The Somali is best described as a long haired version of the Abyssinian and its colouring and beautiful bushy tail give it a fox-like appearance.

It is a medium sized cat, graceful and well-muscled, with eyes that are big and almond-shaped and full of expression.

The coat is not as long as in the Persian, and its silky texture means it is less likely to mat, but it still must be groomed regularly.

Each hair has many band of black of chocolate brown ticking. The four basic coat colours are tawny, cinnamon (sorrel), blue and beige-fawn, plus these four colours in the silver range. It takes along time for the beautiful richly coloured coat to develop fully; kittens are born very dark and only achieve a fully ticked, ruddy brown or reddish colouring at about 18 months old.

The Somali's nature is vigorous, athletic and playful and curious. They are even-tempered and easy to handle and ideal for gentle children. They are very quiet cats with a soft voice which they don't use a great deal.

For those who want a 'party animal' who enjoys people and games the Somali is an ideal choice.