Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Somali cat appeared as a result of a natural mutation in the Abyssinian breed line, expressed through longer, denser fur. The first carriers of this trait were noted in the United Kingdom and Canada in the mid-20th century, but systematic breeding began in the United States in the 1960s. Breeders, impressed by the cat’s elegant appearance and “fox-like” coloring, established the breed under the name Somali to highlight its exotic connection to Africa—though it has no direct geographical link to Somalia. The breed was later recognized by major international feline organizations, maintaining its close relationship to the Abyssinian while standing out with its plush tail, soft coat texture, and rich color.
General Appearance
The Somali cat gives the impression of a harmonious, elegant, and graceful medium-sized cat with well-proportioned conformation. The body is muscular yet refined, slightly elongated, with smooth lines and strong development. The neck is of medium length; the head has a softly contoured wedge shape with distinct outlines. The ears are large, alert, often with tufts that give a wild expression. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, expressive, and deeply colored. The tail is long, bushy, and reminiscent of a fox’s tail. The semi-long coat is silky, fine, and ticked, lying smoothly against the body with a natural sheen. Overall, the Somali cat appears active, refined, and noble.
Important Proportions
All body parts must be in harmonious balance. The head should be proportionate to the body, forming a soft wedge that transitions smoothly into the neck. The ears are large but not exaggerated, complementing the expressive eyes and head shape. The body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers, emphasizing elegance. Limbs are medium in length, slender, with oval paws, and proportionate to the body. The tail is long and fluffy, making up at least two-thirds of the body length. The semi-long coat should be evenly distributed without obscuring the body lines. The ideal Somali is elegant but sturdy, refined yet strong.
Temperament and Character
The Somali cat is lively, playful, and highly social. It is friendly, active, and enjoys participating in family life, quickly forming bonds with people. Intelligent and curious, it learns quickly and adapts well to new environments. Somali cats love interactive play, get along well with children and other pets, and remain balanced and gentle. Their temperament combines liveliness with calm affection, making them ideal companions who are both graceful and devoted.
Head
The head is of medium size, proportional to the body, softly contoured, forming a gently modified wedge with smooth transitions. The skull is slightly rounded, the forehead gently curved, and the cheekbones moderately defined. The nose is straight with a slight indentation at the bridge, while the chin is firm and aligns vertically with the nose tip. The overall expression of the head conveys intelligence and a touch of wild elegance.
Muzzle
The muzzle is slightly rounded and well-defined, with a firm chin that is neither weak nor coarse. The whiskers are long and flexible, enhancing expression. The nose is medium in length, straight, and harmoniously integrated into the facial profile. The overall facial balance creates an open, intelligent, and alert expression typical of the breed’s “fox-like” look.
Eyes
The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and slightly slanted, set wide apart but not extreme. They must be bright, expressive, and full of life. Acceptable colors include green, amber, or golden, with preference for pure, vivid tones. A dark outline accentuates the eyes, adding definition and intensity. The Somali’s gaze should reflect intelligence, liveliness, and warmth.
Ears
The ears are large, broad at the base with rounded tips, set high and alert, slightly tilted forward to create an attentive, wild look. Inner fur is present, and ear tufts are desirable. The ears must balance the head without appearing too large or small, reinforcing the breed’s graceful and alert expression.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, elegant, and smoothly connects the head to the body. Musculature is well-developed but not heavy. The shape enhances the Somali’s noble and refined silhouette, with a soft mane effect from the semi-long coat.
Body
The body is medium in length, muscular yet refined, with a slightly arched back and rounded chest. The sides are smooth and balanced, shoulders and hips of equal width. The silhouette should convey agility and fluidity, with visible strength beneath elegant lines.
Tail
The tail is long, bushy, and well-furnished, resembling a fox’s tail. It should harmonize with the body and taper gracefully toward the tip. The hair is soft and full, creating a feathered look that adds to the breed’s charm. The tail should be carried high during movement, emphasizing confidence and vitality.
Forelegs
The forelegs are slender, of medium length, straight and proportionate. The bone structure is fine yet firm, with strong, flexible muscles. Paws are oval, compact, with tufts between the toes. The legs should appear elegant but stable, providing agility and balance.
Hind Legs
The hind legs are strong and slightly longer than the forelegs, giving the body a poised, upward line. The thighs are muscular but not coarse, and the joints are firm and correctly aligned. The paws are oval and compact. Hind leg structure contributes to the cat’s jumping ability and graceful movement.
Gait and Movement
Movement is light, springy, and flowing. The Somali cat moves with grace and precision, maintaining perfect balance and rhythm. Steps are elastic and smooth, reflecting agility and vitality.
Coat
The Somali coat is semi-long, fine, soft, and silky, lying close to the body. The mane and breeches are well developed, adding volume and beauty. The hallmark of the breed is the ticking—each hair has alternating light and dark bands, creating a shimmering, warm tone. The coat should shine naturally and emphasize the cat’s wild elegance.
Accepted Colors
Allowed colors include ruddy, sorrel, blue, and fawn, all warm and rich with clearly defined ticking. Each hair should show at least three color bands. The undercoat is lighter on the chest, belly, and inner limbs. The eye rims, lips, and nose leather must be well defined, with no white patches.
Size
Somali cats are medium in size. Females typically weigh 3–4.5 kg, males 4–6 kg. The proportions emphasize balance and elegance—an elongated body, medium legs, and a long, full tail. Cats should appear lithe yet muscular, never heavy or frail.
Faults
Faults include coarse or angular head shape, short or elongated muzzle, small or round eyes, weak chin, disproportionate body or limbs, thin or poorly furnished tail, rough or short coat, lack of ticking, or uneven coloration. White patches or tabby markings on the body are not acceptable. Nervous or aggressive temperament is also considered a fault.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying faults include structural deformities (asymmetrical skull, extreme head shape), strabismus, heterochromia, tail kinks, polydactyly, absence of ticking, solid or spotted coat, and unapproved white markings. Behavioral issues such as extreme aggression or fear are also grounds for disqualification. Cats without official ICCF documentation confirming origin are not eligible for shows or breeding.
Important Notes
When evaluating Somali cats under the ICCF system, judges emphasize harmony, color quality, and coat texture. Kittens may show softer fur and less pronounced ticking, which develops fully by 18 months. Breeders must maintain genetic health, proper tail and jaw structure, and avoid any defects. Only ICCF-registered cats meeting all standards may participate in shows or breeding.
Conclusion
According to ICCF standards, the Somali cat embodies elegance, natural grace, and expressive color. Its semi-long ticked coat, fox-like tail, and intelligent personality make it both beautiful and companionable. Only cats with verified ICCF documentation confirming breed purity may compete or breed officially. The ICCF ensures the preservation, purity, and international recognition of this refined and vibrant breed.
