How to Select a Somali

The Somali resembles an Abyssinian, but has long hair and a bushy tail - a trait that engendered the nickname the "fox cat." In the 1960's they were considered a breeding "mistake," but quickly became an accepted breed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Small Cat Brushes
• Cat Carriers
• Cat Litters
• Litter Boxes

1. Find a responsible breeder who will guarantee that your Somali is in good health. Somalis need a special "PCV" blood test (not normally done on all cats - see warnings).

2. Expect to pay between $400 and $600 for a pet-quality Somali. Show cats can cost $1,000 or more.

3. Pick up and hold the kitten to check for good muscle tone.

4. Make sure she's not sneezing or sniffling, that her eyes have no discharge and her ears are clean and pink inside.

5. Look at and feel the kitten's fur, which should be dense, soft, and ticked like a wild cat's. Bald patches or dry, flaky skin, can be signs of illness.

6. Look for fleas behind her ears and at the base of the tail. Flea dirt, which looks like black sand, is a sure sign.

7. Take your Somali to your own veterinarian right away to confirm that she's healthy.

8. Take a Somali kitten home no younger than 16 weeks of age.

Tips & Warnings

• Somali breeders are relatively rare and they often have waiting lists for kittens.
• Somalis are available in blue, fawn, red (sorrel), and ruddy colors. In Europe they're more commonly available in silver tones, but many associations in the U.S. don't accept this color for showing.
• Somalis can be trained to do simple tricks such as fetch and shake hands, but are known to be willful. Experts suggest rewards will be more effective than punishment during training.
• Regardless of their long fur, the Somali's coat doesn't shed a lot and needs little special attention. An occasional brushing should keep fur mat-free.
• Somalis are personable, and playful (although a bit less active than the Abysinnian), and will like to snooze on your lap.
• Keep your Somali inside - although many books say a Somali is happier outside, you cat will be just as content and less likely to be injured or acquire a disease if kept inside. Another cat with with a similar high-activity level and lots of room to run and play will help.
• Like many breeds, Somalis are prone to gingivitis - bad breath and red gums are symptoms. High-quality food, weekly brushings, and annual visits to the vet can help prevent it.