Origins and History

Abyssinian History

The Abyssinian is celebrated as one of the oldest known cat breeds, with a regal history often linked to ancient Egypt. Modern genetic research suggests their origins lie in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean coast, rather than Ethiopia (historically Abyssinia). They were first imported to Britain in the 1860s, where they were developed as a formal breed.

Their distinctive ticked coat and graceful form closely resemble the cats depicted in ancient Egyptian art, making them a living link to feline history.

Somali History

The Somali is essentially a long-haired variant of the Abyssinian, resulting from a natural genetic mutation. For decades, long-haired kittens occasionally appeared in Abyssinian litters but were excluded from the show standard.

In the 1970s, breeders recognized the unique beauty of these cats and began selectively breeding them, establishing the Somali as a separate breed. Named for Somalia, Ethiopia's neighbor, the breed gained formal recognition by the late 1970s.

Physical Appearance

Abyssinian Appearance

Abyssinians possess the sleek, wild look of a miniature mountain lion:

• Build: Medium-sized, lithe, and muscular.
• Head: A modified wedge shape, showing alertness and grace.
• Ears: Large, pointed, and wide-set.
• Eyes: Almond-shaped, expressive, in shades of gold, green, or hazel.
• Coat: Short, fine, and lying close to the body with a silky texture.
• Ticking: Each hair is banded (agouti) with multiple colors, creating a warm, shimmering effect.
• Colors: Ruddy (most common), red (sorrel), blue, and fawn.

Somali Appearance

Somalis share the Abyssinian's elegant physique but are adorned with a luxurious coat:

• Build: Identical lithe and athletic body.
• Head: Same graceful wedge shape.
• Ears: Large and pointed, often with delightful lynx-like tufts.
• Eyes: Almond-shaped, in gold or green.
• Coat: Medium-long, exceptionally soft, and fine with full ticking.
• Distinctive Features: A bushy "fox-like" tail, a full ruff, and breeches (longer fur on the hind legs).
• Colors: The same palette as the Abyssinian: ruddy, red, blue, and fawn.

Coat Differences

Abyssinian Coat

• Length: Very short and sleek.
• Texture: Fine, silky, and resilient.
• Grooming: Requires only a quick weekly brushing to remove loose hair.
• Shedding: Minimal year-round.

Somali Coat

• Length: Medium to long, creating a full, flowing silhouette.
• Texture: Exceptionally soft and fine with no woolly undercoat, which reduces matting.
• Grooming: Needs brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent tangles and maintain the plume-like tail.
• Shedding: Moderate, with seasonal increases.

Both coats showcase the beautiful agouti ticking, a hallmark of their wild ancestry.

Personality and Temperament

Abyssinian Personality

Think of the Abyssinian as a perpetual motion machine. They are:

• Extremely Active: Constantly on the move, exploring and climbing.
• Highly Intelligent: Curious problem-solvers who learn tricks and open cabinets.
• Playful & Busy: Remain kitten-like throughout their lives and want to be involved in all household activities.
• Social & People-Oriented: They thrive on interaction but are typically not "lap cats"—they'd rather play than cuddle for long periods.
• Best For: Active individuals or families who can provide ample engagement and vertical space.

Somali Personality

The Somali offers a similar but slightly tempered version of the Abyssinian spirit:

• Active & Playful: Energetic and loves interactive games, but may have more focused play sessions.
• Intelligent & Inquisitive: Equally smart and curious about their surroundings.
• More Affectionate: Often more inclined to be a lap cat and enjoy quiet companionship.
• Entertaining & Mischievous: Possess a fun-loving, sometimes clownish personality.
• Best For: Those who love the Abyssinian's looks and energy but prefer a somewhat more relaxed and cuddly companion.

Grooming Requirements

Abyssinian Grooming

• Commitment: Minimal. A weekly brushing (5-10 minutes) is sufficient.
• Bathing: Rarely necessary.
• Overall: One of the easiest breeds to groom.

Somali Grooming

• Commitment: Moderate. Brushing 2-3 times per week (about 10-15 minutes per session) is key.
• Challenge: Their fine coat is less prone to severe matting than other longhairs, but regular care is essential to prevent knots, especially in the ruff and tail.
• Bathing: Occasional baths help maintain coat cleanliness and texture.

Health and Lifespan

Common Health Considerations

Both breeds are generally robust but share some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic eye disease that can lead to blindness.
• Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency: A metabolic disorder affecting red blood cells.
• Renal Amyloidosis: A serious kidney condition, though less common in modern breeding lines.
• Dental Issues: Such as gingivitis, requiring regular dental care.

Lifespan: Abyssinians typically live 13-15 years, while Somalis have a similar range of 11-16 years. Annual vet check-ups and a high-quality diet are crucial for longevity.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Abyssinian Activity Level

• Requirement: Extremely High. They need multiple interactive play sessions daily (30+ minutes total).
• Environment: Must have cat trees, shelves, and ample vertical space to climb and survey their domain.
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle feeders, clicker training, and rotating toys are essential to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior.

Somali Activity Level

• Requirement: High, but More Manageable. Daily interactive play (20-30 minutes) is important.
• Environment: Also loves climbing and exploring but may be slightly more content with periodic play.
• Engagement: Enjoys games that stimulate their intelligence but may have slightly longer "off" periods than the Abyssinian.

Cost Comparison

Initial Costs (Kitten/Purchase)

Estimated Annual Costs

Estimated Annual Total for Either Breed: $1,050 - $2,300

Ideal Living Environment

Best Home for an Abyssinian

• Active households with people home often.
• Safe, indoor-only living with extensive vertical territory.
• Owners who enjoy interactive play and training.
• Homes without many fragile decorations.

Best Home for a Somali

• Similar to the Abyssinian, but slightly more adaptable to slightly calmer routines.
• Indoor living is strongly recommended.
• Owners willing to commit to regular grooming.
• Families or individuals who want an active but also affectionate companion.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose an Abyssinian If You:

• Desire an extremely active, "busybody" cat that is always involved.
• Have significant time daily for interactive play and engagement.
• Prefer a sleek, low-maintenance coat.
• Appreciate a fiercely independent yet social personality.
• Lead an active lifestyle yourself.

Choose a Somali If You:

• Love the wild Abyssinian look but adore long, flowing fur.
• Want a highly active cat with a slightly more relaxed, affectionate demeanor.
• Don't mind a moderate grooming routine.
• Are captivated by their "foxy" appearance and plumed tail.
• Seek a playful companion who also enjoys quiet snuggle time.

Conclusion

The Abyssinian and Somali are two sides of the same magnificent coin. Both offer:

• Ancient, Wild Beauty: The stunning ticked coat is a direct link to early feline history.
• Brilliant Intelligence: They are among the smartest cat breeds, capable of learning tricks and solving puzzles.
• Enduring Playfulness: Their kitten-like energy and curiosity last a lifetime.
• Elegant Athleticism: Graceful, muscular builds that hint at their agile nature.
• Hypoallergenic Qualities: Both breeds produce lower levels of the Fel d 1 allergen than many cats.

Your decision ultimately hinges on personal preference:

• Coat & Grooming: Sleek and easy vs. luxurious and requiring regular care.
• Energy & Engagement: Maximum intensity vs. high but slightly more manageable activity.
• Affection Style: Companionable observer vs. cuddly participant.

Neither breed is suited for a sedentary home. However, if you can provide an engaging, loving environment, either the elegant Abyssinian or the foxy Somali will reward you with unparalleled companionship, beauty, and entertainment for years to come.