The Somali cat is a breathtaking medium-sized semi-longhaired breed with a distinctive ticked coat that gives them a wild, fox-like appearance. These athletic and elegant cats strike an impressive balance between beauty and personality, making them increasingly popular companions in the UK and worldwide. With their alert expressions, large almond-shaped eyes, and bushy tails, Somalis command attention wherever they go.
The Somali’s history begins, rather fittingly, with their cousin breed – the Abyssinian. During the reign of Queen Victoria, ticked cats were brought to Britain from colonial territories, with the first known Abyssinian being a cat named Zula, brought to the UK in 1868 by Mrs Barrett-Lennard, the wife of an army captain.
The Somali itself emerged through a genetic twist of fate. In the 1940s, British breeder Janet Robertson exported several Abyssinian kittens to Australia, New Zealand, and North America. Descendants of these cats occasionally produced kittens with longer or fuzzier coats – the result of a recessive longhair gene.
What started as an unexpected “flaw” in Abyssinian breeding programmes would eventually be celebrated as a beautiful breed in its own right. Isn’t it funny how the most wonderful things often happen by accident?
Origin: Descended from the Abyssinian breed.
Genetic Mutation: Long hair came from a recessive gene.
Breeder: Evelyn Mague developed the breed in the 1960s.
The first documented long-haired Abyssinian, named ‘Raby Chuffa of Selene‘, appeared in North America in 1953. Initially, many Abyssinian breeders were dismayed by these unexpected longhaired kittens and worked to eliminate the trait from their breeding lines.
However, American Abyssinian breeder Evelyn Mague saw potential in these longhaired variants and officially began developing them as a separate breed in the early 1960s. She named them “Somalis” as a nod to Somalia’s geographical relationship with Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia).
Early breeders didn’t like the long hair
Evelyn Mague liked the long hair and began to breed the cat
The breed gained official recognition from the Cat Fanciers’ Association in North America in 1979, followed by European acceptance in 1982. Somalis were first imported into Britain in 1980 when a consortium of Abyssinian breeders brought over Foxtail’s Belle Starr and Champion Nephrani’s Omar Khayyam.
The Somali Cat Club of Great Britain formed in 1981, and by 1991, Usual and Sorrel Somalis achieved full championship status.
Recognised by Cat Fanciers Association in 1979
Recognised in Europe in 1982
Somali Cat Club of Great Britain formed in 1981
There may be evidence of Somali-like cats dating much further back – an illustration in “The Cat in Ancient Egypt” by Jaromir Malek shows a cat from a papyrus dating around 900 BC that bears a striking resemblance to today’s Somali.
These cats might just be older than we think – perhaps an ancient lineage reappearing in our modern world through that fortunate genetic quirk….
Somali cats are the life and soul of the party – they possess temperaments as striking as their appearance. Highly intelligent and incredibly interactive, Somalis love to engage with their environment with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Unlike some breeds that prefer to observe their humans from distance, Somalis want to be right in the middle of household activities. They’re proper busy-bodies.
They’re known for their exceptional loyalty and affection towards their owners, forming deep bonds that make them wonderful family pets. These social butterflies thrive on interaction and can become quite attached to their people.
One Somali owner told us, “Having a Somali is like having a cat-shaped shadow – they follow you everywhere, even to the loo if you let them!“
Don’t Like Being Alone
Love Interaction
Make Great Family Pets
Somalis are always on the move – you’ll rarely find one lounging about when there’s exploring to be done! They combine playfulness with athleticism. They’re impresive jumpers and love to climb.
Their inquisitive nature drives them to investigate every nook and cranny of their domain – no cupboard or shelf is safe from their explorations. If you value items displayed on shelves, you might want to reconsider your decorating choices with a Somali about!
Active: Require regular play and exercise
Athletic: Excellent jumpers and climbers
Intelligent: Need mental stimulation and puzzles
Curious: Will explore everything within reach
Playful: Maintain kitten-like behaviour into adulthood
What makes the Somali particularly endearing is their expressive communication style. They’re not typically vocal cats, but they convey their desires and opinions through body language, facial expressions, and occasionally gentle chirps or trills.
Many owners describe their Somalis as having almost dog-like tendencies in how they follow their humans and engage with activities. They’ll often “chat” to you with soft trills rather than meows – a charming trait that makes conversations with your cat feel surprisingly genuine.
