Somali: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Somali does not come from Somalia despite its name. This breed was born in North America from the Abyssinian, of which it represents the semi-long-haired variety. When longer-haired kittens appeared in certain Abyssinian litters, they were first set aside before breeders decided to fix this trait and make it a breed in its own right. The recognition of the Somali was built in the 1960s in Canada and the United States, with breeders such as Mary Mailling then Evelyne Mague, who helped to stabilize the breed and give it its name in reference to Somalia, neighboring Ethiopia, the cradle of the Abyssinian.

The Somali is a medium-sized cat, supple, muscular and very harmonious. Its body strongly recalls that of the Abyssinian, with an elegant silhouette, a rounded chest and slender but athletic limbs. Its head is slightly triangular with softened contours, its ears are large and open towards the front, and its almond-shaped eyes are very expressive, in shades ranging from gold to green or hazel. Its semi-long coat is fine, silky and ticked, with a fuller ruff, a marked breeches and a very characteristic plume tail.

The Somali is an expressive, curious cat and very close to humans. He readily seeks the company of his family and enjoys regular interactions. Very playful, mischievous and intelligent, he likes to understand his environment and take part in household life. He retains a certain independence, but does not tolerate prolonged solitude well and asks for attention on a daily basis.

On a daily basis, the Somali moves around a lot, climbs, explores and easily turns its environment into a playground. It likes to have space, height and varied stimulation, such as a cat tree, climbing routes and interactive toys. Even if it also likes to come and seek petting and rest near its loved ones, it is not a placid cat. It generally tolerates children, visitors and other animals well when introductions are properly handled.

The education of the Somali must be gentle, consistent and stimulating. This cat learns quickly when it is offered clear routines, positive reinforcement and activities that engage its intelligence. It is useful to offer it stable reference points early on, authorized areas for climbing, a well-placed scratching post and daily games in order to channel its energy without frustration. A Somali that is not very stimulated can quickly develop boredom behaviors.

The price of a Somali varies depending on rarity, type, health tests and socialization. Maintenance (food, litter, veterinarian) represents a regular budget.

The Somali is an overall robust cat, but certain hereditary sensitivities and a few points of vigilance justify careful monitoring. Its health depends greatly on the quality of breeding, weight control, oral hygiene, and an environment that respects its need for activity.

The Somali needs a complete diet, rich in quality animal proteins and adapted to its activity level. Its active metabolism must not make one forget its tendency to eat with enthusiasm, which requires finding a good balance between energy intake, satiety and maintaining a slim and muscular silhouette.

The Somali is often described as a semi-longhaired version of the Abyssinian, but it is indeed a fully recognized breed in its own right. Its ticked coat, its plume-like tail and its lively expression give it the look of a little fox that appeals to many enthusiasts. The breed’s name can be confusing, as it does not refer to its actual place of creation but to a symbolic choice linked to the origins of the Abyssinian.