Why does the Somali look like a longhaired Abyssinian who found extra floof DLC?

The Somali is literally the longhaired mutation of the Abyssinian. It's not a coincidence-they share the same genetic foundation. The recessive longhair gene appeared in Abyssinian lines in the mid-20th century, and breeders decided to develop it into a separate breed rather than cull it.

Step by step: First, both breeds have the same ticked tabby coat pattern, which gives that warm, shimmering look. Second, the Somali's body structure-slender, muscular, with large ears and almond-shaped eyes-is identical to the Abyssinian's. The only difference is the medium-long, silky coat, which makes the Somali look like an Abyssinian that unlocked the "extra floof" DLC. It's all genetics, not a design choice.