Eco 247 · Breed Explorer

The Somali the fox of the cat world

A ticked, glowing coat, a big bushy tail and a playful, curious mind. The Somali is the longhaired cousin of the Abyssinian, and every bit as lively.

  • 12–16years life expectancy
  • Mediumgrooming needs
  • Highenergy — playful and busy
Somali cat with a ticked ruddy coat
Ticked coat: each hair carries several bands of colour

Meet the Somali

Bright, bushy, and full of mischief

The Somali is the semi-longhaired version of the Abyssinian, one of the oldest known cat breeds. Its ticked coat, where each hair carries bands of colour, gives it a warm, glowing look, finished off with a full ruff and a bushy, fox-like tail.

Somalis are playful, inquisitive and energetic. They love to be involved, enjoy games and puzzles, and stay young at heart well into adulthood.

  • A ticked, semi-long coat and a fox-like tail
  • Playful, curious and always on the move
  • Affectionate without being clingy

Somali kittens

From kitten to full-grown

Every Somali starts out as a bundle of curiosity. Kittens grow quickly, and the cat you see above is what yours will grow into.

Always choose a registered breeder. A good breeder will have your kitten vet-checked, vaccinated and microchipped, and will happily answer your questions and introduce you to the parents.

The essentials

The Somali at a glance

Size

Medium

Lithe, athletic and well-muscled

Colours

Ruddy · Red · Blue · Fawn

Each hair is banded (ticked), giving a warm, shimmering glow

Coat

Semi-long

Soft and fine, with a full ruff and bushy tail

Grooming

Medium

A brush once or twice a week

Life expectancy

12–16 years

A healthy, active companion

Personality

Lively & curious

Playful, clever and people-friendly

Temperament, honestly

Curious, clever and kind

Somalis are busy, happy cats. They'll explore every corner, invent their own games and then come and find you for a cuddle.

  • Playful

    Keeps a kitten's love of games well into adulthood.

  • Curious

    Investigates every bag, box and cupboard.

  • Athletic

    Loves to climb, leap and explore up high.

  • Affectionate

    Friendly and loving, on its own busy terms.

  • Sociable

    Usually gets on well with kids and other pets.

A Somali-friendly home

Life with a Somali

Give a Somali space to climb, toys to chase and people to play with, and it will reward you with years of fun and affection.

Room to explore

Cat trees, shelves and window perches give a Somali the height and variety it craves.

Daily play sessions

Wand toys, fetch and puzzle feeders burn off that famous Somali energy.

Easy coat care

Despite the fluffy look, the coat rarely mats. A weekly brush keeps it glossy.

Our Verified Somali Partner

Nareira

Our trusted Somali partner is a registered breeder, ensuring the highest standards of health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices.

  • Registered breeders
  • Health-focused
  • Sound temperament
  • Ethical breeding

Ready for life with a Somali?

Lively cats deserve sustainable essentials. From plant-based cat litter to everyday comforts, Eco 247 helps you care for your Somali, sustainably.