Somali cat: a breed with an ideal character

The gorgeous Somali cat breed is renowned for both its captivating appearance and endearing nature. They have stunning, lustrous coats and captivating eyes that make them quite amazing to see. However, what really sets them apart is their endearing nature.

These cats are frequently characterized as being very gregarious, playful, and loving. They take pleasure in participating in family activities and thrive on interaction. A Somali cat will make your home happy and cozy, whether you’re playing with toys or just relaxing together.

Somali cats are renowned for their intelligence and curiosity in addition to their loving disposition. They pick things up quickly and enjoy taking in their surroundings. They are excellent companions for both children and adults because of their playful nature.

The Somali cat is the epitome of beauty and personality for anyone thinking about starting a family. They are a popular option for cat lovers worldwide due to their impeccable character.

History of origin

Long-haired cats are the specialty of the Somali people. They were bred in two different ways. According to one theory, breeder Janet Robertson was one of the breed’s original representatives. She was breeding Abyssinians in the 1940s, but there were also several litters of long-haired kittens born. Janet saw this as a flaw and simply got rid of the "defective" children (selling some and giving some to friends).

The closest relatives of Ethiopian cats are Somali cats.

Evelyn Mague, an American, is the heroine in the second version. The breeder produced fluffy Abyssinians in the 1920s and 1930s. Evelyn’s pets may have inherited some of Janet Robertson’s graduates’ genes, but the American developed an interest in them. She came to the conclusion that crossbreeding caused the fluffiness gene to enter the Abyssinian breed. Many breeders later produced such kittens. Evelyn Mague was an apathetic individual leading an active life at the time, and she oversaw an animal shelter for the homeless. She was the one who named the new breed (after the African nation) and granted her official status.

Seeking recognition for a new breed proved to be extremely challenging for the breeder. The Abyssinians’ admirers and breeders put up a fierce fight because nobody desired rivalry or competition. Nevertheless, the woman was able to register cats from Somalia. After leading the SOMALI SCCA somali breed’s American Club of Connoisseurs for seven years (1972–1973), the breed was officially recognized by one of the country’s oldest CFA associations. Europeans began to appreciate the new breed a little later. Additionally, the International Cat of Cats Fife recognized it in 1982.

Description of the breed

These cats are elegant and small, according to every international body that has authorized the Somali breed’s standards. Due to their appearance, some refer to them as domestic foxes. This breed will appeal to even the most novice of cat enthusiasts. It is thought that a Lisichka cat’s primary benefit is its playfulness and activity.

There are many similarities between the descriptions of Somali and Abyssinian cats.

Appearance

CFA provides a clear description of the Somali breed cat’s appearance. Even though Somalians have medium-sized bodies, they hardly ever weigh more than 4-5 kg. In addition, men are always bigger than women.

The cat’s head is distinct in shape but not overly large. It has a wedge-shaped form. The bite is almost invisible, but the chin is clearly visible. Nor should the mustache pillows get any smaller. These animals have enormous ears. Their narrowing to the base is a defining characteristic. The tips of their ears are brushed by some Somalians.

The eyes of the Somali cat are big, glossy, and almond-shaped. They appear particularly expressive because of the shadowy border surrounding them. The hue of one’s eyes can range from pale yellow to vivid green. Above the eyes, the dark fur strip is displayed as a line that extends to the ears.

The cat has a graceful body. The muscles have good development. The back is arched, and the chest slightly projects forward. The creature’s fluffy tail is roughly the same length as its body, which typically measures no more than 30 cm. The body and limbs are in proportion. Somali cats have small, oval-shaped paws that are strong. The front limbs have five toes, while the back limbs have four.

The small paws and elegant, flexible body give the appearance that the cat is tiptoeing.

Somali cats have very well-groomed, flexible bodies.

Wool is the breed’s primary source of pride and what sets it apart from Abyssinians. In Somalis, it is thick and silky. Cats dressed by nature have less wool on their backs and shoulder blades than on their stomachs. There is an undercoat; it covers the entire body and is thin but dense. Longer hair forms a "collar" on the neck, and pants are found on the animal’s back. Additionally, sideburns are permitted according to the standard. People with hair tufts in between their toes are less common, but they still conform to the norm.

Ticking is a characteristic of somali cats. Each hair has multiple tones (colors) due to this coloring.

Representatives of the breed come in a variety of colors:

Wild (ruddy) – reddish or brownish-red hair with black tips (a dark dorsal belt is required).

