MAIN Home Life Pets Cats & Kittens Abyssinian

Where did Abyssinians get their distinctive appearance?

The most popular notion compares the cat's long, strong, elegant physique to cats depicted in early Egyptian art, concluding that it has all the earmarks of that country's provenance.

Adding to the mystique. Abys were first bred in the mid-to-late 19th century when a cat by the name of Zulu (brought back from the region by a British soldier), was said to be the first to establish the modern breed. More recent genetic studies, however, point more likely to the coastal region of the Indian Ocean and South East Asia.

Today, it may be fun & entertaining to believe in the far-off connections with ancient Egypt, yet the exact truth of where and when the first Abyssinian came to be remains lost in the mists of time.

Behavior & Personality

With their ever-playful personalities and very low boredom threshholds, Abys are - despite their regal appearance - more dog-like in behavior than most other cat breeds. Intelligent and energetic, the Abyssinian requires lots of stimulation and exercise, although for most owners that is not hard to do since these cats are generally a delight to be around.

They are not necessarily cuddly, but watch as they scale the heights of a household, turn on water spouts, or open doors by themselves. Petty thievery is also often performed out in the open - if only to see your alarmed reaction.

Care & Health

High protein foods are often recommended for the very active, playful Abyssinian. Abys suffer from relatively few health concerns, although gum disease is a common ailment best prevented by occasional servings of dry feed to prevent gingivitis.

Abyssinians also have been known to develop PRA or progressive retina atrophy, an hereditary eye disease which if left untreated may lead to impaired vision and eventual blindness.

More information about Abys around the Web:

Abyssinian Club - A worldwide community of Abyssinian lovers with extensive information on their breeding, cats in show, habits & behavior, plus how to's on selection, care & nutrition, and photo galleries of Abyssinian cats & kittens.

Abyssinian Cat Rescue - Lost, abandoned, or Abyssinians who can no longer be cared for - with how to's on identifying the breed, photo gallery, online adoption application form, and tips on introducing Abys into a new home.

Abyssinian Cat Association - UK organization featuring news & photos, breeders list & contact info, member sign-up, related links.

Abyworld - All about Abys with descriptions of their personality & behavior, a list of kittens available from an international breeders list, message board, photo galleries.

Mango Madness - Hard-to-resist photos of Mango the Abyssinian in action, including recent news, wallpapers, related links.