Somali Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

Somali cats are a unique breed of domestic cat known for their strikingly beautiful and fluffy coats. They are a long-haired variant of the Abyssinian breed, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The modern Somali cat as we know it today was first developed in the 1920s by British breeders who crossed Abyssinians and long-haired cats. 

These cats are known for their playful, loyal and intelligent personalities, making them an ideal pet for families and individuals alike. In this breed profile, we will discuss the various characteristics and care tips for Somali cats.

Breed Profile

The Somali cat breed is a descendant of the Abyssinian cat breed, which originated in Ethiopia. The breed was brought to Europe in the 16th century, where it quickly became popular among cat enthusiasts.

The Somali cat breed was developed in the 1960s by Australian breeder Evelyn Mague. Mague was attempting to breed an Abyssinian with a longer coat and eventually succeeded in producing the first Somali cat. The breed was officially recognised by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1979.

Since then, the Somali cat breed has become popular among cat enthusiasts worldwide. The breed is known for its playful and active personality, as well as its distinctive ticked coat. Somali cats are also known for their intelligence and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families.

Physical Characteristics

The Somali cat is a beautiful, medium-sized cat with a muscular body that is both agile and graceful. This breed is known for its distinctive appearance, which includes a long, bushy tail, small ears, and a ticked coat.

• Coat and Colours

The Somali cat has a medium-long, thick, and soft coat that is easy to maintain. The coat is ticked, which means that each hair has multiple bands of colour. The ticked coat comes in a range of colours, including ruddy, red, blue, and fawn. According to The Spruce Pets, the most common Somali cat colour is ruddy, which is a warm, reddish-brown shade.

• Body Structure

The Somali cat has a slender and strong body with long legs and a long, tapering tail. The head is wedge-shaped, with large, almond-shaped eyes that are usually green or gold. The small ears are alert and set wide apart. The average weight of a Somali cat is between 7 and 12 pounds.

• Distinctive Features

One of the most distinctive features of the Somali cat is its beautiful, bushy tail. The tail is thick and tapers to a point, giving it a fox-like appearance. Another distinctive feature of the Somali cat is its ticked coat, which gives it a unique and exotic look.

Temperament and Personality

When it comes to temperament and personality, the Somali cat is known for being an active, playful, and curious breed. They love to explore their surroundings and are often found playing with toys or chasing after objects. Somali cats are also known for being affectionate towards their owners, and they love to be cuddled and petted.

• Behavioural Traits

Somali cats are intelligent and have a mischievous streak, which can sometimes get them into trouble. They are known for being vocal and will often make their presence known through meowing or chirping. Somali cats are also very loving and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are known for being lap cats and will often curl up next to you for a nap.

• Social Interactions

Somali cats are social creatures and enjoy being around other cats and humans. They are known for being friendly and outgoing and will often greet visitors with a friendly meow. Somali cats are also very vocal and will often communicate with their owners through meowing or chirping. They are known for being affectionate and will often seek out attention from their owners.

Health and Lifespan

As with any cat, regular veterinary care is a must to ensure the Somali cat’s health. The Somali cat breed is relatively healthy and has a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. However, like all breeds, they can experience health problems.

• Common Health Issues

Somali cats can experience typical health problems that felines face, such as arthritis, heart disease, kidney issues, and periodontal disease, especially as they age. It is essential to take your Somali cat to the vet for regular check-ups to catch any health issues early on.

• Genetic Conditions

The Somali cat breed can also be prone to genetic conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, pyruvate kinase deficiency, and renal amyloidosis. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a genetic condition that affects the retina, causing vision loss. 

Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD) is a condition that affects the red blood cells, leading to anaemia and other complications. Renal amyloidosis is a condition that affects the kidneys, causing protein build-up and damage.

If you’re considering adopting a Somali cat, it’s important to be aware of these potential health issues. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper grooming are essential to maintain their vibrant vitality and manage potential conditions.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of a Somali cat requires a certain level of commitment, but it can be a very rewarding experience. Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to caring for your Somali cat.

• Grooming Needs

To maintain their medium-length fur coat healthy and glossy, Somali cats need frequent maintenance. To avoid matting and tangling, brush your cat’s coat at least once a week. To get rid of any loose hair and debris, use a comb or a slicker brush. Due to their considerable shedding, you should be ready to do frequent cleanups after Somali cats. 

