Somali Cat
The Good
- Incredibly intelligent and trainable - can learn tricks and commands
- Excellent with children and other pets when properly socialised
- Stunning fox-like appearance with manageable grooming needs
- Highly social and entertaining companions who love being part of family life
The Real
- High energy levels require significant daily play and mental stimulation
- Can become destructive when bored or left alone for long periods
- Prone to specific genetic health conditions requiring careful breeder selection
- Rare breed with limited availability and higher costs in Australia
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Somali cat is essentially a long-haired version of the beloved Abyssinian, combining stunning fox-like beauty with an engaging, interactive personality. These medium-sized cats weigh between 3-5.5 kilograms and sport gorgeous ticked coats in colours ranging from ruddy red to blue, fawn, and sorrel. What truly sets Somalis apart is their remarkable intelligence and social nature - they're the kind of cats who want to be involved in everything you're doing, but on their own terms.
Originally developed from Abyssinian breeding programmes, Somalis have carved out their own identity as exceptional family companions. They're particularly well-suited to Australian households that can provide plenty of interaction and mental stimulation. Unlike typical lap cats, Somalis prefer to show affection by staying close to their humans - perhaps perched on your shoulder while you work from home or supervising your weekend cooking from the kitchen bench.
These cats thrive in active households where they won't be left alone for extended periods. They're brilliant with respectful children, often becoming their devoted playmates, and generally get along well with other cats and even cat-friendly dogs. For Melbourne families juggling school runs or Brisbane professionals working flexible hours, a Somali can be an incredibly rewarding companion - as long as you're prepared for their entertaining antics and need for engagement.
History
The Somali cat has a rather mysterious but fascinating origin story that begins with their short-haired cousins, the Abyssinians. In the early 1900s, experts believe a recessive long-haired gene was introduced into Abyssinian breeding programmes, possibly through crosses with unknown long-haired cats. For decades, these occasional long-haired kittens were considered curiosities rather than a distinct breed.
The modern Somali can trace its lineage back to a cat named Raby Chuffa of Selene, originally from Great Britain, who was one of the first known carriers of the long-haired gene. Interestingly, Australia played a significant role in the breed's recognition - Somalis were first exhibited as "long-haired Abyssinians" at Australian cat shows in 1965, helping establish their identity as a distinct breed rather than simply a variant.
American breeders began actively developing Somalis as an individual breed in the 1960s and 1970s, working to establish consistent type and temperament. The breed's name pays homage to Somalia, which borders Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia), acknowledging their connection to the Abyssinian breed while establishing their unique identity.
Today, all major cat associations worldwide recognise the Somali as a distinct breed, though they remain relatively rare. In Australia, dedicated breeders work to maintain the breed's health and temperament, though finding a Somali kitten often requires patience and research to locate reputable breeders who conduct proper health testing.
Traits & Characteristics
Somali Cat characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Somalis are generally healthy cats with lifespans ranging from 11-16 years, but like many purebred cats, they're prone to specific genetic conditions that responsible breeders should test for. The two main health concerns are pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency, which affects red blood cell metabolism and can lead to anaemia, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), an eye condition that can cause blindness in young kittens.
Another serious hereditary condition seen in some Somali lines is renal amyloidosis, a disease where a protein called amyloid is deposited in the kidneys, leading to eventual kidney failure. Symptoms can be non-specific, including increased thirst, weight loss, and lethargy. There is no cure, but management can slow its progression. Choosing a breeder who is aware of this condition in their lines and breeds to minimise its incidence is crucial for the long-term health of the breed.
When selecting a Somali breeder in Australia, always ask for proof of genetic testing for both PK deficiency and PRA. Reputable breeders will have tested the parents and should provide health guarantees. Signs of PK deficiency include weakness, elevated heart rate, pale gums, and difficulty with normal activities, while PRA typically manifests as vision problems in very young kittens.
Australian Seasonal Care Considerations:
During Australia's intense summer months (December-February), Somalis need careful temperature management. Their medium-long coats can make them susceptible to overheating during 35°C+ days common across much of the continent. Ensure your Perth or Adelaide home has adequate air conditioning, provide cooling mats, and always maintain fresh water. Watch for signs of heat stress including excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy.
Winter care varies significantly by region - while Darwin owners rarely worry about cold, Melbourne and Canberra households should provide warm bedding and ensure indoor temperatures stay comfortable. The dry heat of central Australia requires attention to hydration, while humid coastal areas from Cairns to Sydney need good ventilation to prevent skin issues.
Regular veterinary check-ups, dental care, and monitoring for age-related conditions like arthritis and kidney disease will help ensure your Somali enjoys a long, healthy life in the Australian climate.
Somalis are typically excellent eaters with healthy appetites, which can be both a blessing and a challenge for Australian owners. Their high activity levels and muscular build require quality nutrition with plenty of protein to maintain their athletic physique and support their energetic lifestyle.
Choose a complete and balanced commercial cat food that meets international nutritional standards, selecting formulas appropriate for your cat's life stage - kitten, adult, or senior. Look for foods with high-quality meat as the primary ingredient, avoiding those with excessive fillers or by-products. Given Australia's premium pet food market, brands like Royal Canin, Hills, and Advance offer excellent options, though your veterinarian can recommend the best choice for your individual cat.
Because Somalis are food-motivated and prone to overeating, measure portions carefully and feed two scheduled meals daily rather than free-feeding. This prevents obesity and helps maintain their sleek, athletic build. If your Somali eats too quickly - a common trait in this enthusiastic breed - slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders can help prevent digestive issues while providing mental stimulation.
Australian Climate Considerations:
During hot summer months across Australia, ensure fresh water is always available and consider wet food to increase hydration. In air-conditioned homes common in Queensland and Western Australia, appetite may remain consistent, but outdoor temperatures can affect eating patterns. Some cats eat less during extreme heat, so monitor your Somali's intake during heatwaves.
Winter feeding in cooler regions like Tasmania or the Blue Mountains might require slight increases in portions to maintain body condition, though indoor cats typically don't need significant adjustments. Always consult your local veterinarian about your Somali's specific nutritional needs, especially if they're particularly active or have any health considerations.
Despite their luxurious appearance, Somalis are surprisingly manageable when it comes to grooming - a relief for busy Australian families. Their silky, medium-long coat doesn't mat easily like Persian cats, making them an excellent choice for those who love the look of long-haired cats without the intensive maintenance.
Weekly brushing sessions are typically sufficient to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding around your home. Many Somalis actually enjoy being groomed, making this a pleasant bonding activity rather than a battle. During Australia's warmer months (October through March), you might notice increased shedding as they adapt to temperature changes, so consider bumping up brushing to twice weekly during these periods.
Interestingly, many Somalis enjoy water and may even show interest in joining you for a shower - though this enthusiasm should be channelled into proper bathing only when necessary, perhaps once or twice yearly unless they get into something messy. Their natural cleanliness means baths are rarely required.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Medium-long with shorter hair on shoulders, gradually lengthening toward the tail and belly
- Coat Colours: Ruddy (reddish-brown), cinnamon, blue, fawn, chocolate, and lilac with beautiful ticking
- Coat Patterns: Distinctive ticked pattern where each hair has multiple colour bands
- Hypoallergenic: No - they do shed and produce normal levels of allergens
Standard cat care applies: regular nail trims, dental care (especially important as Somalis can be prone to dental issues), and ear cleaning as needed. The breed doesn't require special skin care, but watch for any changes in scratching behaviour or skin condition, particularly during humid summer months in coastal Australian cities where skin sensitivities can occasionally flare up.
Here's where Somalis truly shine - their intelligence and eagerness to engage make them one of the most trainable cat breeds you'll encounter. These cats genuinely enjoy learning and will often surprise you with their problem-solving abilities and memory for routines.
Somalis excel at clicker training and can learn basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Many owners successfully teach them to fetch, walk on a harness, and even perform simple tricks. Their food motivation makes positive reinforcement training particularly effective - just remember to account for training treats in their daily caloric intake.
Mental stimulation is absolutely crucial for this breed. Puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and rotating toy selection will help prevent the destructive behaviour that emerges when intelligent Somalis become bored. Consider investing in cat trees, wall shelves, and climbing structures - these athletic cats love vertical spaces and will use every inch of height available in your Australian home.
