Somali Cats: The Fox-Tailed Beauties

Somali cats are long-haired Abyssinians with bushy fox-like tails, ticked coats that shimmer in the light, and boundless energy.

They are one of the most beautiful cat breeds - and one of the most active. If you want a cat who acts like a perpetual kitten with a supermodel appearance, Somalis deliver.

Do not expect a lap cat. Somalis are athletes who climb, jump, and explore from dawn to dusk.

Quick Facts

• Weight: 6-10 pounds (females smaller)
• Lifespan: 11-16 years
• Temperament: Energetic, playful, curious, social, mischievous
• Grooming needs: Moderate (silky coat)
• Energy level: Very high
• Intelligence: Very high
• Vocal level: Quiet to moderate
• Good with kids: Yes, if kids are active
• Good with other pets: Excellent
• Nickname: “Fox cat”

What Makes Somalis Special

Long-Haired Abyssinians

Somalis are essentially long-haired versions of Abyssinians. They share:

• The same ticked coat pattern
• The same high-energy personality
• The same athletic build
• The same intelligence

The difference? Somalis have semi-long, silky fur and those stunning bushy tails.

The breed appeared naturally when long-haired kittens occasionally showed up in Abyssinian litters. Breeders eventually developed them into their own recognized breed.

Stunning Fox-Like Tails

Somali tails are their signature feature. They are:

• Long and bushy
• Fully plumed like fox tails
• Flowing and elegant

Combined with their ruff (neck fur) and britches (leg fur), Somalis look like elegant foxes.

Ticked Coats That Shimmer

Somali coats have a unique ticked pattern. Each individual hair has multiple color bands, creating a shimmering, iridescent effect.

Colors include:

• Ruddy (red-brown with black ticking)
• Red (cinnamon with chocolate ticking)
• Blue (warm gray with slate ticking)
• Fawn (beige with light brown ticking)

The ticking gives them a wild, exotic appearance.

Athletic, Lean Builds

Somalis are medium-sized with lean, muscular bodies. They have:

• Long legs built for jumping
• Graceful, fluid movements
• Excellent balance
• Surprising strength for their size

Watching a Somali move is like watching a dancer.

Expressive Almond-Shaped Eyes

Somalis have large, almond-shaped eyes outlined with dark “eyeliner” markings. Eye colors include:

• Gold
• Green
• Hazel
• Copper

Their eyes are incredibly expressive and give them an alert, intelligent look.

Temperament

Somalis are:

• Energetic - They are in constant motion. Somalis do not sit still.
• Curious - They investigate everything. Closed cabinets, drawers, and doors are unacceptable.
• Playful - They stay kitten-like well into adulthood. Daily play is mandatory.
• Social - They bond closely with their humans and want to be involved in everything.
• Intelligent - They learn tricks, solve puzzles, and figure out how to open things.
• Mischievous - Somalis are known for stealing small objects and hiding them.
• Acrobatic - They love climbing, jumping, and perching on high places.
• Dog-like - Many play fetch, walk on leashes, and follow you everywhere.

Somalis are extroverts who demand engagement.

Living with a Somali

They Never Stop Moving

Somalis are perpetual motion machines. They:

• Race around the house at top speed
• Leap from floor to ceiling in one bound
• Climb everything (curtains, bookshelves, you)
• Investigate every sound and movement

If you want a calm, sedate cat, Somalis are not for you.

They Need Vertical Space

Somalis are climbers. Provide:

• Tall cat trees (ceiling height)
• Wall-mounted shelves
• Cat walkways
• High perches

If you do not provide vertical space, they will climb your furniture, curtains, and shelves.

They Are Not Lap Cats

Somalis are affectionate but busy. They show love by:

• Sitting near you (not on you)
• Following you everywhere
• Bringing you toys
• “Helping” with everything you do

They want to be near you but are too busy to sit still.

They Are Mischievous

Somalis are known for:

• Knocking things off shelves and counters
• Opening cabinets and drawers
• Stealing small objects (hair ties, pens, jewelry) and hiding them
• Unrolling toilet paper
• Getting into everything

Somali-proof your home or accept the chaos.

They Need Companionship

Somalis do not like being alone. They become anxious and destructive without interaction.

If you work full-time:

• Get a second Somali or another high-energy breed
• Consider a playful dog
• Hire a pet sitter for midday visits

Somalis are happiest with companions.

Care Requirements

Grooming

Somalis have semi-long, silky coats that are easier to maintain than Persian fur.

Grooming routine:

• Brush 2-3 times per week with a slicker brush or comb
• Daily brushing during spring shedding season
• Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
• Check ears weekly for wax buildup
• Brush teeth regularly

Their coats are silky and mat less than other long-haired breeds.