Somali red cats have black hair tips and red hair.

Sandy-beige tones are predominant in the "fawn" color (the more uniform the color, the better)

The fur of a blue Somali cat is gray-blue in color, with noticeable light beige markings.

The copper-colored, pinkish fur and hair tips of cats with the "sorrel" color range from red to brown.

The Somali cat’s coat can also be silver, although this is a relatively uncommon shade, in addition to the traditional colors mentioned above.

The color "silver" is defined as having no beige or blue undertones and ranging from white to gray.

Character

Pet owners adore Somali cats because of their gentle and lively nature. They are amiable, gregarious, cheerful, and somewhat aristocratic. Somalis are gregarious, much like Turkish Vans. Even in old age, they both maintain their love of life. They occasionally become discouraged by other pets’ communication, but they do not mind it. For instance, a dog may get so scared of a cat’s sociability that it flees. Yet hostile behavior is extremely uncommon in Somali cats. They will never scuff a visitor or a child.

These kitties are true adventurers. Everything always piques their curiosity. If a new object in the house is not checked, the animal will not lie on the couch. And the Somali will restart after everything has been examined. Since there are toys in every room of the house, the cat will want to be in every room at once. Furthermore, anything can function in this way.

Particular consideration should also be given to these animals’ friendliness. The Somali cat will make an effort to interact with every member of the household, including the parrot, fish, other cats, and family members. She won’t put up with my continuous meowing and screams. However, the owner will be motivated to train his pet because the silent cat is not devoid of intelligence. Furthermore, the happier a cat is to follow all commands, the more interest a person shows in training them.

Such "feedback" is frequently discernible in cats’ behavior. For instance, whenever she senses that I want to play with her, my cat brings me her chicken toy. This typically takes place in the evening following supper. She also feels that I should sit in a chair at this point.

Somali cats make kind and understanding pets.

However, no cat enjoys hostility. If the owner mistreats it (by beating, screaming, etc.), the animal will undoubtedly come to its own conclusions. The Somali cat will not harbor resentment or plot a cunning retaliation; instead, it will temporarily shun human company. The cat is giving; it will forgive the offender and resume its explorations as soon as the atmosphere in the house improves. These cats are more devoted to young children; they will watch them play with their favorite toy or tail with patience.

These cats are very tolerant of both adults and children, and they find it difficult to part from them.

Acquiring a kitten

Anyone wishing to obtain a purebred kitten considers where to search for one of these animals. A lot of people will initially recall the many bulletin boards, both online and off. However, this kind of search might not yield the desired outcome, and you might come across people who are looking for quick cash. Nowadays, Abyssinian cats are bred in numerous catteries across Russia. Furthermore, Somalis will exist wherever there are Abyssinians. particularly since you can only obtain all the required paperwork from a licensed breeder.

Every breeder worth his salt has a website devoted to the selected breed. This could be a fully functional website with a picture gallery of kitten graduates and an integrated forum, or it could just be a social network group. Take your time making a decision. Furthermore, by examining the discovered pages, you can add to your "piggy bank" of experience.

Selection criteria

The most important thing to remember when selecting any cat is to be certain of its lineage. Try to hold the baby in your arms as soon as you see it in the nursery. Look at the animal’s fur; the hue shouldn’t have any icy gray tones to it. Using your fingers, part the fur and look at the hair’s root zones; they shouldn’t be black. There should be no lines other than the dark stripe along the tail and spine. Only in the vicinity of the throat, chin, and nostrils are white spots possible. The color of a true Somali kitten ought to match that of an adult.

Somali kittens and adults share the same color.

A prospective pet should be tidy, well-groomed, and physically fit. Furthermore, the kitten should be energetic and playful. It is best to avoid taking in a scared or aggressive baby because these behaviors are indicators of stress, which can cause behavioral issues.

If it’s feasible, you can also get to know the animal’s parents. The mother of the kitten should also appear well-groomed, friendly, and healthy. There should be a pedigree for both the parents and the kitten. Verifying that these documents are accessible is insufficient; you also need to investigate them. All of the unsuccessful mating outcomes are typically included in the pedigree (if kittens were born with deviations or deformities). It’s possible that the kitten’s progeny will inherit "bad genes" if the cat produced babies in a previous litter with a defect.

