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Cheap Somali Cat Pet Insurance

Somali cat

The Somali cat is a long-haired breed believed to have originated from Abyssinian breeding programmes in the early 20th century, likely in England. Genetic studies suggest that breeders, short on Abyssinian stock, used long-haired cats in their lines, especially during the aftermath of World Wars I and II when many breeds faced extinction. The first recognised Somali in the United States can be traced back to Raby Chuffa of Selene, a British Abyssinian who arrived in 1953. Many American and Canadian Somalis share this lineage.

Some Abyssinian breeders were not keen on these long-haired versions of their sleek cats and wanted to avoid the name "Longhaired Abyssinian". Evelyn Mague, an early American Somali breeder, chose the name "Somali", inspired by the fact that Somalia borders Ethiopia (formerly Abyssinia).

Somalis are closely related to Abyssinians, sharing the same playful, intelligent, and curious nature, with the main difference being their long, fluffy coats. The Somali's coat is not like most long-haired breeds that shed constantly; instead, they shed in a seasonal "blow" once or twice a year, making them relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming compared to Persians or other long-haired cats.

Somalis are often called "fox cats" due to their bushy tails and ruddy coats. Their fur is "ticked", a unique variation of tabby markings. While some Somalis may show faint tabby stripes, this is seen as a flaw in show cats, with the only acceptable tabby marking being the traditional 'M' on their forehead. They also have dark rims around their eyes, giving them a striking, almost "kohl-eyed" appearance.

If you’re looking for a cat that will sit quietly on your lap, a Somali may not be for you. They are highly active and inquisitive, often getting into everything around the house. While affectionate, they prefer being nearby rather than on you. These lively, intelligent, and determined cats are curious about every detail of your life and are known for their tenacity and gentle but persistent personalities.

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*Price per month for cover based on a dog, Timothy, aged 2 months, no known medical conditions, up-to-date vaccinations, and microchipped. Based on quote data provided by Seopa Ltd during January 2024. The quote price you could achieve is dependent on your individual circumstances.

The insurance comparison service here is being provided by Seopa Ltd, who are regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA FRN 313860)

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