The Somali shows firm muscle tone and is lithe and panther-like in activity showing a lively interest in all surroundings. Medium length, lithe and graceful, showing well-developed muscular strength without coarseness. The cat is solid to the feel, and the rib cage is rounded with no evidence of flat sides. The back is slightly arched giving the appearance of a cat about to spring. The flank shall be reasonably level without tuckup.
Conformation strikes a medium between the extremes of cobby and svelte lengthy type.
Proportion and general balance to be desired more than mere size. The legs are muscular without coarseness. The Somali stands well off the ground and the length of the leg should be in proportion with the length of the body. The feet are oval and compact. When stroked the cat gives the impression of standing on tip toe.