Do Somali cats make good pets?

What is the difference between Somali and Abyssinian cats?

The Somali is essentially the longhaired version of the Abyssinian. The Abyssinian was developed in Great Britain from a cat brought into that country by Lord Robert Napier, following a military expedition to Abyssinia.

Should I get a Somali cat?

Don’t get a Somali if you want a cat that can be taken for a furry doorstop, or if you want a cat that’s just going to lie around the house all day. With all the virtues of the Abyssinian and adorned by a gorgeous semi-long coat, the Somali is a beautiful and boisterous addition to any household.

What is a Somali?

Somalis are the best home entertainment you can buy, and they are more like people than cats— small, hairy, hyperactive people. Very energetic and high spirited, Somalis cavort like kittens until well into old age.

What kind of cat is a Somali?

The Somali is a long-haired Abyssinian. The breed appeared spontaneously in the 1950s from Abyssinian breeding programs when a number of Abyssinian kittens were born with bottle-brush tails and long fluffy coats. Abyssinians and Somalis share the same personality (active, intelligent, playful, curious) and appearance.

How do you take care of a Somali cat?

It eventually leads to kidney failure. The medium length coat of the Somali needs a moderate amount of grooming. Comb the coat once or twice a week with a stainless steel comb to remove dead hair, prevent or remove tangles, and distribute skin oils. In the spring, when the cat is shedding his winter coat, you may need to comb him daily.

What kind of health problems do Somali cats have?

Problems that may affect the Somali include the following: Hyperesthesia syndrome, a neurological problem that can cause cats to excessively groom themselves, leading to hair loss, and to act frantically, especially when they are touched or petted Patellar luxation, a hereditary dislocation of the kneecap that can range from mild to severe.

What is a Somali cat?

The Somali is a breathtaking cat that resembles a red fox, with its large tufted ears, masked face, large neck ruff and dramatically bushy tail. Also known as the Fox Cat or the Longhaired Abyssinian, the Somali is medium-sized and muscular, with well-balanced proportions and an overall sleek, athletic build.

Is the Somali the right dog for You?

The active and social Somali is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. He will play fetch as well as any retriever, learns tricks easily and loves the attention he receives from children who treat him politely and with respect.

What is the origin of Somali cats?

The Somali cat is often described as a long-haired African cat, a product of a recessive gene in Abyssinian cats, though how the gene was introduced into the Abyssinian gene pool is unknown. It is believed that they originated from Somalia, a long lost cousin of the Abyssinian cat, which has origins in Ethiopia.

Why does my Somali cat play with my hair?

Somali Cats Have a “Hairdresser Gene” Like the Abyssinian, the Somali absolutely loves playing with peoples’ hair, beards, and mustaches. That has led cat fanciers to jokingly speculate that it must have a “hairdresser gene” responsible for these behaviors.

What is the difference between a Somali and Abyssinian cat?

With many traits in common with its sister breed, the Abyssinian cat, the Somali cat is often considered its longer-haired version. The Somali cat is, however, a cat breed in itself and is known for its character, intelligence and distinctive beautiful coat.

What kind of tail does a Somali cat have?

Somalis have a striking, bushy tail, which, combined with their ruddy coat, has earned them the nickname of “fox cats” in some circles. In addition to the fluffy tail, the Somali breed features a black stripe down its back, large ears, a full ruff and breeches, contributing further to the overall “foxy” look.

Where do Somali cats come from?

These cats were actually produced out of a recessive gene found in Abyssinians; it’s believed that Somalis come from Somalia, whereas their cousins emerged out of Ethiopia. While they closely resemble Abyssinians, Somalis are definitely a distinct breed, and that’s especially evident in their varied colors.

What kind of personality does a Somali cat have?

Personality: The Somali is an active cat who loves to jump and play. In spite of that, she is an easy cat to have in your home. Somalis love people and other animals.

Are Somali cats sensitive to cold?

It has a soft voice and is usually quiet. This is an intelligent breed that often opens cupboards, and can even learn to turn on faucets. This cat breed is a good mouser and enjoys running about outside. Yet the Somali Cat is sensitive to the cold, and some even appear to be afraid of the cold.

What is the most common disease in Somali cats?

Another common affliction for all breeds of cats is feline infectious anemia (FIA). Less common in cats (more in dog breeds) is auto immune mediated hemolytic anemia (AIHA), but at least one breeder has reported that some lines of Somali are more prone to this condition.

Are feral cats capable of taking care of themselves?

A feral cat is one that has never been in captivity. It knows nothing about human companionship; it doesn’t need human companionship; it is not interested in human companionship. A pregnant feral cat is perfectly capable of taking care of itself and its babies. Why make this distinction?

Are Somali cats healthy?

Somali Cats have been said to be a generally healthy type of cat, but just like many other breeds, these cats may be prone to some health problems.

How old is the oldest Somali cat?

One of the oldest living Somali Cats was twenty-eight years old. Somali Cats have been said to be a generally healthy type of cat, but just like many other breeds, these cats may be prone to some health problems.

What kind of health problems do Somalis have?

Somali Health Issues 1 Dental Disease. Most cats are prone to gingivitis no matter what the breed and Somalis are no exception. … 2 Anemia. Some Somalis can get a type of anemia called Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia, usually referred to as AIHA. 3 Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency. … 4 Renal Amyloidosis.