Written by Rita of
Vivace
Cats
The
lovely Somali cat is a breed of many contrasts and paradoxes. From the
contrasting colours of the ticked fur to its wild appearance that
belies a supremely affectionate and people-loving cat, the Somali is a
unique package and an ideal companion for many homes.
The
Somali is most easily described as the longer-haired cousin to the
Abyssinian. The Somali originated from Abyssinian breeding programs
and Somalis share the Abyssinians lively intelligence and playful
nature. The breed is now recognised in its own right and can be found
in most parts of the world.
The
Somali is a lot of fun to live with. They would never be described as
couch potatoes – they are lively and energetic and the world is an
endless adventure for them. They adapt well to life in single
households or families alike – they form intense relationships with
their people and delight in attention. Many Somalis are fascinated
with water and love to play with a dripping tap, or drink from it.
They are most helpful with housework – this may mean making a bed
may takes a little longer with a Somali leaping under and over the
sheets! But housework was never so much fun. Of course there are also
the tender moments on their human’s lap, showing their love with the
same passion that they give to anything else. Although they are an
active breed, they are very well-suited to indoor life – in fact
this is recommended as their busy and curious nature does not make for
good road sense, and like all cats they are prone to the many other
dangers of outdoor life. They are easily trained to walk on a harness
and lead and this is a safe way for a Somali to get fresh air. They
love to play indoor games such as “fetch” and chasey. As they are
such sociable cats they may be unhappy if left alone for long periods,
and would benefit from another companion animal in the household. They
get on well with other animals – other cats as well as dogs.
Despite
the luxurious look of the coat, it is surprisingly easy to care for.
The texture is silky and resistant to matting, so a weekly comb
through is all that is needed. Many will “groom” their owner’s
hair in return! The coat takes around 2 years to develop completely,
and often features a prominent ruff, and “breeches “. The tail on
a Somali is a real feature – it is big, bushy and resembles a fox
brush.
In
Australia, the Somali is most commonly available in the wild-looking
colours of tawny (called ruddy in USA), cinnamon (also called sorrel),
blue and fawn. These colours are also available in a glamorous silver
version, where the undercoat is replaced with a sparkling white,
leaving only the ticking colour. These colours are called Black
Silver, Cinnamon silver, blue silver and fawn silver. In some states
chocolate and lilac Somalis are available. The ticking of the coat
gives that “wildcat” look. On each hair there are alternating
bands of contrasting colour, so the effect is a unique combination of
colours, shared only with Abyssinians in the feline world. A
delightful feature of the Somali expression is the “smile” – the
lips turn upwards so that the cat often looks very happy and pleased.
The
Somali is relatively rare in Australia, with only a handful of
breeders around the country. However this well-kept secret is getting
out, and typically owners are so “smitten” due to the delightful
combination of wild beauty and lively, affectionate companionship,
that they tend to go back for a second cat!
The
diverse and intriguing nature of the beautiful Somali brings their
loving caretakers years of love and laughter, from the cat of many
contrasts.
