Cat breed · Natural / Longhair
Somali
Essentially a long-haired Abyssinian, the Somali combines a fox-like plumed tail with the same restless curiosity and athleticism as its shorthaired relative.
Medium12–16 yearsSomalia (developed from Abyssinian lines)Can suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Natural / Longhair
- Origin
- Somalia (developed from Abyssinian lines)
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3.5–5.5 kg (8–12 lb)
- Height
- 20–25 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–16 years
- Coat
- Medium-length, soft, ticked coat
- Temperament
- PlayfulCuriousActiveAffectionate
History
Arose from a recessive long-hair gene in Abyssinian litters; breeders in North America developed it as a distinct breed from the 1960s onward.
Appearance
A lithe, medium-sized cat with a bushy tail, tufted ears and a warm reddish or ruddy ticked coat.
Exercise and activity
Needs several active play sessions daily and enjoys climbing to high vantage points; puzzle feeders help occupy an active mind.
Care and grooming
Brush weekly to prevent tangles, especially around the britches and tail; the coat is less prone to matting than many longhairs.
Health considerations
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
- Renal amyloidosis
- Gingivitis
- Patellar luxation