My pals own a cat that is purebred. When they talk about their pet, they always (almost indiscernibly) bring up the fact that Count Jack Urfenjus is the cat’s father and the well-known Isidora is its mother. Even though no one has heard of them before, the listeners typically display a meaningful, "understanding" expression on their faces at the same moment. Maybe every producer in the community of breeders knows each other by name.

You can ask the breeder about the conditions of keeping. He should tell what he feeds the cats, what the kitten likes, how the animals use the litter box, etc. . The more questions you ask, the easier it will be for you to take on the role of the owner. This will help you avoid making mistakes in keeping the baby. In addition, any professional breeder is interested in the prosperous fate of the “graduate”.

A happy, active kitten is social and playful.

I’ve heard that you should bring a small amount of the pet’s regular food and a few of its belongings when you purchase a pet from a cattery. In the new home, the kitten ought to discover something comforting and familiar. Consequently, he will find it simpler to adjust to a new setting. Yes, I did once adopt a kitten from the breeders, and they gave me a present. These included mementos, trays, bowls, and even toys for their "graduate."

The age of the kitten, in which it is better to take it

Breeders don’t give kittens away before 12 weeks of age because it’s at this point that the animals receive critical vaccinations that could endanger their lives. For this reason and another, veterinarians wholeheartedly endorse the breeders.

The kitten raises the cat and gets it used to the tray while it is next to it. The young Somalian also looks up to his mother in all that he does. Cats can teach a baby how to use a claw, lick, eat, and play games. He will suffer a serious psychological trauma if you take it too soon. Such a kitten may become resentful or unruly as an adult. When the cat is ready, it will also push the kitten away. This typically occurs between two and three months of age.

When the kitten is taught the fundamentals of living independently, the Somali cat will push the kitten away.

Tell the breeder that you might like to pick up the kitten a little sooner. If the cattery’s owner concurs, you are working with an average breeder rather than a professional one. Such people do not care about preserving the purity of the breed—rather, their objective is to reap financial rewards. You can attempt to "reserve" the Somali if you truly fell in love with it and made the decision to adopt it, even if the breeder disagrees. This is a common practice (though occasionally a deposit is required as a promise that you won’t back out).

Unlike other cats, the Somali cat requires regular walks. Once a week, Somali pet owners typically take their animals for walks in the open air. Additionally, you don’t have to search for a location in your city that is specifically set up for walking cats. This can be done with any open space in the park or roadway where the animal can play. The cat has less room in an apartment for active games, which can be detrimental to its health.

For a walk, your pet must wear a harness and leash; otherwise, they risk running off. Make an effort to keep the animal away from stray cats since they may be carriers of harmful illnesses. Speaking with dogs is also not a good idea. Both of them could get hurt if the dog responds to your Somali in the wrong way.

You can only go on a balcony if it is not possible to arrange a good walk for the pet in a secure location. In this instance, preparation is required (cleare out anything dangerous or superfluous, glaze the windows, etc.).

Walking Somali cats is necessary

The only outdoor space in the apartment building where I reside is the parking lot. I don’t walk my cat outside for that reason. For this, we have a balcony. Naturally, I had to take everything out of there. All I left was a litter box, toys, and a chair (for the cat). I covered the windows with nets.

What to feed your pet

A Somali cat requires good food, just like any other purebred feline. Such a pet can be fed store-bought food or natural food that has been specially prepared for it. You should use the food that the breeder may have advised you to use. Should you abruptly switch the kitten’s diet, it might be suffering from a digestive issue. Furthermore, it might reject unfamiliar food. Additionally, you will have to make the decision if you are unaware of what your Somali was previously fed.

Some guidelines to keep in mind when feeding industrial food are as follows:

• cats prefer wet food (canned food), but dry food is healthier;
• the food should contain at least 40% meat ingredients;
• it is not advisable to mix ready-made food and natural food.

Contrary to popular belief, homemade cat food is not only healthier but also more profitable for cat breeders. First of all, the best items in the diet (which cost more) will need to be prepared separately for the cat’s food. Furthermore, regular household food poses a significant risk to cats. Your pet’s diet needs to be carefully planned because its body is not made like a human’s. You cannot feed it borscht and cutlets.

Inadequate nutrition can cause illness in Somalis.

When it comes to natural nutrition, the diet should be roughly balanced as follows:

• 75% – meat (chicken, turkey, beef, lamb);
• 15-25% – offal, fermented milk products and eggs;
• 0–5% — vegetables and fruits (spinach, cucumber, cabbage, etc. d.);
• additives and vitamins (for example, sprouted grass for cats).