• Diet and Nutrition

A healthy diet is essential for your Somali cat’s overall health and well-being. Make sure to provide your cat with high-quality cat food that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps or human food, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. It is also important to provide your cat with fresh water at all times.

Additional Care Considerations

Taking care of a Somali cat requires more than just providing food and water. Here are some additional care considerations that you should keep in mind to ensure your cat’s health and well-being.

• Nail and Dental Care

Regular dental care and nail clipping are critical to the health of your Somali cat. Every two to three weeks, you should clip your cat’s nails to avoid them getting too long and hurting or irritating them. The quick, or the pink portion of the nail includes blood vessels and nerves, and should not be cut while using cat nail clippers. 

Dental care is also important for your cat’s overall health. Periodontal disease is a common problem in cats, and it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. You can help prevent plaque buildup and periodontal disease by brushing your cat’s teeth regularly with a cat toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also provide your cat with dental treats and toys that help clean their teeth.

• Exercise and Play

Somali cats are active and playful, so it is important to provide them with plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. You can engage your cat in play by providing them with toys such as balls, feathers, and catnip toys. Playing fetch, climbing, and jumping are all great ways to keep your cat active and healthy.

Regular exercise and playtime can also help prevent behavioural problems such as aggression and destructive behaviour. Make sure to provide your cat with plenty of space to run and play, and set aside time each day for playtime and exercise.

Living with a Somali Cat

If you are considering adopting a Somali cat, it is important to understand how to properly care for and interact with them. Here are some tips to help you create a happy and healthy home environment for your Somali cat.

• Environmental Adaptation

Somali cats are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations. They are comfortable in both small apartments and large homes, as long as they have enough space to move around and play. Somali cats are also able to adapt to different climates, so they can live comfortably in both hot and cold environments.

To ensure that your Somali cat is happy and comfortable in their home environment, make sure to provide them with plenty of toys and scratching posts. They love to play and climb, so having a tall cat tree or other climbing structure can help keep them entertained and active.

• Compatibility with Others

Somali cats are generally social and friendly, making them a great addition to families with children or other pets. They enjoy attention and affection from their owners, and they are often happy to interact with other animals in the household.

However, it is important to introduce your Somali cat to other pets slowly and carefully. Make sure to supervise their interactions and provide plenty of positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour. If you have other cats in the household, it may take some time for them to adjust to the new addition, so be patient and give them time to get to know each other.

Breeding and Adoption

If you’ve decided to bring a Somali cat into your home, you have two options: adopting or buying from a breeder. Both options have their pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.

• Choosing a Breeder

If you choose to buy from a breeder, it’s important to find a reputable one. Look for a breeder who is registered with a cat breeding association, such as The International Cat Association (TICA) or the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). A good breeder will be happy to answer all your questions and provide you with information about the breed’s health, temperament, and history.

Examine the conditions under which the cats are housed when you visit a breeder. A trustworthy breeder will provide their cats with lots of socialisation and stimulation in well-kept, roomy surroundings. They should also be open to giving you a health certificate and allowing you to see the kitten’s parents. 

Training and Behavioural Guidance

Somali cats are intelligent and easy to train. Positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training and treats can be used to teach them basic commands and tricks. It is important to start training at a young age to ensure that they develop good habits.

When training your Somali cat, make sure to keep the sessions short and engaging. Use toys and playfulness to keep them entertained and motivated. Consistency is key, so make sure to train them regularly and reinforce good behaviour.

• Behavioural Management

Somali cats are known for their entertaining and playful behaviour. However, if they are not properly stimulated, they can become bored and develop destructive habits such as scratching furniture or chewing on cords.

To prevent this, provide them with plenty of toys and playtime. Scratching posts and climbing structures can also help satisfy their instincts. It is important to supervise them during playtime to ensure their safety.

Additionally, if your Somali cat is showing signs of aggression or other behavioural issues, it’s important to seek guidance from a professional animal behaviourist. They can help identify the root cause of the problem and provide you with strategies to manage and improve your cat’s behaviour.

Conclusion

Somali cats are beautiful and intelligent creatures that make wonderful companions. Providing them with a happy and stimulating home environment, proper training and care, you can ensure that your Somali cat will live a long and fulfilling life by your side. Remember to always do your research and seek guidance when needed to create the best possible life for your beloved feline friend. If you’re considering adding a Somali cat to your family, go ahead and take the leap, you won’t regret it!