Expressive Communication
Not typically vocal
Use body language and facial expressions
The Somali’s playful nature persists throughout their lives – these cats never truly grow up in spirit, maintaining their kittenish enthusiasm well into their senior years. This youthful energy makes them entertaining pets, though it also means they require substantial mental and physical stimulation to remain happy and balanced.
As one breeder put it, “A bored Somali is a mischievous Somali. Keep them entertained or they’ll find ways to entertain themselves usually at your expense!“
Forever Young and Playful
Need constant stimulation to be happy
Boredom can lead to bad behaviour
The Somali cat is medium-sized, with a muscular body. These cats are what what breeders call “foreign type” – a build that’s athletic and lithe without being extreme in any dimension.
Males typically appear somewhat larger and more robust than females, who tend to have finer bone structure and often higher activity levels.
The most distinctive feature of the Somali is undoubtedly its magnificent semi-longhaired coat. Unlike the Persian‘s dense, mat-prone fur, their coat lies relatively flat against the body while featuring a luxurious ruff around the neck and a bushy fox-like tail that’s earned them the nickname “fox cats“.
The coat’s texture is soft and fine, with a silky feel that invites petting. It’s a proper treat to stroke these cats – their fur feels like the finest cashmere.
What truly sets the Somali’s coat apart is its ticked pattern – each hair features bands of alternating light and dark colour, creating a shimmering effect that seems to change with movement and lighting. This agouti ticking gives the coat tremendous depth and dimension.
Semi-longhaired
Soft and fine texture
“Ticked” pattern on hairs
Bushy Fox-like tail
Somali cats come in a range of beautiful colours, each with that distinctive ticking that makes them so special:
Ruddy: Rich orange-brown with black ticking (the most traditional colour)
Sorrel/Cinnamon: Coppery-red with chocolate ticking
Blue: Warm beige with slate-blue ticking
Fawn: Light cream with pale cocoa ticking
Chocolate: Warm chocolate brown
Lilac: Pale dove grey with pinkish tone
Silver variations: Each colour can appear in silver variety
The Somali’s facial features are equally captivating. Large, almond-shaped eyes in shades of amber, green, or copper gleam. Their eyes truly are windows to their souls – expressive and constantly alert.
Their ears stand tall and alert, often adorned with tufts at the tips, while their faces display distinctive tabby markings including the characteristic “M” on the forehead. These markings give them a worried expression that belies their generally happy demeanour.
Almond shaped eyes in amber, green, or copper
Tabby markings on the forehead
Physically, Somalis are the picture of feline athleticism. Their moderate length legs support a body that’s neither cobby nor extremely elongated, creating perfect balance for their active lifestyle. They typically weigh between 6-10 pounds when fully mature, though some males may reach slightly larger sizes.
The overall impression of a Somali is one of natural beauty and balanced proportions – nothing appears exaggerated or out of place. Their appearance combines wild elegance with domestic charm, making them truly one of the most visually striking cat breeds available today.
As one judge at a cat show remarked, “The Somali looks like what people imagine cats should be – elegant, graceful, and just a bit wild.”
Moderate Length Legs
Balanced and Proportionate
Athletic build
While generally healthy, Somali cats can be prone to several heritable health conditions that owners should be aware of. Their average lifespan ranges from 11-16 years, though many well-cared-for Somalis live into their late teens.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency stands as perhaps the most significant health concern specific to the breed. This inherited condition affects red blood cells and can cause intermittent anemia. Signs include lethargy, poor appetite, and reduced exercise tolerance.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). This degenerative eye disease gradually leads to vision deterioration and potentially blindness. Early symptoms include night blindness before progressing to more comprehensive vision loss.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD): Anemia; genetic testing available.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Vision loss; genetic testing available.
Renal Amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal protein deposits damage kidney tissue, has been documented in Somali lines. This serious condition typically manifests in middle-aged or older cats and can lead to kidney failure.
Signs include: Increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, poor coat condition, reduced appetite
Beyond the breed-specific concerns, Somalis may occasionally develop dental issues. Their relatively small mouths can sometimes lead to overcrowding of teeth, making regular dental care important.
As with many purebred cats, obesity can become a problem if their high energy needs aren’t matched with appropriate exercise opportunities.
When considering a Somali kitten, it’s vital to select a reputable breeder who conducts all relevant health screenings. Ask for evidence of genetic testing for PK deficiency and PRA, and enquire about the health history of the kitten’s lineage.
