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.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Natural / Longhair
- Origin
- North America (developed from long-haired 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
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Somali
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Needs several active play sessions daily and enjoys climbing to high vantage points; puzzle feeders help occupy an active mind. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Progressive retinal atrophy, Pyruvate kinase deficiency, Renal amyloidosis, Gingivitis, Patellar luxation), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice