Abyssinian and Somali

Abyssinian has ancient origin, but it is still uncertain. Abyssinian is so called because the first cat showed at a feline exposition in Great Britain (when he was officially recognized in 1882) came from Abissinia, even if recent genetic studies demonstrate that they are native to Indian Ocean Coast or to South East Asiatic.

Somali is an Aby with long coat. During the ‘900, with the two world wars, the number of Abyssinian reduced considerably and, in order to preserve them, they used long coat cats for matings. The long coat gene wasn’t seen in the course of the generations, so if at the beginning the long coat kittens weren’t registered, then they decided to recognized Somalis distinct from Abyssinians. Just at the end of 1970 Somalis were officially recognized and they were so called by analogy with neighbourhood of two African States.

Character

Somali and Abyssinian have the same character. They are cats very agile, active and lively, able to take a leap just where you shouldn’t think….

Being cats very curious and intelligent, they love look at all is around them, and to take part actively in the family life. They are clever plunderers, even if they are very kind, always ready to purr. They are very sociable and don’t love to remain alone for a too long time. They live easily together with other cats or dogs.