Abyssinian Cat Breed

Abyssinian

Because of its coat that appears ticked, the Abyssinian is a domesticated cat breed that is unique. The actual place of origin of this species is still not confirmed, many people believe that it originated from Ethiopia. Over the passage of time, the Abyssinian has remained able to secure its foothold as one of the most common feline pets in the United States.

Origin

As the name 'Abyssinian' is of Ethiopian origin, people deduce it to be a native of that place. However, several stories suggest that the cat may be of Egyptian origin. Another camp of researchers, with the aid of genetic engineering has deciphered origins of this breed in the coastal regions of the Indian Ocean. Their theory speculates the breed to be collected from traders dealing in wild animals while the official breeding was done in Great Britain.

Another belief, though not solid enough, relate this species to one single Egyptian female named Zula who was retrieved from Alexandria by a British soldier in 1868. No evidence backs up this fact. The first Abyssinian listed in 1882 can not be related to Zula officially.

Appearance

The wedgy and broad head of the Abyssinian has oversized and pointed ears. The cat has legs that are slender when compared to the body and small round paws. With supple and strong bodies the Abyssinian is a small cat with long legs.

Coat and colors

The medium-lengthened coat is dense and silky. Each hair has three or four darker-colored bands with a basic color. Lighter at the root, it has the darker "ticking" color at the tip.

The original Abyssinian coat or the 'Ruddy' is known as the 'Usual' in the United Kingdom. It consists of warm reddish-brown base and black ticking.

The passage of time has seen the evolvement of various other colors, but the markings are more or less similar. The back part of their hind legs as well as the pads always tends to be darker than the rest of the coat. The Blue ones of this breed feature a light beige body color whereas the Fawn type has it light-cream colored.

Not recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association, Silver Abyssinians also exist. Purely Silver Abyssinians are not desired because of tan patches in the coat, any spots in the coat are more visible that way.

Kittens are born with lighter coats that get darker on maturity.

Temperament

Abyssinians are intelligent and playful. Very popular among owners and breeders, they are extremely successful show cats although some tend to shy away from public.

The Abyssinian needs a loving family to be with as depression without proper attention is common in this species. Abyssinians are also very capable hunters. This playful breed loves toys.

Common Ailments and Diseases

As the cat can be prone to gingivitis, brushing of teeth is necessary. Renal amyloidosis, a type of kidney disorder, has been seen in Abyssinians. Blindness is also an issue.

The Abyssinian is a domesticated cat breed that is unique because of its coat that appears ticked. Over the passage of time, the Abyssinian has remained able to secure its foothold as one of the most common feline pets in the United States.

As the name 'Abyssinian' is of Ethiopian origin, people deduce it to be a native of that place. With strong and supple bodies the Abyssinian is a small cat with long legs.

The Abyssinian needs a loving family to be with as depression without proper attention is common in this species.