Socialisation and Play:
Somalis thrive on interaction and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. For Australian families where everyone works or attends school full-time, consider getting two Somali kittens or ensuring your single cat has plenty of environmental enrichment. Interactive toys, window perches for bird-watching, and even cat-safe videos can help occupy their active minds.
Their social nature makes them excellent candidates for supervised outdoor time on patios or in secure cat enclosures (catios), which are increasingly popular in Australian suburbs. Always supervise outdoor access due to their friendly nature - Somalis are often too trusting of strangers and other animals for unsupervised outdoor adventures.
Regular play sessions are essential - plan for at least 20-30 minutes of active play daily, broken into multiple sessions to match their attention span and energy bursts.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Somali owner is someone who genuinely enjoys interactive pets and has the time and energy to engage with their cat's intelligence and social needs. These cats are ideal for work-from-home professionals in Australia's growing flexible work culture, retirees who want an engaging companion, or active families with school-age children who can participate in play and training.
Somalis suit households where someone is home most of the day - they don't do well with the traditional 9-5 schedule where everyone leaves for eight hours. They're perfect for Melbourne's inner-city apartment dwellers who work flexible hours, Perth families with teenagers who can provide afternoon entertainment, or Brisbane empty-nesters looking for an interactive companion for their retirement years.
Housing Considerations:
These cats adapt well to apartment living provided they have adequate vertical space and enrichment. They're suitable for rental properties as they're typically well-behaved and not destructive when their needs are met. However, they do best with secure outdoor access - either a balcony, catio, or supervised garden time.
Lifestyle Match:
Ideal owners are those who appreciate a cat's independence but enjoy regular interaction. Think of someone who likes having a "conversation" with their cat, enjoys teaching tricks, and doesn't mind a feline supervisor for home projects. Somalis are excellent for people who travel occasionally but have reliable pet-sitters, as they adapt to new people relatively well.
They're not the right choice for extremely busy professionals, frequent travellers, or households seeking a low-maintenance lap cat. If you want a cat who'll greet you at the door, supervise your activities, and provide entertainment with their antics, a Somali could be your perfect match.
Interesting facts about the Somali Cat
Interesting Fact
Somali cats are often called "fox cats" due to their bushy tails and ticked coats that resemble red fox colouring
Interesting Fact
They were first exhibited as "long-haired Abyssinians" at Australian cat shows in 1965, playing a key role in breed recognition
Interesting Fact
Many Somalis enjoy water and may try to join their owners in the shower - quite unusual for cats
Interesting Fact
All modern Somali cats can trace their lineage back to a single British cat named Raby Chuffa of Selene
FAQ
Expect to pay between $1,500-$2,500 AUD for a Somali kitten from a reputable breeder. The higher price reflects their rarity and the health testing responsible breeders conduct. Always verify genetic testing for PK deficiency and PRA before purchasing.
Not particularly - while they're extremely affectionate, most Somalis prefer to stay close to you rather than being picked up and cuddled. They're more likely to sit beside you or on your shoulder than in your lap.
Yes, provided they have adequate stimulation and aren't left alone for long periods. They need vertical climbing spaces, interactive toys, and regular play sessions. A secure balcony or catio access is ideal for apartment-dwelling Somalis.
Weekly brushing is typically sufficient, though you might want to increase to twice weekly during Australian summer months when shedding increases. Their coats don't mat easily, making grooming relatively straightforward.
Absolutely - they're excellent with respectful children and often become devoted playmates. They're patient and rarely use claws inappropriately, making them ideal for families with kids who understand how to interact gently with cats.
Yes, but they need proper climate management during extreme heat. Ensure air conditioning during 35°C+ days, provide cooling mats, and monitor for signs of overheating. Their coats actually provide some insulation against heat when properly maintained.
Quite rare - you'll likely need to join waiting lists with reputable breeders and may need to travel interstate to find available kittens. The Somali Breed Council maintains directories of registered breeders across Australia.
Generally yes - they're social cats who often enjoy feline companionship and can adapt to cat-friendly dogs. Proper introductions are important, and their hunting instincts mean caution with small pets like birds or rabbits.