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.

Also see

Somali cat breeders

Somali cat photos