The Abyssinian and the Somali are closely related, yet they offer distinct experiences for cat owners. One is a sleek, short-haired athlete, while the other is a long-haired, "fox-like" companion. This guide explores their shared history, unique traits, and care requirements to help you decide which breed best fits your lifestyle.
Origins and History
Abyssinian Origins
The Abyssinian is one of the oldest known cat breeds. Contrary to what its name suggests, genetic research published in 2008 by Lipinski et al. in Genomics and corroborated by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) placed the breed's origins in coastal areas of the Indian Ocean and in parts of Southeast Asia — not in Ethiopia itself. The name "Abyssinian" simply reflects that the first cats exhibited in England were reportedly imported from Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia).
Key Historical Facts:
- First exhibited at London's Crystal Palace in 1871; Harper's Weekly described "Zula," imported by Lt. General Sir Robert Napier after the Abyssinian War, in its January 27, 1872 issue.
- Named after Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia).
- "Zula" is the first documented Abyssinian cat.
- Prized for its natural, wild-looking ticked tabby pattern.
- The Abyssinian was among the original breeds registered with the CFA in 1906.
Somali Origins
The Somali is the long-haired version of the Abyssinian, resulting from a recessive long-hair gene carried silently within bloodlines for generations. According to the CFA, long-haired kittens appeared sporadically in Abyssinian litters for decades and were largely dismissed until the 1960s, when a small group of breeders began working with them intentionally.
Development Timeline:
- Long-haired kittens appeared sporadically in Abyssinian litters; the first known longhair, "Raby Chuffa of Selene," was recorded in North America in 1953.
- Initially dismissed or quietly "petted out" by breeders until the 1960s.
- U.S. breeder Evelyn Mague championed the long-haired cats in the mid-1960s and coined the name "Somali" — a nod to Somalia, which borders Ethiopia.
- CFA began registering Somalis in 1976 and gained full championship status in 1979.
Physical Appearance Comparison
Size and Build
| Feature | Abyssinian | Somali |
|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Lithe, muscular, athletic | Lithe, muscular, athletic |
| Bone Structure | Fine but remarkably strong | Fine but remarkably strong |
| Typical Weight | 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) | 6–10 lb (2.7–4.5 kg) |
Coat Characteristics
| Aspect | Abyssinian | Somali |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Short to medium | Medium to long |
| Texture | Soft, silky, close-lying | Exceptionally soft, fine, double-coated |
| Shedding | Minimal year-round | Moderate; heavier during seasonal coat blow |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate to High (higher during shedding season) |
The Ticked Tabby Pattern: Each hair is banded with multiple colors, creating a warm, "agouti" or wild appearance without distinct stripes or spots.
A note on seasonal shedding: Somalis are double-coated and undergo a pronounced spring and fall "coat blow," during which the soft undercoat loosens and comes out in noticeable clumps. Owners who brush only once a week can be caught off guard by tumbleweeds of undercoat during these two-to-three-week windows; stepping up to two or three short combing sessions during peak blow keeps the coat manageable and reduces hairballs.
Head and Facial Features
Shared Facial Features:
- Modified wedge-shaped head.
- Large, alert, and expressive ears.
- Almond-shaped eyes in gold, green, or hazel.
Somali Distinctions:
- Fuller ruff around the neck and "breeches" on the hind legs.
- A magnificent, plumed fox-like tail.
Personality and Temperament
Shared Core Traits
Both breeds are celebrated for being high-energy cat breeds who are:
- Agile climbers: They love heights.
- Intelligence: Problem-solvers who explore everything.
- Playfulness: They remain kitten-like well into adulthood.
- Social Nature: Bond strongly with their human families.
Breed-Specific Differences
The Abyssinian Personality:
- Independent: Confident and self-assured.
- Busybody: Constantly in motion with lightning-fast reflexes.
- Reserved: Can be initially aloof with strangers.
