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Long-haired Abyssinian. Bushy tail and gorgeous ticked coat. Curious and playful; called 'fox cat.'
The Somali is a long-haired variety of the Abyssinian cat, developed in the 1960s and 1970s from longhaired kittens occasionally appearing in Abyssinian litters. Canadian and American breeders selectively developed the variety into a distinct breed. The name "Somali" was chosen as Somalia borders Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia), the ancestral homeland of the Abyssinian. Somalis share the Abyssinian's ticked coat pattern and lithe, muscular build, but with a semi-long, silky coat and a bushy, fox-like tail. They are highly active, intelligent, and social cats.
The Somali lives 12-14 years.
The Somali grows to Weight 3-5kg.
Origin
Canada and United States (ancestral origin: Ethiopia)
Lifespan
12-14 years
Size
Weight 3-5kg
Temperature
18〜28℃
High-protein complete food. Adjust portions to activity level.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Linnaeus, 1758
Synonyms: Felis silvestris catus
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Felis catus · TICA breed profiles · CFA breed profiles
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
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Active, curious, and playful. Intelligent and loves being with family.
High exercise needs. Cat trees and interactive toys essential.
Semi-long ticked coat. Brush 2-3 times weekly.
United States (long-haired Abyssinian variant)
Watch for PRA and renal amyloidosis. Sensitive to boredom.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Somali is 12-14 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Somali typically reaches Weight 3-5kg as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Somali feeds on: High-protein complete food. Adjust portions to activity level.. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Somali varies significantly depending on lineage, coat color, sex, and age. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026