Cat Breed · United States
Somali
A longhaired Abyssinian with a ticked coat and fox-like brush tail.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Somali is the longhaired counterpart of the Abyssinian, sharing its ticked, warm-toned coat and lively, inquisitive nature. Active, playful and highly intelligent, it is an agile climber and busy explorer that thrives on interaction and stimulation rather than long quiet hours alone.
Somali: At a Glance
| Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (3–5 kg) |
| Weight | 3-5 kg (6.5-11 lb), with males generally larger than females |
| Lifespan | 13–17 years |
| Coat | Medium-length, fine and soft with a striking ticked (agouti) pattern in which each hair carries several bands of colour, plus a full ruff and a bushy, fox-like tail. The semi-long coat lacks a heavy undercoat, so it resists matting and needs only weekly combing, increasing during seasonal moults. Bathing is rarely required. |
| Temperament | Active, curious, playful |
| Good with | Best for active households that can offer plenty of play, climbing and mental challenge; it suits families, sociable children and other lively pets. It does well with both first-time and experienced owners who understand its need for stimulation. Adaptable to flats if given vertical space and enrichment, but it is not a placid lap cat and can grow bored without company. |
History & Origins
The Somali descends directly from the Abyssinian, emerging from longhaired kittens that appeared in Abyssinian litters, a trait carried as a recessive gene from earlier outcrossing. For decades such kittens were quietly removed, until breeders in the United States and Canada, notably Evelyn Mague in the late 1960s and 70s, championed them as a breed in their own right. Mague chose the name Somali as a nod to Somalia, neighbour of Abyssinia (Ethiopia), reflecting the cat's close kinship with the Abyssinian. It achieved championship status with US registries in the late 1970s.
Somali Fun Facts
- Its bushy tail and ruff have earned it the nickname 'fox cat'.
- Each individual hair is banded with up to ten or more colours, the ticking that gives the coat its glowing, shimmering depth.
- The breed name honours Somalia, chosen because it borders Abyssinia (Ethiopia), reflecting its parent breed the Abyssinian.
- Many Somalis are notably dextrous with their paws and enjoy manipulating toys, taps and small objects.
Somali Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Progressive retinal atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Renal amyloidosis
Renal amyloidosis can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Dental disease
Plaque and tartar build-up leads to gum infection and tooth loss.
Care: Brush teeth regularly and schedule professional dental cleanings as your vet advises.
Every cat deserves a chance
Whatever breed you love, countless cats live without a home or care. A symbolic adoption or a gift to WARN funds community-cat welfare — neutering, vaccination and treatment for cats most people never see.
