The Somali is a long-haired abyssinian. The breed appeared spontaneously in the 1950s from Abyssinian breeding programs when a number of Abyssinian kittens were born with bottle-brush tails and long fluffy coats. Abyssinians and Somalis share the same personality (active, intelligent, playful, curious) and appearance. The only difference between them is the fur length and therefore the amount of grooming required. Unlike most long-haired cats, Somalis shed very little excess hair. Their coat is generally shed en masse, or “blown”, once or twice a year, rather than constantly shedding like a Persian or other long-haired cat
Somalis have a striking, bushy tail, which, combined with their ruddy coat, has earned them the nickname of “fox cats” in some circles. Their coats are ticked, which is a variation on tabby markings, and some Somalis may show full tabby stripes on portions of their bodies, but this is seen as a flaw, and tabby Somalis are only sold as neutered pets. The only tabby marking on a show Somali is the traditional tabby ‘M’ on the middle of the forehead. Like Abyssinians, they have a dark rim around their eyes that makes them look like they are wearing kohl, and they have a small amount of white on their muzzles and chins/throats. White elsewhere on their bodies disqualifies them from show-status.
Temperament
They are smart and lively, but also alert and curious. They may be shy, but are freedom loving, and must have plenty of room to roam and explore.
Colors and Patterns
Usually rich golden brown apricot ticked with brown. With the Sorrel types: Apricot ticked with cinnamon. With the Chocolate types: Apricot ticked with a dark brown color. With the Blue types: Not apricot, but mushroom ticked with blue. With the Lilac types: Mushroom ticked with lilac. And, last but not least, with the Fawn types: Mushroom ticked with fawn. There is also the not as popular or common Silver, Red (Actually quite common red!), Cream, and six torteiseshell types of Somalis.
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