The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Longhair

Somali

Long ticked coat with a lean, athletic outline

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Single
Coat length
Long

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want the ticked-coat identity in longhair form often paired with a more active/curious profile

Not ideal

  • Want a low-activity longhair category

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often energetic and engaged—more “always interested” than “nap all afternoon,” especially with enrichment.

Handling & social style

Bonds well through interactive play; handling comfort tends to rise when touch is paired with positive routines.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

An active, clever companion with a plush coat—care is easy physically, but they need daily engagement to stay well-balanced.

Environment & space

Does best with vertical routes, puzzle-style enrichment, and a quiet retreat spot to reset.

Daily routine

Daily interactive play plus brushing a few times weekly helps keep coat tidy and reduce hairballs.

Health sensitivities

Line quality matters—prioritize documented testing practices and clear family history.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

North America

Background

Developed from Abyssinian-type lines to create a consistent longhaired, ticked-coat breed. The defining idea is “Abyssinian look, longer coat,” keeping the ticked identity as the anchor.