breeder whether the parents were tested or whether your kitten has been cleared by parentage.

Another concern in some Somali lines is progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA. This is a group of conditions that can cause gradual vision loss over time. There are genetic tests for certain forms of PRA, and careful breeders work to avoid producing affected kittens. In practice, a healthy Somali with clear eyes and regular veterinary checkups is unlikely to suffer severe problems, but early detection and genetic awareness are valuable.

Patellar luxation, where the kneecap can slip out of place, occurs in a variety of cat breeds, including some Somalis. Mild cases may cause little discomfort and only be found during a routine vet examination. More serious cases can affect mobility and might require medical management or surgical correction. Keeping your Somali at a healthy weight and encouraging regular, balanced exercise can help protect joint health.

Dental health is also important. Some Somalis may be prone to tartar buildup or gum inflammation if dental hygiene is neglected. Regular tooth brushing with cat safe toothpaste, along with veterinary dental checks, helps prevent painful issues such as periodontal disease. Providing appropriate dental toys or treats recommended by your vet can support better oral health, although they are not a substitute for brushing.

Like many cats, Somalis can develop kidney or heart conditions later in life. While these are not exclusively Somali problems, being alert to any changes in thirst, urination, energy levels, breathing, or appetite is wise. Routine veterinary checks at least once a year, and twice yearly for older cats, allow early detection of many age related conditions. Modern veterinary medicine can often manage chronic issues quite successfully when caught early.

Responsible Somali breeders generally follow a health testing program that can include:

• DNA testing for PK deficiency and available PRA mutations
• Regular veterinary examinations with attention to heart and joints
• Monitoring for any recurring issues within their lines

When choosing a kitten, it is worth asking what health tests have been done and what the breeder does to support long term wellbeing. For adult rescue Somalis or Somali mixes, requesting a thorough veterinary examination before or soon after adoption is a good idea.

As an owner, you can support your Somali’s health by:

• Feeding a high quality, nutritionally complete diet suitable for their life stage
• Keeping them at a lean, athletic body condition
• Ensuring fresh water is always available
• Providing regular exercise and mental stimulation
• Maintaining an appropriate vaccination and parasite control schedule as advised by your vet

By combining good breeding practices with thoughtful daily care, most Somali cats enjoy an active and healthy life. Staying informed about potential health concerns simply helps you notice small changes early and work with your veterinarian to keep your lively fox cat thriving for many years.

History & Origins

The Somali’s history is closely tied to that of the Abyssinian. For a long time, these semi‑longhaired cats were considered something of an unexpected variation. In the early days of Abyssinian breeding, kittens occasionally appeared with longer coats. At first, these kittens were often placed as pets without much attention, since the breeding focus was on developing a shorthaired cat.

Over time, however, some breeders began to notice that these longhaired Abyssinians were not simply curiosities. They had a unique beauty of their own, with the same elegant body shape and ticked coat pattern, but with a luxurious, flowing tail and soft feathering around the neck and legs. Their personality was equally appealing, sharing the intelligence and liveliness of the Abyssinian while offering a slightly softer, more “plumed” appearance.

In the mid twentieth century, a small number of breeders in different countries started to deliberately work with these longhaired kittens. They kept careful records and bred selectively to fix the semi‑long coat while preserving the classic Abyssinian type and ticking pattern. Over time, these efforts produced a consistent look that could be recognized and described as a separate breed.

The name “Somali” was chosen as a nod to Somalia, a country that borders Ethiopia, once known as Abyssinia. Since the Abyssinian name was already taken, Somali offered a poetic way to emphasize the close relationship while distinguishing the longhaired variety. The name also seems fitting for a cat that looks like a small desert fox, agile and watchful.

Through the 1970s and 1980s, cat registries in different parts of the world began to accept the Somali as a distinct breed. Recognition did not happen overnight, and some traditionalists were cautious about splitting the Abyssinian family. However, the Somali’s charm and clear identity gradually won support. Today, major cat associations recognize the Somali, and breeding programs have become well established in North America, Europe, and beyond.

Modern Somali cats are no longer “accidents” from Abyssinian litters. They are deliberately bred with careful attention to coat quality, ticking, health, and temperament. While the breed’s working history is simply that of a companion and show cat, its roots in the Abyssinian give it a sense of continuity with one of the oldest recognized breed types.

In the present day, Somalis are valued for their lively companionship, striking appearance, and willingness to engage deeply with their human families. At cat shows, they often attract attention with their foxlike tails and lively expressions. At home, they serve a far more important role as interactive family members who turn everyday life into a series of small adventures. Their history reflects a journey from overlooked variety to a beloved breed that stands proudly on its own.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a Somali is a commitment to an active, interactive lifestyle. These cats are not background ornaments. They expect to be involved in what you are doing, whether that is relaxing on the sofa, working at your desk, or tidying a cupboard. If you enjoy this level of involvement and are willing to structure your home around a lively companion, living with a Somali can be deeply rewarding.

Daily life with a Somali includes:

• Regular play sessions to burn energy and satisfy hunting instincts
• Opportunities for climbing and exploration, such as cat trees and window views
• Social time where you talk, pet, or simply sit with your cat nearby

Somalis do not cope well with long periods of isolation. If you work full time away from home and there is no one else in the household, consider whether a second compatible cat might be a good idea. Two well matched cats can keep each other company and reduce boredom. However, the Somali’s need for human interaction remains, so they still need your time and attention when you are at home.

