The Somali is a breathtaking cat that resembles a red fox, with its large tufted ears, masked face, large neck ruff and dramatically bushy tail. Also known as the Fox Cat or the Longhaired Abyssinian, the Somali is medium-sized and muscular, with well-balanced proportions and an overall sleek, athletic build. Its legs are long, slender and fine-boned, and when standing it appears to be on its tip-toes. The Somali’s head is wedge-shaped and slender when viewed head-on, with soft contours and a gentle curve when viewed in profile. It has a slight but distinct break, or stop, in the nose at the level of its exotic, almond-shaped eyes. Ideally, the Somali’s rich copper, amber, gold or green eyes are ringed with a dark outline, which itself is surrounded by a ring of lighter fur, giving it the appearance of wearing eyeliner. The breed’s prominent pricked ears are tufted at the tips and spaced widely apart atop the head.

The Somali is one of the most playful, extroverted and interactive of all domestic breeds. Although they usually are not quite as outgoing as their Abyssinian cousins, potential Somali owners should be prepared to create a very stimulating and ever-changing environment for their new companions. If kept exclusively indoors (which most are), the Somali should have access to lots of interesting toys and a variety of different scratching posts and climbing structures. Toys, posts and climbing structures should be changed or moved around regularly, to prevent boredom. Otherwise, the Somali undoubtedly will find other ways to entertain itself, which its owners may not appreciate. Somalis do not take well to being confined indoors unattended for prolonged periods of time. Along with a playful nature, the Somali thrives on affection and attention from its owner. They are highly interested in everything and everyone around them. These cats form close bonds with their human family, and when they do take a rest from playtime they greatly enjoy cuddling and lots of lap time. Somalis are not particularly well-suited to homes with many other companion animals, because they prefer that all the available attention be directed towards them. All in all, this is a charming, cheeky breed with a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed disposition, making them wonderful companions for cat lovers of all ages.