A clinical note: In my exam room, the classic Abyssinian patient is one whose owner describes "behavioral problems" — curtain climbing, counter surfing, and midnight "parkour." Almost without exception, the cause isn't a behavior disorder but unmet environmental needs. Tall cat trees, daily wand-toy sessions, and food puzzles resolve more behavior complaints in this breed than any medication. — Dr. Sarah Mitchell, DVM
The Somali Personality:
- People-Oriented: More likely to seek out cuddles and lap time.
- Gentle: Often described as having a "softer" presence.
- Social: Typically more welcoming to visitors.
Grooming and Care Requirements
Low Maintenance: Abyssinian
- Brushing: Once a week (often less, since weekly grooming is largely for bonding and shine rather than necessity).
- Shedding: Minimal year-round.
- Monthly Time: ~1 hour.
Moderate Maintenance: Somali
- Brushing: 2–3 times per week to prevent tangles; daily during the spring and fall coat blow.
- Shedding: Moderate, with noticeable seasonal increases.
- Monthly Time: ~2–3 hours (more during shedding season).
A clinical note: The most common Somali grooming concern I hear in practice isn't matting — it's owners surprised by the undercoat shedding. A stainless-steel comb reaches what a slicker brush leaves behind, and a single weekly session is normally plenty outside of coat blow. — Dr. Sarah Mitchell, DVM
Health and Lifespan
Average Lifespan: 11–16 years (PetMD), with many well-cared-for individuals reaching the higher end of that range.
Common Health Considerations:
- Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKDef): A hereditary hemolytic anemia caused by a recessive mutation in the PKLR gene (Wikipedia: Somali cat; Wikipedia: Abyssinian cat). A simple DNA test identifies carriers and affected cats, and responsible breeders test both parents before mating.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye disorder caused by mutations in CEP290 (late-onset) and CRX (early-onset); carriers should not be bred (Wikipedia: Abyssinian cat).
- Renal Amyloidosis: A familial kidney disorder seen more frequently in Abyssinians than in the general cat population (Wikipedia: Abyssinian cat).
- Dental Issues: Gingivitis is common in both breeds; daily tooth brushing dramatically reduces risk.
A clinical note: I recommend a baseline DNA panel — PKDef, PRA (rdAc / CEP290 / CRX), and blood typing — for any new Abyssinian or Somali kitten regardless of how reputable the breeder seems. The cost is modest, and it gives you a lifelong prevention roadmap. — Dr. Sarah Mitchell, DVM
Cost of Ownership
| Category | Abyssinian | Somali |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200–$2,800 | $1,800–$2,500 |
| Monthly Upkeep | ~$110–$190 | ~$115–$195 |
Purchase prices sourced from PetMD's Abyssinian breed guide and PetMD's Somali breed guide, the latter citing TICA's Somali breed committee. Monthly upkeep figures are typical estimates covering food, litter, routine veterinary care, and insurance; actual costs vary by region, lifestyle, and insurance coverage.
Exercise and Play Needs
- Abyssinian: Requires minimum 30–45 minutes of vigorous play. Mental stimulation via puzzle feeders is essential.
- Somali: Needs 20–30 minutes of engaged play. They prefer interactive games with their favorite human.
Pros and Cons Summary
Abyssinian: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Low grooming, highly intelligent, sleek look.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming energy, prone to boredom without enrichment.
Somali: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Stunning plumed tail, affectionate, gentle nature.
- Cons: Higher grooming commitment during seasonal coat blow, higher price tag.
Final Decision Guide
Choose an Abyssinian If:
- You prefer a low-maintenance, short coat.
- You want an independent, "always-on-the-go" athlete.
- You have plenty of vertical climbing space and time for daily play sessions.
Choose a Somali If:
- You want a luxurious, long-haired companion.
- You desire a "velcro" cat that enjoys lap time.
- You can commit to regular brushing (and extra sessions during the spring and fall coat blow).