Somali
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- lively
- curious
- playful
- mischievous
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Somali
The Somali is the long-haired form of the Abyssinian. Long-haired kittens occasionally appeared in Abyssinian litters, and breeders in North America developed them in the mid-twentieth century. Somalis share the Abyssinian's ticked coat and athletic build, with a semi-long coat, full ruff and bushy tail.
Temperament
Lively, curious and playful. Somalis are often mischievous and enjoy interactive games, tending to want to be involved in household activity.
Play & activity
Very active. Needs daily play sessions, tall cat trees and puzzle feeders to stay content.
Grooming
The semi-long coat mats less than many longhairs but benefits from brushing two or three times a week.
Care & wellbeing
Shares some inherited conditions with Abyssinians, including a form of retinal atrophy and pyruvate kinase deficiency. Dental care is helpful.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 4 kg adult- Water
- 160 ml–240 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 240 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Somali
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Somali is the long-haired relative of the Abyssinian, arising when long coat genes appeared in Abyssinian litters. It has a bushy tail and a ticked coat. It is playful, active and sociable.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Renal amyloidosis
- Dental disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- PK deficiency DNA test
- PRA DNA test
Not every Somali is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Somali right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Somali get?
Adult Somalis typically weigh around 3–5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Somalis live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Somali?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Somali need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Somalis affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Somalis shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Somalis good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Somali live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Somalis have?
The breed can be prone to pyruvate kinase deficiency, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), renal amyloidosis. Not every Somali is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.