Animal products should make up more than half of the diet. Meat can be served raw (frozen) or boiled. All offal is acceptable (liver excluded), but only in moderation; in other words, the cat’s diet shouldn’t consist solely of chicken gizzards. Additionally, breeders typically feed Somalis chicken wings or necks as meat products, but cats can also be given bones (either chopped chicken or beef). The closest consistency to what cats are accustomed to is this mixture of a meat product and a bone product (small rodents are designed this way).

Fruits and vegetables ought to be the main course for your cat because they are high in vitamins and fiber from plants. Vegetables with a low glycemic index shouldn’t be starchy. For example, if you give your cat too many potatoes, it could get diabetes. Since few people will eat cabbage, there shouldn’t be much of it. Vegetables can be ground, boiled, or combined with any kind of meat product. If your cat occasionally eats fruits or vegetables, you will know exactly what it enjoys. Fish is okay for cats to eat in moderation. Sea fish that is pricey and of superior quality is preferable.

My cat is a huge fan of cucumbers, bananas (the peel, for some reason), and corn (these animals cannot have this product). She occasionally jumps avariciously at green onions. However, I make an effort to curtail these addictions by treating her to small portions of her favorite foods. Additionally, I feed my cat carrots and cabbage (I add them to porridge).

Somali cats shouldn’t have starch on their diet because it is bad for their health.

Pure milk is not recommended for cats due to indigestion; however, fermented milk products are preferred. Fermented baked milk and low-fat kefir are good for the microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract when consumed in moderation. You can also offer low-fat cottage cheese to cats. You can use a particular grass as a dietary supplement. Not only does it contain a large amount of beneficial fiber, but if the cat is not full, it will compensate for the lack of food offered.

Cats should never be offered the following products:

• salted, pickled, smoked and fried;
• fat (including pork, butter, lard, etc. D.);
• sweet;
• liver;
• small bones (such as fish bones) and river fish;
• legumes;
• tea and coffee;
• potatoes, avocado, broccoli, onions, garlic;
• grapes and raisins, as well as nuts;
• mushrooms;
• dog food.

Number of feedings and daily norm

Up to 10% of a Somali’s body weight should be fed to them each day. The following are approximate dosages based on the animal’s weight:

• 2 kg – 150 g;
• 3 kg – 225 g;
• 4 kg – 300 g;
• 5 kg – 375 g;
• 6 kg – 450 g.

We will determine the single dose by dividing the established daily norm by the number of feedings. While older cats typically eat up to 5% of their body weight, young cats and cats in general should eat more than other animal categories (daily intake should be close to 10% of body weight).

In the wild, predators can eat several times a day, but only in small amounts. Your domestic Somali’s natural diet should be fairly natural in order to keep it active and healthy into old age. However, 450 grams, for instance, is very hard to divide into 5 portions since the cat will not eat enough even after receiving 90 grams of food. As a result, experts advise feeding the animal two to three times a day while also considering its unique needs (such as age, appetite, need for food, and energy expenditure).

Overfeeding a Somali cat can lead to obesity

Cat bodies come in a wide variety. A 2-kg cat can consume up to 300 grams of food (15% of its body weight) per day, while a 10-kg cat can reach fullness at 400 grams (4%). A young, agile cat can still grow, while an obese or large cat can simply expend less energy.

Compared to adult cats, kittens receive more feedings. The youngest (till three months old) are fed four to five times a day. Three to six months: three to four times a day; however, the kitten can start to transition into the "adult" mode at six months.

Care for the appearance of a Somali cat

A Somali cat’s appearance requires attention to a number of areas:

1. Brushing teeth once a month (for this you need a special toothpaste and any small toothbrush).
2. Examination and cleaning of ears once a week (you need cotton swabs and any oil or petroleum jelly).
3. Wiping eyes (wipe only the inner corners with a damp cloth).
4. Cutting claws (as they grow).
5. Combing (weekly) and bathing (2 times a year).

Somalis are unpretentious in caring for their appearance

It’s critical to trim your Somali’s claws because he will itch anything he comes across. This is how cats scrape dead skin off the layer covering their claws. This usually affects door frames, wallpaper, and upholstered furniture. You will need to use manicure scissors or a small claw cutter for trimming. It’s crucial to clean the instrument before using it.