Bathing

Somalis rarely need baths. Their coats naturally repel dirt.

If you do bathe them:

• Use a gentle cat shampoo
• Rinse thoroughly
• Let air dry or use a low-heat dryer

Many Somalis tolerate baths well.

Exercise and Play

Somalis need at least 30-60 minutes of active play daily. Without it, they become destructive.

Best activities:

• Feather wand hunting (they go crazy for these)
• Laser pointer chase (end with a catchable toy)
• Fetch (many love it)
• Puzzle feeders
• Agility courses
• Cat wheels (yes, they will use them)
• Training sessions with clicker training

Rotate toys weekly to keep them engaged.

Diet

Somalis are lean and active. Feed high-quality, protein-rich food.

• Choose meat-based wet or dry food
• Measure portions to prevent obesity
• Provide fresh water at all times

Somalis burn calories quickly, so monitor weight and adjust as needed.

Mental Stimulation

Somalis are highly intelligent and need mental challenges.

Provide:

• Puzzle feeders
• Training sessions (teach tricks)
• Interactive toys
• New experiences (rotate toys, rearrange furniture)

Without mental stimulation, Somalis become bored and destructive.

Health Considerations

Somalis are generally healthy but watch for these genetic conditions:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a genetic eye condition that causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.

Signs:

• Bumping into things
• Dilated pupils
• Reluctance to jump

Prevention: Ask breeders for PRA screening results. A genetic test exists.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK Def)

PK Def is a genetic condition that causes anemia by destroying red blood cells.

Signs:

• Lethargy
• Pale gums
• Weakness

Prevention: Ask breeders for PK Def testing results. A genetic test exists.

Renal Amyloidosis

Some Somalis inherit renal amyloidosis, where abnormal proteins deposit in the kidneys.

Signs:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss

Prevention: Ask breeders about family history. No genetic test exists yet.

Dental Disease

Like many cats, Somalis can develop dental issues.

Prevention:

• Brush teeth 2-3 times per week
• Provide dental treats
• Schedule annual dental cleanings

Are Somalis Good with Kids?

Yes, if kids are active and respectful. Somalis match kid energy levels and love interactive play.

Teach kids to:

• Use toys, not hands, for play
• Respect the cat’s space
• Let the cat approach them first

Somalis prefer older kids who can engage in play without being too rough.

Are Somalis Good with Other Pets?

Yes. Somalis are social and do well with other animals.

With other cats:

• Choose playful breeds that can keep up
• Provide separate resources (food, litter, beds)
• Supervise introductions

With dogs:

• Choose active, cat-friendly breeds
• Somalis often play with dogs like they are other cats
• Supervise until they establish boundaries

With small pets:

• High prey drive - not recommended with birds, hamsters, or fish

Common Mistakes

Underestimating Their Energy

Somalis are not average house cats. They need constant activity, play, and stimulation.

Not Providing Vertical Space

Somalis are climbers. Without cat trees and shelves, they climb curtains, furniture, and shelves.

Expecting a Lap Cat

Somalis are affectionate but busy. They do not sit still.

Leaving Them Alone Too Long

Somalis become anxious and destructive when left alone. They need companionship.

Ignoring Their Intelligence

Somalis are too smart for passive ownership. They need mental challenges or they become bored and destructive.

Finding a Somali

Somalis are moderately rare. Expect to wait for a kitten.

Adoption

Check breed-specific rescues and shelters. Somalis occasionally end up in rescues when owners underestimate their energy needs.

Where to look:

• Somali and Abyssinian rescue organizations
• Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet (search “Somali”)
• Local shelters (rare but possible)

Reputable Breeders

Expect to pay $1,000-$1,500 for a purebred Somali from a reputable breeder.

What to ask:

• Are parents PRA and PK Def tested?
• Can I meet the parents?
• How are kittens socialized?
• What health guarantees do you offer?

Red flags:

• Breeders with constant availability
• No genetic testing
• Unwilling to let you visit
• Selling kittens under 12 weeks old

Waitlists Are Common

Quality breeders often have waitlists. Be prepared to wait 6-12 months for a kitten.

Somali vs. Abyssinian

Somalis and Abyssinians are nearly identical except for coat length.

Somalis:

• Semi-long, silky coat
• Bushy tail
• Requires more grooming
• Looks more exotic

Abyssinians:

• Short, ticked coat
• Sleek tail
• Lower grooming needs
• Looks more wild

Both have the same high-energy, playful, intelligent personality.

What To Do Next

• If you want a high-energy, playful, stunning cat who keeps you active, Somalis are perfect
• If you want a calm lap cat who lounges all day, choose a different breed
• If you have time for daily play and mental challenges, Somalis thrive
• If you work long hours and want a low-maintenance cat, Somalis are not the right fit