In terms of grooming, a Somali is relatively easy compared with some longhaired breeds, but their coat is not completely maintenance free. Plan for at least one or two grooming sessions per week. Many Somalis enjoy the feeling of a gentle comb if you start slowly and reward them. Regular grooming also gives you a chance to check for any skin issues, lumps, or parasites and to strengthen your bond through calm, positive handling.

Financially, owning a Somali involves costs similar to other purebred cats, plus a little extra for enrichment. Initial costs include adoption or purchase, vaccinations, microchipping, neutering or spaying, and basic equipment. Ongoing annual expenses typically include:

• Quality food appropriate for age and health, which may be higher in cost than basic supermarket brands
• Routine vet care, including health checks, vaccinations, and parasite prevention
• Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund for unexpected medical needs
• Replacement of toys, scratching posts, and bedding as they wear out

Many owners also invest in sturdy climbing trees, cat shelves, puzzle feeders, and robust wand toys. These items directly affect your Somali’s quality of life, so it is wise to include them in your long term budget.

Useful equipment for a Somali includes:

• A tall, stable cat tree with several platforms and hiding spots
• Multiple scratching posts, both vertical and horizontal, covered in sisal or sturdy fabric
• A variety of toys, such as feather wands, balls, tunnels, puzzle feeders, and interactive toys
• A comfortable bed or blanket in a quiet spot for naps, along with a window perch for watching outside
• A secure carrier for vet visits and possible travel
• Nail clippers and a gentle comb or brush appropriate for semi‑long coats

Somalis are usually clean and easy to litter train. Placing the litter box in a quiet, accessible location and keeping it scrupulously clean encourages good habits. Some may appreciate a covered box for privacy, while others prefer an open tray. Observing your cat’s preferences and making small adjustments can prevent litter box problems.

Perhaps the most important part of living with a Somali is emotional commitment. These cats thrive in homes where they are spoken to, played with, and gently guided. Setting clear but kind boundaries from the beginning helps them learn what is allowed. For example, if you do not want your cat on kitchen counters, redirect them to a nearby stool or tree every time they jump up and reward them for using the allowed perch.

In return for your time, structure, and affection, a Somali offers a deep companionship that many owners compare to living with a very small, furry friend who never stops being interested in life. They often develop rituals with their humans, such as greeting you at the door, joining you for bedtime reading, or sharing morning coffee time on the sofa.

If you are looking for a quiet, independent cat that will only occasionally ask for attention, a Somali may not be the ideal match. If, however, you want a clever, engaging companion who will be part of your daily activities, a Somali can be a wonderful addition to your home and family, turning ordinary days into lively, shared experiences.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Somali cat and how is it related to the Abyssinian?

This breed is essentially the semi‑longhaired version of the Abyssinian, with the same ticked coat pattern and lithe, athletic body. It developed when longhaired kittens occasionally appeared in Abyssinian lines and were later recognized as a separate breed.

What is the typical temperament of a Somali cat?

They are highly active, intelligent and people focused, often described as curious and playful well into adulthood. Many enjoy interactive games, learning tricks and being involved in whatever their humans are doing, rather than quietly sitting on laps for long periods.

How much grooming does a Somali cat need with its semi‑long coat?

Their fine, soft coat usually mats less than many longhaired breeds but still needs regular attention. Most do well with brushing two or three times a week to prevent tangles, reduce shedding and keep the tail plume and britches looking tidy.

Are Somali cats good indoor pets or do they need outdoor access?

They adapt very well to indoor life as long as their need for activity and mental stimulation is met. Safe climbing spaces, puzzle feeders, interactive play and window views are more important than outdoor access, which can expose them to unnecessary risks.

Do Somali cats get along with children and other pets?

Their playful, outgoing nature usually makes them good companions for respectful children and similarly energetic pets. They often enjoy having another active cat or cat‑friendly dog in the home, provided introductions are done gradually.

What specific health problems are Somali cats prone to?

They share some risks with Abyssinians, including hereditary kidney problems, pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency and progressive retinal atrophy in some lines. Responsible breeders screen for these issues, so it is important to ask about genetic testing and family health history.

How active are Somali cats and what kind of exercise do they need?

They are an energetic, athletic breed that benefits from daily interactive play and plenty of vertical space. Climbing trees, shelves, wand toys and fetch‑style games help channel their energy and prevent boredom‑related behaviors such as pestering or getting into off‑limits areas.

Are Somali cats very vocal compared to other breeds?

They are generally moderately talkative, often using soft chirps and trills rather than loud, persistent meowing. Most communicate with their people but are not usually as vocal as some oriental breeds.

How big do Somali cats get and what is their typical body type?

They are medium sized with a muscular yet graceful build and long, fine‑boned legs. Adults commonly weigh in the middle range for domestic cats but appear lighter and more athletic due to their lithe frame and flowing coat.

Is a Somali cat a good choice for first‑time cat owners?

They can suit a first‑time owner who wants a very interactive, playful companion and is prepared to provide daily engagement and regular grooming. Someone seeking a low‑energy, independent cat that needs minimal attention may find this breed more demanding than expected.

Sources

• The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) - UK
• Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) - France
• Somali Cat Club - UK
• The International Cat Association (TICA) - Germany
• British Veterinary Association (BVA) - UK