The Somali cat originated in Africa. In 1967, it was a long-haired cat that was mutated from a purebred Abyssinian cat. It was a breed formed through planned breeding by experts. Later, after breeding and cultivation in Europe, the United States and other countries, there were four varieties respectively. In 1983, it was recognized by the British Cat Association. Then in 1991, the Somali cat won the championship status at the British Cat Fan Management Committee.

(1) Overall characteristics

The appearance of the Somali cat is basically the same as that of the Abyssinian cat, but the coat is slightly longer. The body is slender, slightly round, and of medium size. The overall proportions are well proportioned, and the muscles are well developed and strong. He walks very confidently and has a royal demeanor.

(2)Appearance characteristics

The Somali cat's head is slightly rounded and wedge-shaped. All Somali cats have dark circles around the eyes surrounded by light-colored hair. They have clear markings on their forehead and cheeks, which are extremely unique. The ears are large, wide at the base and narrow at the tip, very alert, and V-shaped. Somali cats have particularly expressive faces, elf eyes (mostly green, but also amber and light brown) and a medium-sized nose.

(3) Coat characteristics

The Somali cat has a medium-length coat, which is softer, finer and denser than other cats. The hair on the shoulders is shorter, the hair on the legs is longer, and the tail hair is also very thick. The coat colors include chestnut silver white, brown red, dark red, blue, silver cream yellow, lavender, blue silver white, silver white, chocolate silver, etc. Among them, dark red is the representative color of Abyssinian cats and Somali cats, and is the most common. All Somali cats have amber, hazel or green eyes.

(4)Characteristics

Somali cats are very intelligent, lively, active, gentle and considerate. They especially like to be cute towards their owners and are eager to be favored by their owners. It has very developed motor nerves, likes to run, and moves quickly; its cry is particularly clear and loud, like music. Although the Somali cat has a gentle personality, he can be bossy at times.