Description: Somali
The Somali cat is an enchanting breed, often referred to as the 'long-haired Abyssinian'. With origins tracing back to the 1960s in the United States, the Somali boasts a striking fox-like appearance, with a full, bushy tail and a ruddy, ticked coat that shines in the light. These cats are characterized by their vivid green or gold eyes and large ears, which sit atop a wedge-shaped head. This athletic and agile breed is known for its playful and intelligent nature, often described as 'feline athletes' who love to jump, climb, and play. Moreover, they are affectionate and social creatures that thrive on interaction with humans and other pets, making them excellent companions for active households.
Properties
The Somali cat, often regarded as the long-haired version of the Abyssinian, displays a vibrant and lush fox-like tail, earning it the nickname 'fox cat'. This medium-sized cat is adorned with a soft, dense coat that usually comes in a rich, ruddy hue, though it can also appear in other colors like blue, fawn, and red. The characteristic that sets the Somali apart from other breeds is its distinctive fur pattern; the so-called 'ticking', which involves bands of color on each individual hair, giving them a uniquely speckled appearance.
The Somali is an emblem of grace and athleticism, possessing a muscular build that betrays its high levels of energy and playfulness. Its almond-shaped eyes, which can range in color from gold to green, are expressive and seem to radiate intelligence and curiosity. They have a slight almond shape, accentuated by dark lines, which gives them an almost makeup-like appearance, enhancing their natural beauty and providing a striking contrast to their soft, bushy coat.
As for temperament, Somalis are highly intelligent and interactive. They thrive on social interaction and are often seen engaging in playful antics even into old age. They bond well with families and are particularly known for their loyalty. Unlike some cat breeds that are more independent, Somalis crave interaction and will often follow their owners around the house, participate in daily activities, and seek out company. Their playful and adventurous nature means they thrive in an environment where they can explore and play.
Despite their playful nature, Somalis are also quite adaptable. They handle changes in their environment with ease, making them excellent companions for families or individuals who travel frequently or move regularly. However, due to their active and social temperament, they do not do well with long periods of solitude and may become bored or depressed if left alone too frequently without stimulation.
Caring for a Somali involves regular grooming, despite their fur not matting as easily as other long-haired breeds. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent the formation of hairballs. Their diet, like all cats, should be high-quality and suitable for their age, health, and level of activity. Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial to ensure they remain healthy and vibrant.
In conclusion, the Somali cat, with its distinct appearance and endearing personality, makes a delightful and engaging pet for those willing to indulge its need for interaction and activity. Their striking looks, combined with their intelligent, playful nature, make them a favored choice for many cat lovers around the world.
Appearance
The Somali cat, often considered the long-haired version of the Abyssinian, exhibits a graceful yet muscular build, alertness, and a vibrant coat that comes alive with rich colors. Its medium-sized body is lithe and agile, capable of quick and fluid movements that testify to its excellent physical condition. One of the most striking features of the Somali is its soft, fine, and dense fur that feels silky to the touch. It grows longer on the ruff and britches, forming a bushy tail that gives it a foxy appearance.
The coat is distinctly ticked, each hair having alternate light and dark bands of color, which adds to the depth and richness of the overall coat color. Typical coat colors include ruddy, red, blue, and fawn, each giving the Somali a unique look that is both wild and domestic. The intense expression of the Somali is enhanced by its large almond-shaped eyes, which come in shades of green, gold, or copper, complemented by a dark eyeliner that adds an exotic look.
The ears are large and pricked, set as though listening intently to the environment, with tufts at the tips adding an element of wild elegance. The head shape is a modified wedge with gentle contours and not extremely pointed or angular, showing a soft muzzled look that balances the face. The legs are slender and proportionate to the body, and the feet are small and oval shaped, often described as 'dancing' on their tip-toes.
The Somali is not just about looks; it's also known for its spirited personality and playful behavior, traits that match its charming appearance. Maintaining the lushness of their coat requires a bit more grooming than their short-haired Abyssinian relatives, typically involving a few times a week brushing to keep their fur smooth and free of tangles. Overall, the appearance of the Somali breed is a delightful blend of robust health, agile grace, and vibrant color, which makes it a favorite among cat enthusiasts who appreciate beauty and active companionship.
History
The Somali cat, with its fox-like tail and luscious ticked coat, possesses an intriguing history that contributes greatly to its allure. Although it shares a strong lineage with the Abyssinian, one of the oldest known cat breeds, the Somali is distinct in its semi-long fur and remarkable bushy tail, conferring upon it the nickname 'the fox cat.' Despite its ancestral roots that trace back to ancient Egypt, the breed as known today primarily developed dramatically during the 20th century.
The direct development of the Somali breed began more incidentally than intentionally. Abyssinians, first imported from Southeast Asia and parts of Africa such as Ethiopia — historically known as Abyssinia — gave birth to occasional long-haired kittens because of a recessive gene. Throughout the early to mid-1900s, these long-haired variants were largely overlooked or shunned by breeders who favored the traditional short-haired Abyssinians for shows and breeding programs. It was not until the 1960s and 1970s that these long-haired variants were seen as holding potential for a formal breed.
Breeder Lynn Lee from the United States took significant interest in these cats and named them 'Somalis,' after the neighboring country of Ethiopia, suggesting a shared heritage. Efforts were thereafter consolidated to define the breed standard which emphasized the unique characteristics such as the distinct ticking, the full brush tail, and the vibrant coat colors ranging from ruddy to fawn. By 1978, the Somali gained championship status from the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and continued to rise in popularity among cat enthusiasts for both its aesthetic appeal and its spirited, playful nature.
Unlike the more aloof Abyssinian, the Somali is known for its interactive and social behavior. It enjoys playing and engaging with humans, often described as highly intelligent and curious. Over the years, this breed has not only consolidated its place in the hearts of cat lovers but has also become a staple in dynamic households, bringing energy and joy with its elegant appearance and friendly disposition.