Behaviour/Adaptability

The Somali has been described as more shy and independent than his Abyssinian relative. Abyssinian relative. They enjoy human company. Their active disposition means they will enjoy access to the outdoors for exercise. The Somali is not well suited for children.

Details

Somali cats are much more than the sum of their parts. They are a lively, beautiful and intelligent cat that delights in the company of humans and animals alike. Given the history of the Somali’s origin, it can be easy to dismiss these beautiful cats as “just” a long-haired Abyssinian. But, as any Somali cat owner will tell you, there is much more to the story.
Somalis are bright, gregarious and tirelessly active cats who enjoy learning tricks, bonding with humans and other animals alike, and exploring every inch of their environment. Charmingly curious and playful, the Somali cat will be a lifelong friend and companion who will do his best to ensure you never have a dull moment. The Somali comes in four recognised colours: red, russet, fawn and blue. Internationally, there are some breeders who trade in Somalis with tortoiseshell or brindle coats, but these are rare and not usually recognised colours by most breeders or breed associations.
In most other respects, the coat of the Somali mimics that of the Abyssinian cat, only with long hair instead of short. Both have the same ticking, with individual hairs having between six and 24 bands of alternating colour from root to tip. Most Somalis are found in the reddish or orange/reddish colour range which, together with their bushy tails, has led people to nickname them “fox cats”.
Somalis are medium-large cats – the average weight of a Somali cat is usually 2.5 to 3 kilos – with large almond-shaped eyes, large pointed ears and striking facial markings that are another hallmark of the breed.”