Abyssinian

The Abyssinian, originally from Ethiopia, is one of the oldest cat breeds and genetically similar to the Somali. It stands out for its short coat with reddish, cinnamon or blue bands, muscular and agile body, large ears and almond-shaped eyes. It is an active, curious, intelligent and sociable cat, which makes it a very entertaining companion.

General details

The Abyssinian cat is a medium-sized breed with a long, muscular body. Males usually weigh between 4.5 and 5.5 kg, while females weigh between 4 and 4.5 kg. They range in height from 20 to 25 centimeters, and have a body length of 28 to 36 centimeters. The life expectancy of the Abyssinian is generally 14-17 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Breed history in brief

The Abyssinian, originally from Ethiopia, is one of the oldest cat breeds and is known for its elegance and agility. It was introduced to Europe in the 19th century, where it began to refine and perfect its distinctive characteristics. Its recognition as a unique breed is due to its particular coat pattern and its resemblance to the cats depicted in ancient Egyptian art. Abyssinians were officially registered as a breed in England in 1882 and quickly became popular in Europe and North America. In the 1930s, the breed's development in the United States allowed it to quickly become a favorite, thanks to its expressive eyes, unique coat pattern and charming personality. Today, the Abyssinian maintains its place as one of the most beloved and recognized cat breeds in the world.

Breed characteristics

The Abyssinian is elegant and muscular, with a slender, agile body, slightly longer than tall. Its limbs are long and well muscled, and its chest is deep with an arched back that gives it an athletic appearance. The head is moderately wedge-shaped, with large, almond-shaped eyes in shades of gold or green, and large, broad ears at the base. The tail is long and slender, carried erect when active and relaxed at rest. Its coat is short, dense and silky, with a mottled pattern of various shades such as reddish, cinnamon, blue and beige. Abyssinians are intelligent, curious, energetic, active and playful, enjoying interaction with their owners and other animals. They are affectionate and loyal, but can also be independent.

Common health problems

The Abyssinian breed is generally in good health, although it can be susceptible to certain disorders. Common diseases include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, feline neonatal isoerytholysis, progressive retinal atrophy, hyperthyroidism and hypersensitivity syndrome. They may also be prone to kidney problems such as renal amyloidosis and pyruvate kinase deficiency anemia.