| Country of Origin: | Ethiopia/Egypt |
| Colors: | Ruddy, blue, chocolate, lilac, cinnamon and fawn. |
| Average Size: | Weight: 9 – 16 lbs (4- 7 Kg), Length: Small to Medium |
| Life Span: | 9 to 15 years |
| Coat: | Ticked |
| Personality: | Extroverted, playful, very atheletic, wilful and intelligent. |
| Characteristics: | Energy: High Talkative: High Kid Friendly: Yes Less Allergic: No |
Abyssinian is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world and one of the most popular as well. As it is the case with many other older cat breeds, the origin of the Abyssinian cats is not quite clear. Some say that this cat breed origins from the valley of Nile (Egypt) as these cats have exactly the same body type as cats whose paintings and sculptures appear in the art of ancient Egypt. This cat breed appeared for the first time in Europe in 1868 when British soldiers who were returning from the war in Ethiopia, brought to England one such cat named Zula.
These cats were known under a number of different names, including “rabbit cat”, most likely because their fur was similar to rabbit fur. In France, even now the reddish fur color is a standard for this cat breed, while in the UK the normal fur color for Abyssinian cats is a rich golden brown color with black stripes on fur. Reddish/standard Abyssinian cats are genetically black cats, and the “reddening” is a given hereditary gene for red color. This group of genes modifies the orange color therefore these cat breeds get that natural burgundy color.
Abyssinian is a medium-sized cat, slender, and with long legs. The muzzle is slightly elongated, not pointed, has a strong chin and nose of medium length, slightly curved in profile. The ears are large, spaced and slightly rounded at the top. Eyes are almond-shaped, spaced, green, yellow, or hazel. Unfortunately, those beautiful eyes can suffer from hereditary problems of retinal atrophy and blindness which is more common in dogs than in cats. The tail is long, gradually tapering towards the top.
It is also the most expensive cat breed, mostly because Abyssinian cats give birth to maximum of four kittens, and they reportedly give birth to more males than females.
This is a very mild and affectionate cat breed- though not quite ready to share its home with other cats. Due to their active nature, Abyssinian cats prefer to be outdoors. Keeping them constantly indoors makes them nervous. Because of this, this at breed is recommended to people who have big yards with plenty of room. By nature these cats are lively, curious, restless and intelligent. If still when kitten this cat breed is used to the leash, owners can walk with them like with dogs. Abyssinian cats have a strong need for man’s society, closeness and care. When it comes to their care and hygiene, it is quite simple – it is suggested that dead hair is regularly removed and combed.
When I read about the Abyssinian cat in a Patricia Cornwell book, I thought that it has weird characteristics but as I got to know this kind of cat, I understand where it got its exceptional intelligence and playfulness. Like most extroverts, they need social interactions and a lot of activities. Without these, they get depressed. Its roots are not clearly established but usually point to Egypt where there are a lot of structures created which look like the Abyssinian cat. Aside from its intelligence, I love its very expressive eyes. The color varies from gold, hazel, green, or copper.