• Origin: Uncertain (named for Ethiopia, but genetic links point to Southeast Asia).
• Historical Period: Ancient (with depictions in Egyptian art).
• Modern Recognition: Late 19th century.
• Status: One of the oldest documented cat breeds.

Historical Evidence: Despite being named for Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), genetic research suggests the Abyssinian's true origins lie in Southeast Asia or along the Indian Ocean coast. Artistic representations from ancient Egypt show similar cats, though these likely depict a naturally occurring type rather than the direct ancestor.

Development: The modern Abyssinian breed was refined in Great Britain during the late 1800s, using cats imported by soldiers and traders. Formal breed standards were established in the early 20th century.

Somali Origins

Accidental Creation:

• Origin: United States, Canada, and Australia.
• Historical Period: 1960s–1970s.
• Foundation: Long-haired variants from Abyssinian litters.
• Recognition: Gained formal breed status in the 1970s and 1980s.

Development Story: The Somali breed began when long-haired kittens unexpectedly appeared in Abyssinian litters. Initially dismissed as breeding flaws, dedicated breeders in North America and Australia recognized their unique beauty and selectively developed them into a distinct breed. The name "Somali" was chosen as a nod to Somalia, Ethiopia's neighbor.

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Size and Build

Coat Characteristics

Abyssinian Coat:

• Length: Short and fine.
• Texture: Dense and soft to the touch.
• Pattern: Ticked tabby (each hair has alternating bands of color).
• Common Colors: Ruddy, red, blue, and fawn.
• Grooming: Weekly brushing is sufficient.
• Shedding: Moderate.

Somali Coat:

• Length: Medium to long, exceptionally soft.
• Texture: Fine and silky.
• Pattern: Ticked tabby (identical to the Abyssinian).
• Common Colors: Same spectrum as the Abyssinian.
• Grooming: Requires brushing 2–3 times per week.
• Shedding: Moderate to heavy, especially during seasonal changes.

The Ticked Tabby Pattern: Both breeds showcase the stunning agouti (ticked) pattern, where individual hairs have multiple color bands. This creates a warm, shimmering, almost iridescent effect, reminiscent of wild cats like cougars.

Distinctive Features

Shared by Both Breeds:

• Large, alert ears.
• Almond-shaped eyes in gold or green.
• A keen, "wild" facial expression.
• A long, gracefully tapering tail.
• The signature ticked coat.
• Athletic and fluid movement.

Unique to the Somali:

• A full, bushy "fox tail."
• Elegant ear tufts (lynx tips).
• A noticeable ruff around the neck.
• Longer fur on the hind legs ("breeches").
• A generally more dramatic and plush appearance.

Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits

Shared Behavioral Characteristics

Constant "Busyness":

• Both cats are perpetually in motion.
• They must investigate every sight and sound.
• Excellent vertical jumpers who love high perches.
• Often follow their owners from room to room.

Fascination with Water:

• Many are intrigued by running water.
• May play in sinks or watch drips intently.
• Some clever individuals even learn to turn faucets on.

Social Needs:

• Thrive on companionship and do not like being alone for long periods.
• Generally get along well with other pets.
• Deeply interactive and involved with their human families.

Subtle Behavioral Differences

While their core personalities align, some owners observe minor nuances:

Somali:

• May exhibit slightly more patience during grooming sessions.
• Often has a marginally calmer, more "regal" demeanor.
• Seems to enjoy being admired and may be more "showy."

Abyssinian:

• Energy can be intensely focused, especially during play.
• The sleek appearance often matches a perceptibly "wilder" spirit.
• Considered the classic prototype of the breed's energetic personality.

Health Comparison

Shared Health Concerns

Both breeds are predisposed to:

• Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD): A genetic anemia. DNA testing is available.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease. DNA testing is available.
• Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps.
• Renal Amyloidosis: A serious kidney disease (more commonly noted in Abyssinians).
• Tooth Resorption: A painful dental condition.

Recommended Health Testing

Average Lifespan

• Abyssinian: 9–15 years
• Somali: 11–16 years

The Somali may have a slightly longer average lifespan, potentially due to the broader genetic foundation established during its development as a separate breed.

Care Requirements Comparison

Grooming Needs

Recommended Grooming Tools:

• For both: A soft bristle brush or rubber curry comb.
• For Somali: A fine-toothed metal comb to reach through the longer undercoat.

Exercise & Enrichment

Critical Needs for Both Breeds:

• Activity Requirement: Very high.
• Multiple interactive play sessions daily (20–30 minutes each).
• Essential vertical space: cat trees, wall shelves, window perches.
• Puzzle feeders and rotating toy selection to combat boredom.

Essential Environmental Enrichment:

• Tall, sturdy cat trees.
• Secure window perches for bird-watching.
• Interactive puzzle toys and feeders.
• Ideally, a feline or human companion for interaction.

Cost Comparison

Initial Acquisition Cost

Note: Somalis typically command a slightly higher price due to their relative rarity.

Estimated Annual Care Costs

Ideal Living Environment

Best Homes for Both Breeds

They Thrive In:

• Active, engaging households.
• Homes where someone is present much of the day.
• Families with other friendly pets for company.
• Spaces with ample vertical climbing opportunities.
• With owners committed to daily interactive play.

They May Struggle In:

• Homes with very long, daily work hours leaving them alone.
• Small apartments without vertical space.
• Extremely quiet, sedentary households.
• With first-time cat owners unprepared for their high energy.
• Environments lacking mental stimulation.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Shared Critical Needs:

• Mental Stimulation: Boredom quickly leads to mischievous or destructive behavior. They can learn to open doors and cabinets.
• Companionship: They are not solitary cats. Pairing them with another pet or ensuring constant human interaction is key to preventing separation anxiety.

Choosing Between Them:

Choose an Abyssinian if you:

• Prefer lower-maintenance grooming.
• Are drawn to the breed's historic, sleek, and wild aesthetic.
• Want a wider selection of reputable breeders.

Choose a Somali if you:

• Love the dramatic, fluffy tail and luxurious coat.
• Don't mind committing to slightly more frequent grooming.
• Desire a more unique or visually striking cat.

Conclusion

The Abyssinian and Somali are fundamentally the same brilliant, energetic cat wrapped in two different coats. Your choice ultimately hinges on grooming preference and visual appeal: the sleek, wild elegance of the Abyssinian or the flowing, fox-tailed grandeur of the Somali.

Both breeds demand significant time, interaction, and environmental enrichment. They are not low-maintenance pets but will reward dedicated owners with unparalleled companionship, intelligence, and entertainment for 12–16 years. The Somali's extra grooming is minimal compared to many other long-haired breeds, making both excellent choices for active individuals or families seeking a truly engaging feline partner.

Further Reading:

• Abyssinian Cat Care: The Complete Guide for 2026
• Somali Cat Care: Essential Tips for a Fluffy Friend
• Best Interactive Toys for High-Energy Cat Breeds
• Creating the Perfect Enriched Environment for Your Cat