A responsible breeder will:
Be transparent about health considerations
Provide documentation of genetic testing
Allow you to meet the kitten’s parents (at least the mother)
Offer ongoing support after purchase
Never sell kittens before 12-13 weeks of age
Somali cats make exceptional family pets thanks to their sociable, adaptable nature and enthusiasm for interactive play. These friendly cats typically form strong bonds with all family members, though they often develop a particularly close relationship with one specific person in the household.
With children, Somalis generally display remarkable patience and playfulness. Their high energy levels and love of games make them ideal playmates for older children who understand proper handling.
However, very young children should always be supervised during interactions, as Somalis’ active nature means they may dash away if hugged too tightly or restrained uncomfortably. They’re not aggressive cats, but they do value their dignity!
They thrive on companionship and can become lonely for extended periods.
Families where someone is home frequently provide the ideal environment.
They generally coexist peacefully with cat-friendly dogs, especially when introduced properly and gradually. Their playful nature can also include with dogs, it’s not uncommon to find a Somali and dog engaged in mutual play or snuggled together for naps.
Here’s the scoop:
Good with dogs
Requires proper introduction and supervision
Introduction is key:
Scent Swapping: Introduce pets via scent before visual contact.
Supervised Interactions: Keep initial meetings short and supervised.
Separate Spaces: Ensure each pet has its own safe space.
With other cats, Somalis usually integrate smoothly, particularly when introduced as kittens or to households with existing laid-back cats. Their non-confrontational nature means they rarely instigate territory disputes, though they certainly appreciate having their own spaces and resources like any cat.
Here’s what to keep in mind for multi-cat homes:
Smooth integration with proper introduction
Non-confrontational demeanour
Need for personal space and resources
Small pets such as birds, hamsters, or fish may trigger the Somali’s natural hunting instincts. While individual temperaments vary, it’s advisable to provide secure enclosures for smaller pets and never leave them unsupervised with any cat, regardless of breed. Even the friendliest cat has instincts!
Important note:
Supervise with small pets
Hunting instincts can be triggered
While some owners allow outdoor access, most breeders and experts recommend keeping Somalis primarily indoors for safety and longevity.
Recommended to be indoors
Protect from theft, and traffic
Somalis’ curiosity and athletic ability can lead to risky situations. Outdoor dangers include:
Traffic accidents
Predators (foxes, larger animals)
Diseases from other cats
Theft (due to their desirability)
Poisons and toxins
To keep an indoor Somali happy, enrichment is essential:
Cat Trees: Provide vertical space for climbing and perching.
Window Perches: Allow them to watch birds and the outside world.
Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders, feather wands, and laser pointers keep them entertained.
Catios: A secure outdoor enclosure offers fresh air without the risks.
Leash Training: Supervised outdoor walks on a leash are an option for some Somalis..
Rotating toys regularly prevents boredom, and providing scratching posts saves your furniture. Social interaction is also important, so make time for playtime and cuddles each day.
Somali cats require manageable grooming routines compared to other longhaired breeds. Their fur lacks the dense undercoat that makes Persian grooming so demanding, but still needs regular attention to maintain its stunning appearance.
Surprisingly manageable routines
Silky Fur
Frequency: Brush 2-3 times per week.
Tools: Use a stainless steel comb and a soft slicker brush.
Technique: Gently comb through the coat, paying attention to the ruff, tail, and behind the ears.
Regular brushing removes loose hair, prevents matting, and distributes natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat.
Frequency: Check ears weekly, clean as needed.
Tools: Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and cotton wool.
Technique: Gently wipe the visible portions of the ear canal, never inserting anything deep inside.
Frequency: Trim every 2-3 weeks.
Tools: Use cat nail clippers.
Technique: Trim just the sharp tip of the nail, avoiding the quick (the pink area with blood vessels).
Frequency: Brush teeth daily (or at least a few times a week).
Tools: Use cat-specific toothpaste and a finger brush or cat toothbrush.
Technique: Gently brush all surfaces of the teeth. Dental treats can supplement brushing.
Somalis rarely need baths unless they get into something messy. Use a cat-specific shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Start grooming early to get your Somali used to the process. Make it a positive experience with treats and praise. A well-groomed Somali is a happy and healthy Somali!