Life hack for those whose cat is afraid of claw trimmers. My pet has resigned itself to the fact that I trim the tips of her claws once every 1-2 weeks. She sits calmly on my lap, but I know that she is tense and waiting for the moment to run away. Of course, you can trim the claws on one paw, and tomorrow – on the other, but this will take more time. Besides, I do not want to "stretch" the fear of my pet. My cat has a T-shirt that is too small for her (it is tight for the cat, the T-shirt immobilizes her). I put it on the cat and calmly trim the claws. Some people put a clean sock on the cat"s head (but I think this is not very fair to the pet). Think about it, your pet may also have an "inconvenient" thing.

Combing and bathing

The Somali cat’s fur will always stay glossy if it eats healthily. However, since cat hair cannot grow into long braids like human hair does, combing is still necessary. The hairs should grow back into each other, and since old hairs frequently obstruct the growth of new ones, you must remove extra undercoat hair. Although the Somali coat is generally not prone to tangling and the shiny guard hairs will conceal the undercoat, you should still brush your cat regularly, even if it appears to shed little.

The coat of the Somali cat needs special attention.

Use a comb with many teeth and a brush with natural bristles when combing. Although many people prefer to use a slicker brush to remove extra undercoat hairs, your cat may find this painful (especially if you have no experience). Using a slicker brush to process the cat’s hair will take one to two hours. An additional choice is a trimmer comb (furminator). You must select one with medium-length teeth and a comb.

The cat is used to water procedures since it was a young animal, so this helps to prevent the pet from objecting to bathing. Use only shampoos and conditioners made specifically for pet care when taking a bath. It is preferable to locate a product for cats with semi-long hair if at all possible. The fur can be dried with a hairdryer and towel-blotted after bathing.

My sister’s cat, Ponchik, is dried with a hair dryer. He used to be terrified of noise and vibration, but now he’s acclimated to it and even enjoys it (he closes his eyes). And we got him used to it gradually—we would stroke the cat and give him warm air each time the hairdryer worked. He needed approximately a year to become used to this process.

Video: Somali cat in a bath with water

Somali breed defects

Although Somali cats are thought to be resilient creatures with high immunity, this does not preclude them from becoming ill. For instance, your pet may develop tartar if you do not keep an eye on its oral cavity. Irritation may start if you disregard the recommendation to clean your ears. However, the majority of domestic cats suffer from these illnesses. Furthermore, there are more dangerous illnesses that are genetically ingrained in animals.

Progressive retinal atrophy

Somali cats are commonly affected by progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a condition that results in total blindness.

A mutation identified by a unique gene (CEP290) may exist in Somalis. It is in charge of the production of a faulty protein that causes rods and cones, or photoreceptors, to atrophy. Furthermore, kittens can be sighted at birth and start to become blind around 6-7 months of age. They may totally lose their sight at the age of five.

Electroretinography is a useful diagnostic tool for this disease. Since there is currently no known cure for the pathology, the only thing that matters is prevention: you must use DNA testing to ensure that your Somali cat progeny does not inherit a harmful gene.

Hemolytic anemia

RK-dependent anemia, or hemolytic anemia. Erythrocyte instability is the cause of its occurrence and progression in red blood cells. This phenomenon is seen in cats that are lacking in a particular enzyme that is involved in glycolysis, or the oxidation of glucose. Well-versed breeders are aware of their cats’ genetic makeup, and as a result, they promptly remove them from the breeding program. Failing to do so could result in anemia from the cat’s pregnancy, killing both her and all of her offspring. If your cat has this kind of heredity, you can extend its life, but you will need to give it compensatory therapy on a regular basis.

Certain diseases are not treated by certain veterinarians. When a cat has a disease that is difficult to treat, the owner must contact and make appointments at twelve different veterinary clinics to find a specialist who will take on the cat’s case. The cost of the cat’s care will probably be high for the owner.

Given that Somali cats are predisposed to several genetic illnesses, you should thoroughly research a kitten’s lineage before purchasing one.

Regular veterinary visits and remembering to vaccinate your pet are essential for early disease detection and assistance. Somali owners can create a special cat journal in which they can record important information such as vaccination schedules, dietary guidelines, and even how often their pet should be groomed.

Appearance flaws

It is possible for a Somali kitten to be born slightly outside of the norm. Domestic cat owners might not be concerned about these flaws, but if they intend to enter their cats in exhibitions or championships, even the smallest deviation could cause issues. The following flaws in a Somali cat’s appearance are regarded as defects:

• coarse build;
• short tail;
• heavy head;
• additional fingers on the paws;
• non-descending of the testicles into the scrotum;
• presence of a gray undercoat;
• blurred tone of the coat;
• absence of ticking (each hair is colored evenly and in one color);
• absence of a dark outline around the eyes.

