So today, we’re going to take a closer look at the Somali cat and what makes them so special. Stay tuned for some interesting facts about these beautiful creatures!
Somali Cat – History of the Breed
The Somali cat is a breed that is of African origin and has been around for centuries. They are known for their long, flowing coats that come in a variety of colors, including ruddy, red, blue, and fawn.
They originate from the Horn of Africa, where they were used as working cats. They were prized for their ability to hunt rats and other rodents. These cats are also known for their ability to withstand hot weather conditions.
In The United States, they were initially bred as a show cat, but soon became popular as a pet. They are currently the 16th most popular breed of cat in the United States.
The Somali cat was first recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1967. They are still a relatively rare breed, but they are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique appearance and personality.
Somali Cat – Breed Characteristics, Temperament
Somalis are very active cats and love to play. They are also very interactive and enjoy spending time with their owners. Somali cats are known for their intelligence and curiosity, and often find ways to get into trouble. However, they are also very loving and affectionate, making them a great choice for families with children.
Somalis require a lot of attention and love, and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They are also very vocal cats and will often talk to their owners. Somali cats are a great choice for anyone looking for a loving, intelligent companion cat.
They are active and playful, and they enjoy playing fetch and chasing laser pointers. They are also good climbers, and they love to explore their surroundings. Somali cats are typically good with other animals and children.
Somali Cat – Physical Characteristics
Somali cats are medium to large in size, with males typically being larger than females. They have long, slender bodies and legs, and their coats can be black, blue, red, or silver-tipped. They have distinctive facial features, including a prominent forehead and large ears. Their height ranges from 7 to 11 inches, and their weight ranges from 8 to 12 pounds. They have a lifespan of 11 to 16 years. Their tails are long and bushy, and their coats are thick and full.
Somali is somehow similar to Abyssinian cat, mostly thanks to the color of the fur and the face shape. Somali cats, however, usually are long-haired, while Abyssinians have a shorter coat. Somali cats also have more bushy tails, and that’s why they are sometimes called a “fox cat”.
How to Train a Somali Cat Breed
Training a longhaired Somali can be a bit challenging, as they are very active and independent. But with patience and persistence, you can train your Somali to be a well-behaved and obedient cat.
The first step in training a Somali is to establish yourself as the dominant member of the household. Somali cats are naturally independent and can be very stubborn, so you need to show them who is in charge. Be consistent with your commands and rewards, and don’t let them get away with bad behavior.
The next step is to start training your Somali basic commands. Some basic commands you can teach your cat include sit, stay, come, and leave it. Be sure to reward your cat with a treat or praise when they respond correctly to a command.
One of the most important things to remember when training a Somali is to be patient. They can be a bit stubborn at times, so you need to be persistent in your training.
How to Groom a Somali Cat
Somali cats are known for their long, flowing coats. Grooming your Somali regularly is essential to keeping her coat healthy and looking its best. Fortunately, grooming a Somali cat is relatively easy. Here are the steps:
- Start by brushing your cat’s coat with a metal brush. This will help remove any mats or tangles.
- Next, use a flea comb to remove any fleas or ticks.
- Finally, give your cat a bath using a gentle shampoo. Be sure to rinse her coat thoroughly afterwards.
Don’t forget about her ears and claws! Check her ears for dirt, wax, or mites, and trim her claws every few weeks.
Grooming your Somali cat regularly is an important part of keeping her healthy and looking her best. By following these simple steps, you can keep your feline friend looking healthy and shiny.
Somali Cat’s Exercise Needs
Like all cats, Somali cats need exercise. They need at least one hour of activity every day. This can include playing with toys, chasing a laser pointer, or climbing around. Somali cats also enjoy scratching posts and being groomed. Providing your Somali cat with plenty of opportunities for exercise will help keep them healthy and happy! A Somali who doesn’t get enough exercise can become overweight and lazy.
Somali Cat’s Dietary Needs
Like all cats, Somali cats need a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. They also need plenty of fresh water and access to a litter box. Somali cats typically eat dry food, but they can also enjoy wet food and treats. It’s important to provide them with a variety of foods to ensure that they get the nutrients they need.
Somali cats are known for their love of food, so it’s important to keep an eye on their weight. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause health problems. It’s important to feed Somali cats the right amount of food and to make sure they get plenty of exercise.
Somali Cats – Common Health Concerns
The first thing you should know about Somali cats is that they are prone to developing diabetes, so they should be tested regularly with blood sugar meters and insulin injections as needed. Another common health concern for Somali cats is obesity. These cats are prone to overeating and becoming overweight. This is because their bodies are designed for colder climates in which they need to store fat so that they can survive the winter without starving.
Another problem in this breed are eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts. These issues can develop in any breed of cat, but Somali cats seem more susceptible because their eyes may not open as wide as other breeds due to their short noses and small eye openings.
The most common health concern, however, are dental problems. Somali cats often need to have their teeth cleaned by the vet, which can be expensive. They also need to be brushed regularly to prevent tartar buildup and tooth decay. Last but not least, these dogs are also prone to pyruvate kinase deficiency – a condition that can lead to anemia.
Where to Buy a Somali Kitten
The price of the Somali kitten ranges from $200 to $800. There are many factors that go into pricing such as the breeder’s location, quality of the kitten, and availability. You should research the breeder before buying a kitten because there are many things you need to consider when buying one.
As with any animal, it is important to do your research before buying a Somali kitten. There are many factors to consider when choosing a breeder: where they live, the number of cats they have, and their reputation. These factors will help you decide if the breeder is reputable and whether or not you want to buy from them.
Some questions to ask yourself before purchasing a Somali kitten are:
- Are there too many cats in the breeder’s home?
- Is the breeder’s home clean?
- Is this person knowledgeable about their cats?
- Does the breeder seem trustworthy?
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