Providing optimal nutrition for a Somali cat requires understanding their specific dietary needs as active, muscular cats.
High-Quality Protein: Look for named meat sources (chicken, turkey, fish) as the first ingredients.
Moderate Fat Content: Supports coat health and provides energy.
Balanced Omega Fatty Acids: Essential for healthy skin and coat.
Taurine: An essential amino acid for heart and eye health.
Limited Carbohydrates: Cats are obligate carnivores and don’t need many carbs.
Meat based source
Balanced Fat Content
Taurine amino acid
Scheduled Meals: Feed 2-3 meals per day rather than free-feeding.
Portion Control: Adjust portions based on your cat’s weight, activity level, and metabolism.
Wet Food: High moisture content supports urinary tract health.
Dry Food: Helps maintain dental health.
A combination of wet and dry food is often the best approach.
Clean water is a MUST
Cat fountain can assist with drinking
Kittens: Need kitten-specific food with higher protein and fat.
Adults: Need balanced nutrition for maintenance.
Seniors: May need food formulated for senior cats with kidney support.
Limit treats to 10% of their daily calories. Choose healthy, protein-rich options.
Avoid Toxic Foods
Chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes can be Fatal
Here are some interesting and unusual facts about Somali cats:
The “Ticking” Cameo: While the ticked coat is a hallmark of the Somali, it wasn’t always considered desirable. In the early Abyssinian breeding programs, kittens with heavy barring or blotches (non-ticked patterns) were sometimes born and were often affectionately called “cameo Abyssinians.” This highlights that even the ticked pattern has variations and a hidden history.
Ticked Coat wasn’t always desirable
Early variations were known as “Cameo Abbysinians”
The Somali “Chat”: These cats aren’t big meowers. However, their chirps, trills, and “talking” sounds often mimic human speech patterns, leading some owners to swear they can understand their Somalis. One owner even claimed their Somali would make a distinct “brrrp” sound when the kettle was boiling!
Don’t meow, they chirp!
Can often mimic human speech
Cat Show Champions: While specific records are difficult to maintain, Somalis are known to excel in cat shows due to their striking appearance and charming personalities. Their well-balanced physique and unique coat pattern often catch the judges’ eyes. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognises Somalis, and they frequently win Best of Breed and regional awards.
Excel in Cat Shows
Balanced, Charming Personalities often catch the judges eye
Water-Loving Wonders: While many cats avoid water, Somalis often seem fascinated by it. Some will dip their paws in water bowls, play with dripping taps, or even hop into the shower with their owners. This unusual trait makes them more entertaining (and potentially wetter) than your average feline! One Somali was even filmed trying to “fish” for toys in the toilet (not recommended!).
Love Water, Unlike Other Cats!
Play with taps, and join you in the shower!
High Jumpers: Somalis are incredibly athletic and can jump surprisingly high. One owner reported their Somali could effortlessly leap onto the top of a 6-foot wardrobe! Their muscular build and agile nature make them Olympic-level jumpers in the cat world.
Amazing High Jumpers!
Olympic Level Jumpers!
The Somali Smile: The facial structure and markings of the Somali often give them a “smiling” expression, adding to their endearing nature. This is caused by the natural contours of their face and the placement of their tabby markings.
Always Smiling!
Due to unique structure and markings.
A Recent Breed: Compared to some ancient breeds, the Somali is relatively new. Officially developed in the 1960s, it’s a modern breed with a fast-growing fanbase.
New breed
developed in the 1960’s.
The Mystery of the Missing Somalis: In the early days of Somali breeding, some cats disappeared mysteriously, leading to speculation about theft due to their beauty and rarity. This adds a touch of intrigue to their early history.
Mysterious past due to disappearances
Due to beauty and rarity
Unique Vocalisations: Somalis are not known for incessant meowing. Instead, they possess a unique repertoire of chirps, trills, and soft murmurs that they use to communicate with their owners. This gentle communication style is a distinctive trait of the breed.
Don’t meow, instead Chirp
Unique communication style
“The Ballerina Cat”: Due to their graceful movements and love for perching in high places, some Somali owners jokingly refer to them as “ballerina cats.” Their elegant posture and acrobatic abilities make them seem like feline dancers.
Elegant posture and acrobatic movements
The “Ballerina Cat”
Somali cats generally enjoy lifespans ranging from 11-16 years.