Even though these flaws might not have an impact on the animal’s health or wellbeing, the animal will be disqualified from the championship. As they get older, many of these flaws will become more noticeable even though they are essentially undetectable at an early age. It is vital to keep in mind that the pet’s pedigree must contain such crucial information.

The absence of ticking is the most prevalent flaw in the Somali’s appearance.

Breeding the Somali breed

The rarity of Somali cat births contributes to the high value of the breed’s kittens. Some people are infertile, and healthy people who are of reproductive age have challenges when they become pregnant. You should take full responsibility when it comes to breeding Somalis because of these factors.

A Somali cat’s first heat usually happens around the age of eight months, but the first official mating usually takes place a year later. Infertility may result if the cat is not mated despite being in heat all the time and not being sterilized. Hormonal imbalances affect the animal reproductive system as a whole, which typically results in the development of cysts and polyps (and occasionally leads to oncology).

Typically, the male cat attracts the female, not the other way around. The ideal Somali breed representative must be the mating partner.

Get in touch with the same cattery where you purchased your cat if you are unsure of where to look for a companion for it. Some would rather believe advertisements because they are quicker and less expensive, but this is just regular reproduction rather than breed-specific breeding. Untested cats may not produce healthy kittens, and even those that do will not be able to sell for a high price, be classified as purebred, or take part in future breeding projects.

Immediately after birth, Somali kittens have a high mortality rate. As a result, genetic testing must be done beforehand, ideally prior to the first heat, as this will determine who will be chosen as a partner.

Somali cat breeding is an intricate and labor-intensive process.

The health of a purebred cat will only be jeopardized by the best cat, who wins prizes at exhibitions.

Criteria for choosing a partner

When selecting a mate for a Somali cat, you should follow these guidelines:

• the cat must be outwardly handsome (well-groomed fur, clean eyes, ears and nose);
• the animal"s body should not have wounds, abrasions, scratches;
• the presence of a full veterinary passport (with all vaccinations);
• the presence of a pedigree;
• mating experience.

Any wounds or abrasions on the cat’s body could be a sign of aggression or excessive activity. Such a cat may hurt your naive feline. Furthermore, scratches have the potential to spread infection.

The feline needs to have a pedigree, which is ideal. The only way to be certain that his parents are pure breed representatives is to do this. especially considering that information on all "unsuccessful" kitten births will be included in the pedigree. In this manner, the animal’s good genetics can be guaranteed.

Breeders themselves have been known to inbreed occasionally. For instance, if the father of your cat happens to be a possible partner. He can even mate with his own daughters if he carries good, healthy genes. Healthy kittens with firmly fixed external pedigree data may result from such a mating.

The results of the cats’ DNA tests are already in the hands of professional breeders. So, show the breeder the test results if you have already tested your cat and have them. A true professional will assess your cat’s suitability for the found male right away. Ultimately, a "perfect" female cat is necessary for a "perfect" male cat.

One of the most crucial prerequisites for a possible mate is mating experience.

Ads have caught my eye that offer a male Somali for mating. The candidates’ advertised age of nine months really caught my attention. I wouldn’t even select such a young male for my non-pedigree cat because one or two matings cannot be considered experience.

The most important factor to consider when selecting a Somali for mating is experience. The breeder is probably unaware of the outcome if he gives evasive answers when asked about the quantity and success of matings that have already occurred. A Somali woman finds it challenging to become pregnant. The candidate’s purity is insufficient because her inexperience exacerbates the situation. Granted, a cat can learn this trade from one mating, but it is preferable for him to have multiple offspring that the breeder is proud of.

Never be afraid to seek referrals from previous customers. The breeder will be pleased to brag about the cat if it is truly a good producer.

Strongly tied to the animal’s age and experience. A cat’s natural "fire" and lack of experience increase with age. An older cat won’t hurt or offend a young female; instead, he will be persistent and patient.

At what age to give a pet for the first mating

You are unable to comply with her initial "demand" in spite of the Somali’s early first heat. Unpleasant outcomes can result from pregnancy that occurs too early:

• slow growth and development of the cat;
• birth of weak offspring;
• severe course of the period of gestation and childbirth;
• infertility.

