Page 172 - The Complete Cat Breed Book (DK)

170 C A T AL OG OF BREED S

SOMALI

A CAT WITH DRAMATIC LOOKS, A GORGEOUS COAT, AND A COLORFUL PERSONALITY

Place of origin US This astoundingly beautiful breed is a longhaired relative of
Date of origin 1960s the Abyssinian (p.83). Neither the Somali nor its short-coated
Breed registries CFA, FIFe, relative have any proven links with Africa to justify their names.
GCCF, TICA
The eye-catching coat of the Somali comes in a variety of rich
Weight range 8–12lb
(3.5–5.5kg) colors and is exceptionally fine-haired. Most striking of all of
Grooming the cat’s features is its immense, bushy tail. Lively and insatiably
curious, the Somali makes an amusing and engaging pet. Though
highly affectionate and family friendly,
Colors and patterns
Various colors, some with this is not generally a lap cat; the Somali
silver tipping; tortie has too much energy to sit still for long.
pattern; silver hairs
always ticked.
Eyes encircled Dark markings on
by lighter color cheeks and brow

Almond-shaped
eyes have
Slightly dark rim
Rich colored coat arched back Large,
known as “usual,” with round-tipped
distinctive ticking
ears set well
back on skull

Fine-haired,
ruddy coat
with very soft
texture

Rounded
muzzle

Long, bushy tail Muscular yet
resembles a graceful body
fox’s tail