No, Somali cats are not hypoallergenic. Despite their semi-longhaired coats, they produce the same allergenic proteins (primarily in saliva and skin secretions) as other cats. In fact, their medium-length fur may collect and distribute more allergens through the home than shorthaired breeds. If you're allergic but have your heart set on a Somali, regular grooming (ideally by a non-allergic household member) and HEPA air purifiers may help manage symptoms, but they won't eliminate the allergens completely.
Somalis require substantial daily exercise to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Plan for at least 20-30 minutes of interactive play daily, ideally split into multiple sessions.
Most Somalis adapt well to living with cat-friendly dogs, particularly when properly introduced.
Somali kittens from reputable breeders typically range from £600-£1,200, depending on pedigree, colour, and whether they're sold as show quality or pet quality. Be wary of significantly lower prices, as these may indicate questionable breeding practices or lack of appropriate health testing. A properly raised kitten from tested parents is worth the investment for the reduced risk of genetic health issues.
While Somalis can tolerate being alone for standard workdays, they thrive on companionship and can become lonely or bored during regular lengthy absences.
The most obvious comparison, as Somalis are essentially long-haired Abyssinians, sharing the same athletic build, ticked coat pattern, and energetic, intelligent temperament.
They’re basically cousins – one with short hair, one with longer fur – but with the same playful spirit and striking appearance. If you love the Somali personality but prefer a shorter coat, the Abyssinian might be your perfect match.
Similar in their elegant, medium-sized build and playful, active nature. Turkish Angoras also share the Somali’s intelligence and tendency to form strong bonds with owners, though their coat lacks the distinctive ticking pattern.
Both breeds maintain kitten-like playfulness throughout their lives and bring an energetic presence to any household. Turkish Angoras tend to be slightly more vocal than the typically quiet Somali.
While larger and more robust than Somalis, Maine Coons share their semi-longhaired coat, bushy tail, tufted ears, and sociable, playful temperament. Both breeds maintain kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood.
If you love the Somali’s personality but would prefer a larger cat with a slightly more laid-back energy level, the Maine Coon offers similar charm in a bigger package.
Features similar semi-longhaired coat texture and athletic ability. Norwegian Forest Cats share the Somali’s love of climbing and exploring high places, though they typically have a more reserved temperament.
Both breeds sport magnificent tails and adapt well to family life, though the “Wegie” tends to be a bit more independent and less actively engaged in following their humans around.
Comparable in their active nature, intelligence, and moderately long coat that requires similar grooming. Siberians also share the Somali’s strong bond with family members and adaptability to household routines.
These Russian forest cats bring the same mix of playfulness and affection to their families, though they tend to be somewhat larger and more powerfully built than the elegant Somali.
Though more vocally expressive, Balinese cats match the Somali’s intelligence, athleticism, and medium-longhaired coat. Both breeds require substantial mental stimulation and interactive play.
If you appreciate the Somali’s active nature but would enjoy a more talkative companion, the Balinese might tick your boxes while offering a similar elegant appearance.
While shorthaired, the Egyptian Mau shares the Somali’s ancient appearance, athletic build, and spotted pattern that creates a similar wild look. Both breeds are highly active and form strong owner bonds.
The Mau’s spotted coat creates a wild appearance that appeals to many of the same owners who are drawn to the Somali’s fox-like looks. They’re both athletic cats with a touch of the exotic.
Despite their smaller size, Singapuras display similar intelligence, playfulness, and ticked coat pattern (though shorthaired). Both breeds maintain kitten-like activity levels throughout adulthood.
The Singapura offers the Somali’s engaging personality and ticked coat in a much smaller package – perfect for those who want a petite version of the active, intelligent Somali character.
The Somali truly stands as one of the most magnificent domestic cat breeds – combining wild beauty with an engaging, affectionate temperament that makes them extraordinary companions. If you’re prepared to meet their needs for activity, engagement, and appropriate care, a Somali will reward you with devoted companionship and endless feline entertainment. These fantastic “foxy” felines might just be the purr-fect addition to your family!
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
Cat Mad
UK only. Free shipping on all international orders over £100.
30 days to ensure you’re happy or get your money back. Simple & easy returns.
Get inspiration, new arrivals and our latest offers straight to your inbox.
© We Are Cat Mad 2025 Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Cookie Policy
© We Are Cat Mad 2025
No account yet?
Create an Account
