Somali Cat: Nutrition and Characteristics
The Somali cat is a variant of the Abyssinian. It belongs to the semi-longhair cats and was first bred in the USA. Concerning its character and its requirements for keeping the Somali cat is very similar to its short-haired relatives.
History of the Somali cat
The Somali cat is a semi-longhaired cat, which developed from longhaired specimens of the actually short-haired Abyssinian cat. Because the long coat did not correspond to the breed standard, these animals were initially excluded from breeding.
However, from 1967 on, the USA started to breed the long-haired Abyssinians in order to develop a new cat breed. The first complete litter of Somali cats was born in 1972 and the breed was officially recognized in the USA in 1979.
The FiFé recognizes the Somali cat as an independent cat breed since 1982. Meanwhile the Somali cat is bred in numerous countries. Compared to its short-haired ancestors it is still relatively unknown.
Appearance of the Somali cat
Size and physique of the Somali cat resemble essentially its short-haired relatives. Accordingly, females weigh up to four kilograms, while males can reach a weight of about five kilograms.
The Somali cat has a muscular yet slender body and rather long legs with small, oval paws. It is medium-sized, has a slender neck and a slightly wedge-shaped head.
The ears of the Somali cat are wide apart. Their large eyes are almond-shaped. They shall have a strong colour and can be either yellow, green or amber.
The coat of the Somali cat
The medium-long coat is the characteristic in which the Somali cat differs from the Abyssinian cat. It is very dense and fine. When touched it feels soft. At the shoulders the coat of the Somali cat may be slightly shorter. Animals with panties on the legs as well as a distinctive ruff are especially welcome.
Beside wild colours the colours blue, sorrel and fawn are generally accepted. In addition, some Somali cats are also bred in the colours chocolate and lilac. Just like its shorthaired relatives the coat of the Somali cat shows the characteristic ticking, which is fully developed with about two years.
Character of the Somali cat
The Somali cat is an active quadruped. It possesses enormous jumping power and great stamina. Nevertheless she is very affectionate and appreciates cuddling with her owner.
The Somali cat usually proves to be uncomplicated in dealing with dogs and children living in the household. However, it is only suitable for working people to a limited extent. If she should stay alone for a longer time, at least the purchase of a second cat is recommended.
Keeping and care of the Somali cat
If you decide to buy a Somali cat, you should be aware that the cat needs a lot of exercise and occupation. Especially if you keep your cat indoors, suitable cat toys and possibilities for climbing should not be missing.
If the local conditions allow it, the Somali cat should nevertheless get the opportunity to satisfy its curiosity and its urge to move in a cat-safe garden.
The coat of the Somali cat proves to be relatively easy to care for despite its length. Normally, occasional brushing is sufficient to support the fur care of the four-legged friend. However, if the cat is in a change of coat, it is advisable to use the brush more often.
Somali cat diseases
The Somali cat is generally regarded as robust and healthy. Besides common cat diseases, such as cat cold, there are some hereditary diseases for which there is at least a certain risk.
Owners of a Somali cat should pay particular attention to the following genetic diseases:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Renal amyloidosis (RA)
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK)
Furthermore, inbreeding can sometimes be a problem in Somali cats. Therefore, when buying a cat, it is important to stick exclusively to reputable breeders who care about the welfare of the animals.
The life expectancy of the Somali cat
Normally the life expectancy of the Somali cat is about 12 to 15 years. However, animals affected by inbreeding often live much shorter. This is also true for Somali cats, which have to live with bad keeping conditions and insufficient feeding.
The right food for the Somali cat
Although the Somali cat does not have any special demands on its food, a need-based diet is essential for a long and healthy cat life. Besides the right amount of food for the respective cat it is especially important to consider the composition of the cat food.
With cat food from I love my cat, you are choosing species-appropriate products with a particularly high content of valuable animal proteins. Both our dry and wet food for cats is free of grain and other unsuitable ingredients, so that a balanced diet for your Somali cat is no problem.
If required, the following food supplements and care products can also be useful for your Somali cat:
- Shiimun Immun supports the defences of your four-legged friend with additional nutrients.
- Dental Powder enables a reliable care of the teeth of your Somali cat.
- Kidney Power Powder promotes the natural detoxification activity of the kidneys with selected herbs.
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