Somali

The first Somalis appeared as longhaired kittens in litters of Abyssinians and American breeders were quick to see their potential. The breed acquired the name Somali as an acknowledgement of their Abyssinian ancestry, Somalia being a neighbouring country to Ethiopia (formerly known as Abyssinia).

The medium length coat OF THE Somali needs regular grooming to prevent matting of the undercoat, and its particular feature is the ticking that runs down each hair shaft in bands, giving an extremely rich colouring. The principle colours are Usual, a rich, golden brown, Sorrel, a rich copper, which is very foxy; Fawn, a pale oatmeal and Blue, which has a warm oatmeal undercoat tipped with bands of blue. There are many more colours, including a range based on Silver.

Somalis are extremely affectionate and people-oriented and speak in a chirruping voice; they are excellent with children and have outstanding temperaments.

The numbers registered with the GCCF have remained fairly steady over recent years, 253 were registered in 1994 and 216 in 2003.

Although Somalis have no particular health problems, it makes good sense to insure your cats.  Many breeders sell their kittens with six weeks free insurance cover.  More and more owners are now insuring their pets as advances in veterinary medicine, plus the soaring costs of drugs can mean astronomical bills.

Somali Breed Clubs and Rescue

• The Somali Cat Club
• Semi Long Hair Cat Association
• Long Hair & Semi Longhair Cat Club

Somali Breeders

Contact the Breed Clubs who will have lists of Breeders and may have Kitten Lists.