Somali Cats: Breed Information

The Somali cat breed is one of the most extroverted, friendly and "doglike" cats. It is very affectionate and social which makes a good choice for families or people that have company often.This is not a cat for the person who wants a quiet cat that purrs contentedly in their lap. The Somali is active, gregarious and needs to be busy. It is actually a long haired version of the Abyssinian cat which has evolved into a separate breed.

Somali Cat Personality

These cats are very outgoing and active. They love to join in a game of tag, hide and seek or fetch and may help you make beds, vacuum or carryout your other everyday activities.

The Somali does not do well alone and so, if there is no one home during the day you will need to get a companion for them. Another cat or a small dog will be enough to entertain them and allow them the social interaction they crave. A bored Somali cat is not a good thing. They are intelligent enough that they will definitely get into trouble.

Since the breed loves activity be sure that your pet has plenty of toys to play with. A cat tree to climb will ensure that they can be active without being hard on your fragile antiques or crystal collection. Please create a safe environment inside for your Somali rather than letting them run around unprotected outside.

The Somali cat breed first appeared in the 1950s when kittens in an Abyssinian breeding program were born with long fur. The luxurious fur was caused by a recessive gene and was not a desirable trait. In the 1963 a breeder decided to enter one of her long haired kittens in a cat show as a joke but, much to everyone's surprise, Judge Ken McGill immediately fell in love with the kitten and used it to begin a breeding program, founding the oldest Somali line in Canada.

About the same time in the United States Evelyn Mague, a long time Abyssinian breeder also fell in love with a long haired kitten. She founded the Somali breed, naming it after an area near Abyssinia.

What Does a Somali Cat Look Like?

The Somali is well proportioned with a muscular, lithe body. They have a foxlike appearance, with a full, bushy tail and ruff around the neck.

Their coats are about three inches in length and do not mat easily, making them easy to maintain. They do not shed regularly but lose a large amount of hair a few times a year. The cats often have a stripe down the back that is a little darker than the main color of their coat. The Somali will have white on the muzzle, chin or throat but white fur anywhere else will be cause for disqualification. They may be any combination of ruddy, red, blue or fawn. Although the coats are "ticked" with color Tabby markings are not desirable in Somalis.

The eyes have a dark rim, giving them an exotic, thoughtful look.

Although Somalis are a relatively healthy breed of cat they do have a few health problems.

Gingivitis can be problem with any cat. High quality dry food fed along with canned food will help to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

AIHA or Auto Immune Hemolyctic Anemia occurs when antibodies fight the cat's red blood cells causing them to burst. It can be easily diagnosed with a PCV blood test. You will need to request this test as it is not a normal part of a check-up.

Renal Amyloidisis or RA causes fibrinous build-up on the organics and eventually shuts them down. There is no known cure and it can't be diagnosed until after the death of the animal. It is somewhat rare but be sure to ask the breeder about the health in the kitten's pedigree.

A Great Family Pet

By choosing a Somali cat you will ensure that you have plenty of entertainment and affection. Since this breed is so good with children it is the perfect family pet. A Somali will welcome your friends to your home, play hide and seek with your children, help you make the beds and generally make herself part of the family.