Abyssinian

abyssinian cat image

Abyssinians are elegant, medium-sized cats with a strong, lithe body and slender legs. They have a rounded head, with characteristic small tufts at the tips of the ears and large, almond-shaped eyes. Its short, close-fitting coat has a very characteristic appearance.

Summary

Breed Origin:
Ethiopia
Life Span:
9 - 15+ years
Average Weight:
9 - 17 lbs
Hair quantity:
General health:
Sociable:

History

Although the origin of the breed is considered to be directly traced to the Nile Valley, it actually developed in Great Britain. In the 1860s, after a military expedition to Abyssinia, Lord Robert Napier introduced a cat to the United Kingdom. That cat was baptized with the name of Zulu, and was the base of the beautiful race known today as Abyssinian. The unique ticking pattern of Abyssinian fur was reminiscent of the camouflage pattern of wild rabbit fur. This trait was so charming that Zulu was crossed with mongrel cats with fur similar to his own, and this is how the breed was created.

The breed itself was extremely popular, and Abyssinian cats were soon being bred throughout Europe, as well as in the United States and Canada. This popularity turned out to be the salvation of the race, since the two world wars were on the verge of decimating it in Europe. New Abyssinians were imported and the breed continued. In the late 1960s, when the feline leukemia virus nearly destroyed the breed again in the UK, new Abyssinians were introduced to the UK to reestablish the breed.

Personality

Although he is active, he is an easy cat to have at home, he is affectionate, affectionate and loves to spend time with his owners. They love people and other animals. They will play with their toys for hours, but they also enjoy a good time of interactive play with their owners. They will “speak” in a soft, calm voice. Although Abyssinian hair is easy to care for, this cat likes to be combed or rubbed with a chamois cloth. He will reward you with an affectionate purr.

Living with an Abyssinian cat

Abyssinians are active cats and will generally keep their weight in check by exercising to compensate. They should have tall shelves and cat trees that allow them to jump and climb.

They are sociable cats who like to have company. This company can be another cat or pet when no one is home.

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