This energetic breed is not only a sight to behold,
with its luxurious coat and fox-like appearance, but is also an
excellent family cat. It is even tempered, social, and playful,
which makes it ideal for children. Though it has a beautiful coat,
this breed only requires moderate grooming.
Like the Abyssinian, the Somali is extroverted, athletic, very active,
affectionate, and playful. It is a good mouser and enjoys running
about outside. Somalis love being around people, but can be rather
insistent when seeking attention. Some sources state that the Somali
is hardly distinguishable in personality from the Abyssinian, while
others say it is calmer and less demanding. This is an intelligent
breed that often opens cupboards, and can even learn to turn on
faucets. The Somali is sensitive to the cold, and some even appear
to be afraid of the cold. This breed has a soft voice and is usually
quiet. Since the coat is of medium length, it only requires weekly
grooming most of the year and daily grooming during shedding season.
The Somali is prized for its fox-like appearance, which is created
by the medium length of its ticked coat, fluffy tail, ruff (thick
collar), and large tufted ears. Other than the coat length and tufted
ears, the Somali is very similar to the Abyssinian. It is medium-sized,
slender, and long with a muscular build. The back is slightly arched,
making it appear like it is readying to leap into the air. The head
is a slightly rounded wedge. The markings on the face create the
appearance of a mask and smile. The eyes are large and almond-shaped
and the ears are large and moderately pointed. The legs are long
and thin. The tail is of moderate length, is thick at the base,
and slightly tapers. They weigh approximately 9 to 16 pounds and
live approximately 12 years.
The Somali has a semi-long coat with a thick undercoat. Like the
Abyssinian, each strand of the Somali's coat has different bands
of color, which is referred to as being "ticked". The
Cat Fancier's Association, the main cat association in the United
States, only recognizes the more wild looking color variations:
Ruddy, Red, Blue, and Fawn. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy,
the main cat association in England, accepts those colors, along
with Sorrel, Chocolate, Lilac, and Cream. It also accepts Tortie,
Silver, and Tortie Silver varieties of those colors. The silver
varieties are characterized by a white undercoat.
This breed craves exercise and activity. It needs time to run about
outside. It also needs toys and a scratching post for indoors.
|
