Somali health problems and costs
The health issues a real source ties to the Somali, what each one is, and what it tends to cost, so you can plan ahead.
Last updated: October 2026 · 9 sources · see sources
Health problems linked to the Somali
| Condition | What it is | Related costs |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Named by: PetMD vet-reviewed guide [1] | The cells at the back of the eye slowly wear out, starting with night vision. It isn't painful, but it can lead to blindness. [2] | Cat vet visit (owner bills): $190–$525 [3] |
| Pyruvate Kinase (PK) DeficiencyNamed by: PetMD vet-reviewed guide [1] | Erythrocyte pyruvate kinase deficiency (PK deficiency) is an inherited hemolytic anemia caused by insufficient activity of its namesake regulatory enzyme. [4] | DNA test: $47 [5] |
Costs are national figures from our sourced cost guides, not breed-specific prices. Being on this list doesn't mean a pet will get the condition.
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide to the Somali lists these conditions to know about: Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). [1]
Health screening
The UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory lists 4 DNA health tests for the Somali, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA Rdy) (Abyssinian); Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA rdAc) (Abyssinian); Dilute; Erythrocyte Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK Deficiency). [6] One health test costs $47 there. [5]
What to budget
Breed-specific cat bills aren't published, but a routine vet visit for any cat typically runs $190–$525. [3]
Lifetime cost, roughly. Our yearly estimate for an adult Somali at US-average prices, before insurance, is $800–$1,300. Multiply that by a life expectancy of 11–16 years and you get roughly $8,800–$21,200 over a lifetime, before inflation and before any major illness. The low end is the ASPCA's yearly cost of care; the high end adds one typical vet bill a year. [3][7] It's simple math on sourced figures, not a quote.
Insurance and savings
The average accident and illness policy cost $435 a year for a cat in the US in 2025. [8] Timing matters more than the price. A condition that shows up before you enroll is usually treated as pre-existing and isn't covered. [9]
Prefer saving instead? Putting money aside each month works too; see insurance vs a savings fund.
Common questions
What health problems are common in the Somali?
Based on PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide, the conditions to know about are progressive retinal atrophy and pyruvate Kinase Deficiency. That doesn't mean every Somali will get them.
How much are vet bills for a Somali?
Breed-specific cat bills aren't published. A routine vet visit for any cat typically runs $190–$525 (VetReceipt owner bills).
Should I get pet insurance for a Somali?
It's a personal call. The average accident and illness policy was $435 a year in 2025 (NAPHIA). If you want it, enroll while your pet is young and healthy, because conditions found before enrollment are usually excluded.
How long does a Somali live?
PetMD gives a life expectancy of 11–16 years.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.
Sources (9) — tap to show
- PetMD – Somali cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- OFA – Eye certification
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Erythrocyte Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PK Deficiency)
- UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Cat DNA test prices (effective Aug 3, 2026)
- UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Somali DNA tests
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- RealVetCost – Feline diabetes treatment cost