However, early mating can have detrimental effects on animals other than cats. The risk of using a cat as a producer too soon is also present in:

• slow growth and development;
• negative impact on the formation of appearance;
• violations of exterior signs;
• impotence.

After the genitals have fully formed and the body’s main development is complete, a Somali pet should have its first mating. It is only in this situation that you can have excellent progeny without endangering your pet’s health. Somali cats are typically 12 to 14 months old when they are ready for their first mating. Prior to the first mating, seasoned breeders skip two to three estrus cycles.

How often can a Somali cat give birth

Cats are born with the ability to give birth once every three months, or three to four times a year. This is exploited by many dishonest purebred cat owners (which is understandable given the desire to sell as many kittens as possible). But the Somali will become exhausted from too many births, which will be bad for her health. The cat should be given time to recover and regain strength in between births. It is advised by veterinarians and breeders to wait eight to twelve months between matings.

A Somali cat may become ill if she gives birth too frequently.

In terms of breeding, somali cats require particular consideration. A Somali is not the cat for you if all you need it for is to have kittens. This cat may take a while to become pregnant, and even then, she will require special attention. This explains why Somali females are prized higher than Somali males.

Castration and sterilization

An animal’s sex glands are removed during castration and sterilization. It used to be thought that castrating pets was cruel. Some people are still afraid to think of having their pet castrated. But these worries are usually the result of a lack of understanding of the nuances of the situation and unfounded sympathy for their pet. Some owners believe that the animal will undoubtedly gain weight and become lethargic following sterilization or castration. To be honest, this isn’t totally accurate.

Metabolic disorders and poor nutrition cause cats to gain weight. Everything is under the owner’s control. Overweight cats perceive themselves as heavier. These animals tire out more quickly. A fat cat finds it difficult to move its legs at all, much less leap from a chandelier to a closet. If such conduct is connected to castration, it is only through an indirect pathway.

The cat does not always get fat and lethargic after castration.

One more concern of novice pet owners is that their animal companion may develop into a creature of the middle class. But the ovaries and testicles are not the only organs that produce sex hormones. The animal still has its adrenal glands, so your pet’s preferred characteristics will persist due to the hormonal background.

It is advised that all Somali cats who are not engaged in breeding undergo these procedures. That is, you cannot make your cat endure estrus if you do not intend for her to produce children. This will kill your pet (a cat can become ill from not eating), so you will have to operate on her or allow her to give birth. Cats are operated on because they exhibit odd behavior from abstinence, misbehaving, and marking walls (yes, cats can do this too).

Video: castration of cats – pros and cons of the operation

Care for a Somali cat after surgery

Postoperative care can take up to two weeks, even if the procedure itself only takes 15 to 20 minutes. The post-operative days are particularly challenging. The animal might appear drowsy and lethargic. Aggression may be mixed with this. Don’t panic if the cat runs toward you or, the other way around, runs away. Recognize that the cat is going through a hormonal reconstruction and that it is experiencing physical discomfort in addition to its behavior. The cat will recover from anesthesia (waking up, then falling back asleep) during the first twelve hours following the procedure. Usually not hungry at this time of day, but there may be a rise in thirst.

You must keep the cat from engaging in excessive activity for a week. It is preferable to stop her from running off. If your pet has a house, soft bedding should be placed on the bottom of it. You must monitor the cat while she sleeps because if she throws up, she could choke. This is not the time to go for a walk with the cat. Additionally, make an effort to keep kids away from the animal (the cat needs peace). Remove any blankets or Elizabethan collars that the veterinary surgeon applied to the cat only with the doctor’s approval.

Even though the cat might have had dried blood on its fur during the procedure, you should never wash it. Even lightly wiping a small area of the abdomen is not advised. The cat will lick everything on her own once she gains strength. To prevent infections, you should also clean the tray after every visit. You can use paper in place of filler for convenience.

Following the procedure, the animal should receive lots of love and care.

Some cats and cats sleep with their eyes open after anesthesia. This is considered normal, but can scare the owners. To prevent the pet"s eyes from drying out, you can put a drop of a special solution in their corners (the veterinarian will tell you which drops are right for your cat). In addition, you need to take care of the animal"s recovery through food and drinking. If the cat refuses to drink, you can pour water directly into its mouth using a pipette. Already about 12 hours after the operation, you can offer the animal food. At first, the pet may refuse, but to awaken the appetite, you can give it some kind of treat (just a drop, just to lubricate the gums).

Some give the cat a cotton swab to lick that has been dipped in sugar syrup.

All you have to do the rest of the time is keep an eye on the animal’s health. Complications can occasionally take a week or two to manifest. The following symptoms could be indicative of them:

• bleeding from the genitals or reddish urine;
• sleep lasting many hours in a row;
• for several days the animal refuses food and water;
• unsteady gait or limping;
• swelling of the muzzle;
• diarrhea, vomiting;
• breathing problems;
• severe pain (they can be identified by the cat"s reaction to palpation), itching;
• an unpleasant odor coming from the suture or the suture is hot to the touch;
• severe redness or discharge of fluid (exudate) from the suture;
• increased salivation.

The pet needs to be seen by the veterinarian right away if at least one of the symptoms listed above manifests.

There are times when you really need to give the vet a call, but you don’t always have the correct number on you. Doing web searches or attempting to make a landline phone call only wastes time and increases anxiety. The number of our veterinarian is inscribed on a piece of paper that is "magnetized" to the fridge. Even when it is far past midnight, the veterinarian always answers this mobile number. Additionally, I have the contact information for on-call vet clinics in case I unexpectedly can’t make it home and the cat becomes seriously ill.

Table: pros and cons of the Somali breed

Characteristics	Pros of the breed	Cons of the breed
Pet"s appearance	Beautiful, compact cats with a fluffy tail and shiny fur	Sometimes it is difficult to detect a discrepancy with the breed standard due to the complex coloring of the hairs
Animal"s character	A very active animal, playful until old age, inquisitive and friendly	Some cats, due to their affection for the owner, seem too intrusive, there are also individuals who can "take revenge"
Pet"s health	Good health, strong immunity	There is a genetic predisposition to a number of difficult-to-treat and incurable diseases (blindness, anemia, etc. d.)
Breeding	A cat can give birth up to 4 times a year, bringing up to 6 kittens in one litter	It is difficult to find a suitable partner, when choosing one, you have to take into account the genetics of the related line. Difficulty with mating: it is difficult for a cat to get pregnant, there are even completely sterile individuals
Kitten price	A kitten without a pedigree and other documents can be found for 5,000 rubles	A purebred kitten with a pedigree, passport and famous titled parents can cost more than 25,000 rubles
Keeping a cat	Somali cats eat a little, almost do not shed, the fur does not fall into tangles, they are clean	You need to be strict about the cat"s diet, comb it up to 2-3 times a week and regularly visit the veterinarian

Feature	Description
Temperament	Affectionate and playful, Somali cats enjoy interacting with their owners.
Intelligence	They are highly intelligent, often learning tricks and commands quickly.
Activity Level	Somali cats are energetic and love to explore their surroundings.
Socialization	They thrive on companionship and do well with families or other pets.
Grooming	Their short, soft coat requires minimal grooming but benefits from regular brushing.
Health	Generally healthy, but regular vet check-ups are essential for their well-being.

The Somali cat is unique not only because of its eye-catching look but also because of its endearing nature. Reputably gregarious and loving, these cats are drawn to people and other people’s company. They grow to be treasured family members rather than just pets.

The playful nature of the Somali is one of its most endearing characteristics. These energetic cats enjoy playing games, which makes them a pleasure to be around—especially for families with young children. They keep everyone entertained because of their intelligent and inquisitive nature, which makes them eager for every new experience.

Somali cats are renowned for their adaptability in addition to their playful nature. They are adaptable to a wide range of living conditions, including both quiet and busy homes. Because of their adaptability, they are good companions for a variety of owners.

In the end, the Somali is a great option if you’re searching for a cat that combines intelligence, beauty, and a kind disposition. Because of their special combination of attributes, they are ideal for people looking for a devoted and interesting pet.

Somali cats are praised for having the ideal balance of cuddles, intelligence, and playfulness, which makes them the perfect companion for both individuals and families. Somali cats, who have captivating looks and vibrant personalities, love to interact with people and are renowned for developing close relationships with them. Pet lovers adore this breed because of their inquisitive and amiable nature, which guarantees that they will bring happiness and coziness to any home.

Video on the topic

Somali cat #cats #kitten #pets #purebredkittens #cats

LUXURIOUS CATS: PRESENTATION OF THE BREED. SOMALI CAT

Somali cat. CATSBURG 2025.

Somali cat: Video about the incredible breed and their character

Somali rare breed of kittens

Somali Cat, description, character, Cat breeds

Somali cat: breed description and character